Riyadh Air Eyes Global Partnerships to Expand Network Ahead of Commercial Launch
Riyadh Air is strategically focusing on bolstering international collaborations with airlines to expand its network as it gears up for its commercial debut. This new entrant in the aviation market is in the process of acquiring an air operator’s certificate, with test flights slated to begin later this year, marking a significant milestone towards operational readiness.
In a move to foster a broad-based network, Riyadh Air has already secured collaboration agreements with Saudia, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, and Turkish Airlines in 2023. This approach underscores Riyadh Air’s commitment to establishing a wide-ranging partnership ecosystem rather than aligning with a single airline alliance. “We want to be friends with everyone. It’s better to be United Nations than to be oneworld,” remarked Peter Bellew, the Chief Operating Officer of Riyadh Air, highlighting the airline’s inclusive strategy for network expansion.
One of the key advantages Riyadh Air brings to the table is its modern digital infrastructure. Being a startup allows the airline to leverage the latest in digital systems, facilitating seamless integration with potential airline partners’ infrastructures without the hindrances typically associated with legacy systems. This technological edge is expected to play a pivotal role in streamlining operations and enhancing collaboration efficiencies.
Looking ahead, Riyadh Air is set to announce its inaugural routes by the end of 2024, with commercial services anticipated to commence in mid-2025. The airline is evaluating major regional and European capitals as likely destinations for its launch routes, with significant interest also emerging from Asian markets, particularly China, Indonesia, and Singapore. This interest is buoyed by recent bilateral agreements, such as the expanded air services between Saudi Arabia and Singapore, which envisage increased flight frequencies and the provision for unrestricted fifth-freedom flights.
Riyadh Air’s ambitious fleet expansion plan includes an order for 39 Boeing 787s with options for an additional 72 aircraft. The decision regarding its narrowbody fleet is expected within the next six months. Confidence in the timely delivery of these aircraft is reinforced by assurances from Boeing’s CEO, Dave Calhoun, underlining a solid commitment to meet the delivery schedule.
Riyadh Air’s strategy of establishing a wide network of international partnerships, coupled with its investment in a modern fleet and digital capabilities, positions it as a promising new player in the global aviation industry, poised to contribute significantly to the connectivity and economic growth of Saudi Arabia’s capital.