Riyadh Air aims for commercial operation by mid-2025

Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s forthcoming airline, is set to commence commercial operations by the middle of 2025, as stated by the airline’s Chief Operating Officer, Peter Bellew. This announcement was made during the Singapore Airshow on Tuesday, underscoring the ambitious timeline for the airline’s debut.

Owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund, Riyadh Air finalized its narrow-body aircraft procurement last November. While specifics regarding the order announcement remain undisclosed, the airline’s leadership is poised to unveil further details imminently.

As the second flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh Air is poised to be headquartered in the nation’s capital, Riyadh. Operating primarily from King Khalid International Airport, the airline intends to offer an extensive network, encompassing both domestic and international routes. With plans to serve over 100 destinations spanning the Middle East and six continents, Riyadh Air aims to carve a prominent presence in the global aviation landscape.

The genesis of Riyadh Air dates back to March 2023 when Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman formally introduced the establishment of the airline, positioning it as the kingdom’s latest national carrier. Notably, Riyadh Air’s initial fleet comprises 39 Boeing 787-9 aircraft, with the possibility of expanding with an additional 33 aircraft, indicative of the airline’s robust growth aspirations.

The strategic positioning of Riyadh Air as a key player in Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector aligns with broader national objectives, underscoring the kingdom’s commitment to fostering economic diversification and enhancing its global connectivity. With the imminent commencement of commercial operations, Riyadh Air stands poised to contribute significantly to the nation’s aviation landscape while offering travelers enhanced connectivity and service options.

As Riyadh Air steers toward its slated commercial debut, stakeholders eagerly anticipate the unfolding developments, poised to witness the emergence of a formidable contender in the global aviation arena, emblematic of Saudi Arabia’s progressive vision for the future of air travel.