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Saudi Arabia’s new national carrier prepares for launch with a strategic global fleet expansion.

PARIS, France — Riyadh Air, the new national airline of Saudi Arabia, has signed an agreement for up to 50 Airbus A350-1000 aircraft at the 55th Paris Air Show, marking a major step toward its operational debut in 2025.

The deal includes 25 firm orders with purchase rights for an additional 25 aircraft. The signing ceremony took place at Paris–Le Bourget Airport, attended by His Excellency Yasir Al-Rumayyan, Governor of the Public Investment Fund (PIF) and Chairman of Riyadh Air; CEO Tony Douglas; and Airbus executives including EVP Sales Benoît de Saint-Exupéry and Commercial Aircraft CEO Christian Scherer.

The A350-1000s will support Riyadh Air’s ambition to serve over 100 destinations globally by 2030, providing ultra long-haul connectivity through its base in the Saudi capital. With this order, Riyadh Air’s fleet commitment now stands at up to 182 aircraft.

“With its outstanding range, adding the Airbus A350-1000 to our fleet demonstrates the strategic positioning of Saudi Arabia as a global aviation hub,” said H.E. Yasir Al-Rumayyan. 

The A350-1000, one of Airbus’ most advanced widebody aircraft, offers a range of more than 16,000 kilometres and will include premium cabin features tailored for long-haul comfort. Riyadh Air plans to equip its fleet with advanced digital technologies and world-class entertainment and connectivity systems.

“We are honored to support Riyadh Air’s bold vision with the A350-1000, the world’s most modern and efficient widebody aircraft,” said Christian Scherer, CEO of Airbus Commercial Aircraft. “This partnership reflects our shared commitment to innovation and decarbonization whilst connecting the vibrant Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the world.”

The airline recently received its Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) and unveiled its new cabin interiors, moving steadily toward its first commercial flight later this year.

“Riyadh Air is making significant progress as we move towards our first flight later this year and this agreement is an important statement of intent,” said CEO Tony Douglas. “We play an important role in the evolution of the Saudi aviation ecosystem with the aim to create 200,000 direct and indirect jobs and contribute almost $20 billion to the Kingdom’s non-oil GDP,” he added.

Riyadh Air was established by the Public Investment Fund to support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 economic diversification strategy. It aims to play a pivotal role in the country’s National Transport and Logistics Strategy and the National Tourism Strategy by boosting air connectivity, increasing passenger volumes, and positioning Riyadh as a key international gateway.

Source: Riyadh Air