Riyadh Air Considering Order for Up to 50 Widebody Jets

Riyadh Air is reportedly in discussions with Airbus and Boeing for a potential widebody aircraft order of up to 50 jets, as the airline moves forward with its fleet expansion. According to Bloomberg, the Saudi carrier has issued a request for proposal (RFP) for Airbus A350-1000s and Boeing 777X jets, with a decision expected soon to secure production slots.

In mid-2024, Riyadh Air’s Chief Financial Officer Adam Boukadida confirmed the airline was evaluating aircraft with 300+ passenger capacity. If finalized, this would mark the carrier’s third major aircraft order.

Previously, Riyadh Air placed a March 2023 order for 39 Boeing 787-9s, with options for an additional 33, followed by an order for 60 Airbus A321-200Ns in 2024. The new widebody deal could include firm orders and options, with up to half the total order potentially designated as options.

Riyadh Air plans to launch operations in Q3 2025 but has yet to secure its air operator’s certificate (AOC) from Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA). The carrier also faces delivery adjustments, as Boeing has reduced its expected 787-9 deliveries for Riyadh Air from eight to four in 2025. The airline expects to take delivery of these aircraft later this year.

The widebody expansion aligns with Riyadh Air’s global growth strategy, supporting its ambition to become a leading international airline.

Related News: https://airguide.info/category/air-travel-business/airline-finance/

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com