Riyadh Air’s Ambitious Expansion: Considering 50 Widebody Jets from Boeing or Airbus
Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s fast-growing national carrier, is reportedly evaluating a significant order of up to 50 widebody aircraft from aerospace giants Boeing and Airbus. This potential deal highlights the airline’s aggressive growth strategy as it seeks to establish itself as a leading player in global aviation. The move aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, an economic diversification plan aimed at reducing the kingdom’s reliance on oil and positioning it as an international business and tourism hub.
Strategic Fleet Expansion to Support Vision 2030
Launched in 2023, Riyadh Air is backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), which aims to boost the kingdom’s aviation sector and transform Riyadh into a global transit hub. In March 2023, Riyadh Air announced an impressive order of up to 72 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, with 39 confirmed purchases and options for an additional 33. This deal was part of a broader agreement involving Saudi national carriers, marking the fifth-largest commercial order in Boeing’s history by value.
In October 2024, the airline further strengthened its fleet by placing a firm order for 60 Airbus A321neo aircraft. The acquisition of these narrowbody jets was aimed at optimizing Riyadh Air’s operational efficiency while enabling it to expand its regional and international routes. These aircraft are scheduled for delivery starting in 2026, reinforcing the airline’s ambition to connect Riyadh to over 100 destinations worldwide by 2030.
Evaluating New Widebody Aircraft: Boeing vs. Airbus
Now, Riyadh Air is contemplating another bold move by considering the purchase of 50 additional widebody jets. Industry insiders suggest that the airline is evaluating Boeing’s 777X and Airbus’s A350-1000 models, both of which offer advanced fuel efficiency, long-range capabilities, and passenger comfort—essential for Riyadh Air’s long-haul operations.
This strategic fleet expansion reflects Riyadh Air’s vision of becoming a key player in the competitive global aviation market, directly competing with established Gulf carriers like Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad. A decision regarding the widebody aircraft order is expected in the first half of 2025, with negotiations likely focusing on pricing, delivery timelines, and support services.
Challenges Amid Rapid Expansion
While Riyadh Air’s growth trajectory appears promising, the airline faces several challenges, particularly concerning aircraft delivery schedules. The airline had initially planned to receive eight Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners in 2025. However, due to global supply chain disruptions and production delays, the delivery schedule has been revised, with only four aircraft expected to arrive in 2025. This setback has pushed the airline’s commercial launch from early 2025 to the third quarter of the year.
Such delays are not unique to Riyadh Air, as both Boeing and Airbus have been grappling with supply chain bottlenecks post-pandemic, affecting production rates and delivery schedules globally. Nevertheless, Riyadh Air remains optimistic, leveraging its strong government backing and strategic partnerships to navigate these hurdles effectively.
Riyadh Air’s Role in Saudi Arabia’s Aviation Ecosystem
Riyadh Air’s expansion is a key pillar of Saudi Arabia’s broader aviation strategy, which aims to triple passenger traffic to 330 million annually and increase the number of international destinations from Saudi airports to over 250 by 2030. The airline is also expected to play a critical role in boosting tourism, supporting the kingdom’s goal of attracting 100 million visitors annually as part of Vision 2030.
Moreover, Riyadh Air is focused on sustainability. The airline plans to operate a modern, fuel-efficient fleet, reducing carbon emissions in line with global aviation standards. This commitment is evident in its selection of next-generation aircraft like the Boeing 787-9 and Airbus A321neo, which are designed with advanced technologies to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
Looking Ahead: A Promising Future
As Riyadh Air continues to expand its fleet and route network, the airline is poised to reshape the global aviation landscape. Its strategic aircraft acquisitions, combined with Saudi Arabia’s ambitious economic reforms, position Riyadh Air as a formidable competitor in international air travel.
The upcoming decision on the 50 widebody aircraft order will not only influence Riyadh Air’s growth trajectory but also have significant implications for Boeing and Airbus as they vie for one of the most lucrative deals in recent aviation history. As the airline prepares for its commercial launch, all eyes will be on Riyadh Air to see how it navigates the challenges and opportunities in the dynamic aviation industry.
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