Riyadh Air, the upcoming premium airline from Saudi Arabia, is poised to launch in the second half of 2025, marking a significant development in the kingdom’s aviation landscape. Recently, the airline signed a monumental multibillion-dollar contract with Airbus for the acquisition of 60 narrowbody jets during the Future Investment Initiative conference held in Riyadh. Chief Financial Officer Adam Boukadida disclosed that the airline plans to commence operations with three aircraft, subsequently expanding its fleet to over 130 by 2030, despite facing supply chain hurdles primarily linked to delays from U.S.-based Boeing. The inaugural flight destinations are yet to be finalized, as they will depend on the availability of airport slots, which is anticipated to improve once Riyadh Air secures its air operator’s certificate.
Riyadh Air intends to redefine the travel experience by positioning itself as more than just an airline. It aims to operate as a “bespoke” e-commerce platform that empowers passengers to customize their travel arrangements distinctly compared to traditional airlines. This could include booking different cabin classes for various passengers under the same reservation, modifying existing bookings, or even renting Lucid electric vehicles during their stay at various destinations. This innovative approach places Riyadh Air in a unique category, enhancing customer experience and preference over other regional carriers.
As Riyadh Air gears up to compete with prominent regional airlines like Emirates, Etihad, and Qatar Airways, its operational base in Riyadh may provide a strategic advantage. With a population twice that of Dubai and nearly three times that of Qatar, Riyadh has the potential to attract a considerable number of long-haul travelers and future tourists, particularly in light of the kingdom’s growing sports and cultural offerings. The airline anticipates that its expanded service will respond to the demand for more flight options, especially for visitors who currently have to transit through cities like Doha, Abu Dhabi, and Dubai due to the lack of direct flights from Europe and the United States.
Launching a global airline from the ground up presents challenges, particularly in securing slots at busy international airports. Riyadh Air aims to leverage its connection to the Public Investment Fund (PIF), which can facilitate partnerships with other PIF enterprises. This collaboration has already led to agreements with fintech firm noon Payments for online transactions and Almosafer for travel management, enhancing operational capabilities and customer options. Such strategic partnerships may ease some of the challenges associated with entering a competitive market and securing the necessary resources to establish its presence.
Plans for further expansion are already underway, with Riyadh Air’s CEO Tony Douglas indicating that the airline is on the brink of making another significant purchase—this time for wide-body jets. The potential orders include either the Airbus A350-1000 or Boeing 777X, with an announcement expected within a couple of months. Riyadh Air aims to establish a comprehensive network serving over 100 international destinations alongside essential domestic routes, thereby complementing the operations of current airlines like Saudia. The strategy reflects the view that the marketplace in Saudi Arabia can accommodate multiple international carriers, positioning Riyadh Air as a formidable competitor in the global aviation arena.
Ultimately, Riyadh Air represents a transformational shift within Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector, aiming not just to fill a gap in air travel but to emerge as a pioneer in customized travel experiences. By prioritizing passenger needs and maximizing the advantages of being a PIF-backed enterprise, the airline is set to challenge established players and redefine the standards for air travel in the region. As the launch date approaches, the focus will remain on operational preparations, securing partnerships, and solidifying its market position, ensuring Riyadh Air’s ambitious vision comes to fruition in a competitive global airline landscape.