Riyadh Air to Begin Test Flights as It Prepares for Launch
Saudi Arabia’s new national carrier, Riyadh Air, is set to operate its first non-commercial flight on September 12, 2024. The flight, which will travel from Riyadh to Jeddah, marks a key milestone in the airline’s journey to secure its Air Operators Certificate (AOC) from the Kingdom’s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA).
This inaugural flight, designated as RX5001, will depart from King Khalid International Airport (RUH) in Riyadh and arrive at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, with an estimated flight duration of 90 minutes. The completion of this flight is a crucial step in Riyadh Air’s certification process, allowing it to commence both passenger and cargo operations once the AOC is granted.
Riyadh Air, a subsidiary of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund and a sister airline to Saudia, was launched by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in March 2023. The new carrier is a key component of the Kingdom’s broader ‘Vision 2030’ plan, which aims to transform Saudi Arabia into a global aviation hub. This plan envisions expanding the country’s connectivity to over 250 destinations and tripling annual passenger traffic to 330 million by 2030.
The airline has ambitious plans to begin regular services in 2025, operating a fleet of Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners. Riyadh Air has already placed orders for 39 of these aircraft, with options for an additional 33. The selection of the Dreamliner suggests a focus on medium and long-haul routes, potentially including destinations not served by Saudia.
Over the next few months, Riyadh Air will conduct additional test flights, both domestic and international, to complete its certification process. While specific future routes have not yet been disclosed, the carrier’s strategic focus on new, unserved markets is evident.
In a recent social media statement, Riyadh Air expressed gratitude to key partners for their support during the certification process. Acknowledgments were made to GACA for its regulatory oversight, Saudia for leasing the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner for the test flight, Riyadh Airports Company for logistical support, and Saudia Technic for aircraft maintenance.
The new carrier has also been active in establishing international partnerships to build a strong market presence from the outset. In June 2024, Riyadh Air signed agreements with Singapore Airlines and Air China. Additionally, in early September 2024, the airline announced a multi-layer commercial agreement with Virgin Atlantic. Other notable partnerships include agreements with Delta Air Lines and Turkish Airlines. These collaborations focus on interline connectivity, codeshare arrangements, frequent flyer programs, cargo services, and customer experience enhancements.
Riyadh Air’s partnerships extend to third-party suppliers, incorporating digital innovations in reservations and distribution systems, flight operations efficiencies, and the use of sustainable aviation fuel to lower carbon emissions.
As Riyadh Air prepares for its official launch, its strategic alliances and fleet expansion are expected to play a crucial role in establishing its presence in the competitive global aviation market.
Related news: https://airguide.info/?s=Riyadh+Air
Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, Riyadh Air