Riyadh Air, the new premium international airline, has firmed a substantial order for 60 Airbus A321neo single-aisle aircraft.
This latest acquisition was announced today at the Future Investment Initiative (FII) 8th Edition Conference. It serves to further position the new airline in readiness for its planned 2025 operational commencement.
The agreement was finalized today in Riyadh. It was brokered between Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air, and Christian Scherer, CEO Commercial Aircraft of Airbus. The multibillion-dollar deal positions the airline for efficient flight operations to fulfill its network ambitions of 100 destinations by 2030.
This narrowbody order combines with the original wide-body aircraft order announced in 2023. This will ensure the optimal mix of aircraft to match Riyadh Air’s network growth.
The bulk acquisition is on a scale unprecedented for an airline startup. Riyadh Air has now ordered a total of 132 aircraft to power its growth plans.
Airline Leadership Statements
His Excellency Yasir Al-Rumayyan, PIF Governor and Chairman of Riyadh Air, expressed his delight at this milestone. “We are pleased to embark on another key milestone in Riyadh Air’s journey with the carrier’s second major fleet order, this time in partnership with Airbus.”
“This deal underlines the airline’s ambitious intentions in advance of next year’s launch. It builds a comprehensive international network and establishes Riyadh as a major strategic global aviation hub.”
Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air, further emphasized the positive impact of this latest order. “This order will not only enable us to support economic growth in the aviation industry, it will also ensure Riyadh Air operates one of the most sustainable fleets in the industry.”
“It will be instrumental in helping Saudi Arabia achieve its net-zero emissions goals. This deal strongly reinforces the positive economic impact of Saudi Arabia’s newest airline on both a global and local scale and helps facilitate the fast-growing local aviation ecosystem.”
Christian Scherer, CEO of Commercial Aircraft at Airbus, echoed the sentiment, stating, “We are proud to welcome Riyadh Air as a new Airbus customer and to be a part of its exciting journey.”
“The latest generation A321neo aircraft will bring exceptional efficiency to the airline’s operations and comfort to its passengers. We look forward to working together to support the incredible growth of Saudi aviation.”
Riyadh Air: Targeting Premium Travel Market
Riyadh Air’s vision seeks to redefine the passenger experience with a targeted premium service offering.
In line with this goal, the new airline will incorporate leading-edge digital features, innovative cabin design, and state-of-the-art entertainment and connectivity systems. By prioritizing passenger comfort and satisfaction, Riyadh Air seeks to set new industry standards in the high-end market.
The establishment of Riyadh Air also aligns with the Public Investment Fund’s (PIF) strategic objective of unlocking the potential of promising sectors within Saudi Arabia.
The airline will play a pivotal role in driving economic diversification and fostering sustainable growth. By attracting tourists from around the world to experience Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders, thwill contribute significantly to the nation’s tourism industry.
Furthermore, the airline’s expansion will have a positive impact on the broader aviation ecosystem. By increasing air transport options and cargo capacity, Riyadh Air will facilitate the growth of both domestic and international travel. This will have the flow-on effect of stimulating economic activity and strengthening Saudi Arabia’s position as a global aviation hub.
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