Riyadh Air Picks Rolls-Royce for A350 Engines
Riyadh Air has taken another major step in its rapid growth strategy by signing a deal with Rolls-Royce to power its newly ordered fleet of Airbus A350-1000 aircraft. The agreement, announced on June 17, 2025, during the Paris Air Show, includes the purchase of 50 Trent XWB-97 engines, solidifying the airline’s commitment to operating a modern, efficient long-haul fleet.
The engine deal follows Riyadh Air’s headline-making announcement a day earlier, on June 16, when it confirmed an order for up to 50 Airbus A350-1000s—including 25 firm orders and purchase rights for 25 more. These new aircraft will join the 132 already on order, positioning the carrier as a major player in global aviation before its maiden flight, expected later in 2025.
The agreement was signed at the air show by Adam Boukadida, Chief Financial Officer of Riyadh Air, and Ewen McDonald, Chief Customer Officer at Rolls-Royce, in the presence of Riyadh Air CEO Tony Douglas and Rolls-Royce CEO Tufan Erginbilgic.
Alongside the engine deal, Riyadh Air and Rolls-Royce signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the TotalCare® services program, which will cover the long-term maintenance, health monitoring, and reliability of the engines.
“The Trent XWB-97 engine is the world’s most efficient large aero-engine, specifically designed for the Airbus A350-1000 and will help fulfill Riyadh Air’s ambitions to fly to over 100 global destinations by 2030,” said the airline in a statement. Riyadh Air highlighted that the A350-1000, powered by these engines, will allow it to expand reach and capacity, connecting Riyadh to key global markets and supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
Adam Boukadida, CFO of Riyadh Air, noted: “The growth of Riyadh Air is of critical importance to the development of Saudi Arabia as an aviation hub. Selecting world-class companies like Rolls-Royce ensures we have the right partners to achieve our ambitions. This deal for 50 Trent XWB-97 engines is hugely significant as it brings us closer to realizing our long-term vision of enhanced global connectivity for Riyadh.”
The Trent XWB-97 is Rolls-Royce’s most powerful and efficient engine for long-haul aircraft, offering reduced emissions and operational cost savings. It is already in service with major global carriers operating the A350-1000, and Riyadh Air will benefit from Rolls-Royce’s £1 billion investment to enhance the durability and efficiency of the entire Trent engine family.
Rob Watson, President of Civil Aerospace at Rolls-Royce, added: “We’re proud to support the ambitious launch of Riyadh Air. The Trent XWB-97 is an exceptional engine, and our TotalCare package will ensure optimal reliability and performance. This partnership reflects our shared commitment to innovation and sustainable aviation.”
The engine and service agreements reflect Riyadh Air’s focus on delivering premium passenger experiences, environmental responsibility, and operational excellence. As Saudi Arabia’s new national carrier, Riyadh Air is positioning itself as a global connector, building a fleet designed for range, efficiency, and luxury travel.
With operations set to launch later in 2025, Riyadh Air is poised to become a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s strategy to boost tourism, economic diversification, and international connectivity.
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