Saudia Group has announced the largest aircraft deal in Saudi aviation history with Airbus. The agreement encompasses 105 confirmed aircraft, including the A320neo and A321neo models. These aircraft will be distributed between Saudia and flyadeal, the group’s low-cost carrier. Saudia will acquire 54 A321neo aircraft, while flyadeal will receive 12 A320neo and 39 A321neo aircraft.
“Saudia has ambitious operational objectives to meet growing demand,” said H.E. Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General, Saudia Group. “We are increasing flights and seat capacity across our existing 100+ destinations on four continents, with plans for further expansion. The progress of Saudi Vision 2030 is attracting more visits, tourists, entrepreneurs, and pilgrims each year. This motivated our decision to secure this significant deal, which will create jobs, increase local content, and contribute to the national economy.”
The new aircraft directly support Saudia Group’s objectives to connect the world with the Kingdom, aligning with several key pillars of Saudi Vision 2030. These include the transportation and logistics objective to increase guests’ capacity to 330 million and expand destinations to 250 by 2030, and the tourism objective to attract 150 million visits by 2030.
“The new additions of the A320neo family aircraft will play a vital role in contributing to Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030 plan,” said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Executive Vice President Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business, Airbus. “It will enable Saudia Group’s strategy to advance the Kingdom’s aviation capabilities while enabling both airlines to benefit from the A320neo family’s exceptional efficiency, superior economics, highest level of passenger comfort as well as lower fuel-burn and emissions.”
Meanwhile, Saudia has also unveiled its largest-ever investment in guest experience. This includes a first-of-its-kind AI-powered ‘Travel Companion’ to support customers through trip planning to after-sales support. Business class cabins will be transformed into luxurious, privacy-focused suites that convert into flat beds, progressively rolling out across both existing and new fleets. Guests can also stay connected with high speed inflight connectivity and enjoy unparalleled entertainment with the highest-definition screens soon to be onboard.
