Riyadh Air Plans to Expand Fleet to Establish Itself Among Regional Giants
In a bold move to solidify its position in the aviation industry, Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s second flag carrier, is set to bolster its aircraft lineup with additional orders. The CEO of the airline emphasized the need for a “very large fleet” to compete alongside regional giants in the market.
Backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, Riyadh Air ordered 39 Boeing 787-9 jets last year, with options for 33 more, showcasing the airline’s commitment to growth and expansion. This strategic move aligns with Saudi Arabia’s goal to diversify its aviation industry and attract more tourists beyond pilgrimage travel, which currently dominates the country’s inbound tourism sector.
In an interview with Bloomberg Television, CEO Tony Douglas revealed plans for further orders to scale up the airline’s operations. “We need a very large fleet, we’re going to make a number of additional orders,” Douglas stated, hinting at a narrowbody order and a subsequent large order in the pipeline.
Douglas, who brings experience from leading Etihad Airways, expressed concerns about potential delays in aircraft deliveries amid production challenges faced by Boeing and Airbus SE due to high demand and supply issues. Despite these challenges, Riyadh Air remains focused on establishing itself as the second national airline of Saudi Arabia, in line with the country’s economic diversification plan.
With confidence in the growing demand for travel, Douglas emphasized the airline’s organic growth strategy, ruling out mergers and acquisitions. The airline’s initial destinations are set to include major cities in Europe, the US East Coast, and Canada, with the inaugural flight scheduled for June 2025.
As Riyadh Air prepares to secure slots at major airports, including congested hubs like London Heathrow, Douglas acknowledged the challenges ahead but expressed confidence in overcoming them. The airline looks poised to capitalize on Saudi Arabia’s booming economy and increasing tourism influx, setting the stage for its expansion into the competitive aviation market.