Algeria’s Minister of Interior, Local Authorities, and Transport, Said Sayoud, has announced plans to establish a dedicated fleet exclusively for domestic air travel. This initiative aims to significantly improve local air transport and enhance connectivity between the country’s various regions.
In response to questions from members of the Council of the Nation, Minister Sayoud stated that this new fleet will usher in a “qualitative leap in the field of domestic air transport.” He highlighted the addition of 103 new weekly flights, providing over 15,000 additional seats for passengers across various national routes.
Minister Sayoud emphasized the strategic importance of digitalization within the transport sector. He outlined a comprehensive program to digitize services for citizens, particularly in the area of public transport, recognizing its crucial role in improving service quality and operational efficiency. This digitalization drive aims to ensure flexibility, speed, and transparency in financial and administrative processes.
The adoption of electronic payment is a key outcome of this digital transformation. According to Minister Sayoud, 130 land stations have been equipped with electronic payment services, with 66 already operational out of a total of 74 stations nationwide. These stations have processed over 47,000 electronic payment transactions.
Furthermore, the company in charge of managing land transport stations, SOGRAL, has developed the sector’s first digital platform, called “Mahatati” (My Station). Electronic kiosks for purchasing tickets using bank cards have also been installed.
In the realm of urban and suburban transport, Minister Sayoud revealed the development of a new digital platform called “Khidmati” (My Services). This platform will enable citizens to make electronic payments and reduce travel costs and is expected to be operational in the first half of 2026.
Regarding rail transport, the Minister noted that the electronic booking and payment system has been implemented since last October, following a trial period that began in November 2024. Over 5,000 electronic payment transactions have been recorded on the dedicated platform.
Minister Sayoud also announced a project for a unified, multi-modal ticket that can be used on various modes of transport in the capital, including the metro, tramway, cable car, rail, and urban/suburban transport. Algiers will be the first province to implement this pilot project before it is rolled out to other regions.
The Minister concluded by affirming that digitalization and modernization of the transport sector are crucial for Algeria’s development.
