Saudia Boosts Fleet and Unveils New Livery in Push for Tourism Growth

Saudia, the national airline of Saudi Arabia, is set to expand its fleet with 20 Airbus A321neo aircraft by 2026, aligning with the Saudi aviation strategy to attract approximately 330 million visitors by 2030. This expansion is part of Saudia’s ambitious efforts to support the country’s tourism sector and meet the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.

The airline recently revealed a refreshed livery that incorporates shades of green, blue, and sand, symbolizing Saudia’s commitment to innovation and sustainability. This new design will be featured on the existing fleet and the newly ordered aircraft, reflecting the airline’s vision to enhance the passenger experience and showcase Saudi Arabia’s rich heritage to the world.

Captain Ibrahim Koshy, CEO of Saudia, emphasized the airline’s dedication to acquiring advanced aircraft to ensure superior guest experiences and contribute to sustainable aviation. He highlighted Saudia’s successful operational performance in the first half of 2023, particularly during the Hajj season, with an impressive on-time performance rate of 83.8%.

Saudia’s expansion strategy also includes targeting key international markets, such as China, to bolster its route network. The launch of direct flights to Beijing exemplifies Saudia’s efforts to connect Saudi Arabia with significant global tourist sources, advancing the kingdom’s economic diversification and tourism objectives.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) projects a 126% growth in Saudi Arabia’s air transport market over the next 20 years, potentially adding 54.8 million passenger journeys by 2037. Achieving this growth could generate substantial economic benefits, supporting nearly $82.3 billion in GDP and almost 1.2 million jobs, further underlining the strategic importance of aviation and tourism in the nation’s future.