Riyadh Air to Finalize Deal for More Widebody Aircraft in 2025

Saudi startup airline Riyadh Air has confirmed that it will re-enter negotiations with top aircraft manufacturers for additional widebody aircraft as part of its plans to build a fleet of over 200 aircraft in the coming years.

This announcement follows the airline’s recent order of 60 Airbus A321neo single-aisle aircraft, confirmed during the Future Investment Initiative (FII) 8th Edition Conference in Saudi Arabia on October 30, 2024. The deal was signed by Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air, and Christian Scherer, CEO of Commercial Aircraft at Airbus.

Riyadh Air, which expects to receive its Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) in early 2025, is now focusing on securing either the Boeing 777X or Airbus A350-1000 widebody aircraft. Tony Douglas mentioned that talks with aircraft manufacturers will begin within the next two months, with a final decision expected by the first or second quarter of 2025.

In March 2023, Riyadh Air placed an initial order for 39 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, with an option for another 33, as part of a wider deal involving Saudi Arabia’s national carrier, Saudia. Although Douglas refrained from commenting on the size of any new widebody order, he reiterated Riyadh Air’s goal to operate more than 200 aircraft.

Despite not yet launching commercial flights, Riyadh Air is already generating significant attention within the aviation industry, largely due to its association with Saudia and its role in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 project. This initiative aims to attract millions of visitors to the Kingdom annually, with Riyadh Air playing a crucial part in meeting these ambitious tourism goals.

Riyadh Air’s order for the A321neos, scheduled for delivery between 2026 and 2030, highlights the airline’s growing clout in the market. The airline secured earlier delivery slots through a complex financing deal involving the restructuring of Malaysia’s Capital A and its low-cost carrier, AirAsia’s order book. This has enabled Riyadh Air to move into a favorable order window with Airbus, with Douglas hinting at further aircraft purchases in the future.

Regarding the widebody order, both the Airbus A350-1000 and Boeing 777X offer advantages for Riyadh Air. The A350’s commonality with the A321neo would result in operational savings and synergies, particularly with crew training. However, the 777X would continue Riyadh Air’s partnership with Boeing, following its existing order of 787 Dreamliners. The carrier is yet to decide which aircraft it will select to reach its goal of more than 200 aircraft.

Riyadh Air’s rapid expansion and fleet development signal its determination to become a major player in the global aviation market.

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