RIYADH AIR
Established: 2023
CEO: Tony Douglas
Slogan: Transforming the future of travel
Riyadh Air is Saudi Arabia’s newest national airline, backed by the country’s powerful Public Investment Fund (PIF). With its main hub at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, the airline is positioned to become a major global carrier, launching commercial operations in 2025.
Fleet and Operations
Fast Facts About Riyadh Air
- Main Hub: King Khalid International Airport, Riyadh
- Fleet (Planned):
72 Boeing 787-9
60 Airbus A321neo
Initial Destinations: 100+ across six continents
Economic Impact: Expected to add $20 billion to non-oil GDP and create over 200,000 jobs
Global Partnerships and Alliances
Riyadh Air is building a wide-reaching network by partnering with major international airlines across both SkyTeam and Star Alliance. Current cooperation agreements include:
Delta Air Lines
China Eastern Airlines
Saudia
Virgin Atlantic
Turkish Airlines
Singapore Airlines
Air China
EgyptAir
These agreements are designed to support codesharing, streamline customer experience, and integrate loyalty programs.
Major Milestones
March 2023: Officially launched by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
June 2023: Revealed its signature Boeing 787-9 livery and received its airline code “RX”.
October 2024: Ordered 60 Airbus A321neo aircraft.
January 2025: Received its first leased Boeing 787-9 for technical and training use.
April 2025: Received final operational approval from Saudi Arabia’s GACA.
Sponsorships and Brand Partnerships
Riyadh Air is quickly building global brand visibility:
Atlético de Madrid: Main shirt sponsor (since August 2023)
CONCACAF: Official airline partner (since August 2024)
Riyadh Air Metropolitano: Naming rights partner of Atlético’s stadium (as of October 2024)
Flight Operations & Route Network
Riyadh Air plans to begin flights in spring 2025, launching with a regional network and rapidly expanding to major cities around the world. With plans to serve 100+ destinations across six continents, it aims to connect Riyadh to the global stage.
Riyadh Air: A Vision for the Future
With strong leadership, strategic alliances, a modern fleet, and an ambitious vision, Riyadh Air is set to redefine aviation in the region and position Saudi Arabia as a key global aviation hub. Its mission aligns with the country’s Vision 2030 goals to diversify the economy and boost non-oil revenue.
