Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s new digitally-native airline, has announced an order for 60 next-generation Airbus A321neo single-aisle aircraft in the latest step towards its inaugural flight in 2025. This adds to the original wide-body aircraft order announced in 2023, ensuring an optimal mix of aircraft to match Riyadh Air’s network growth. On a scale unprecedented for an airline startup, Riyadh Air has ordered a total of 132 aircraft to power its growth plans.
“We are pleased to embark on another key milestone in Riyadh Air’s journey with the carrier’s second major fleet order, this time in partnership with Airbus,” said His Excellency Yasir Al-Rumayyan, PIF Governor and Chairman of Riyadh Air. “This deal underlines the airline’s ambitious intentions in advance of next year’s launch as it builds a comprehensive international network and establishes Riyadh as a major strategic global aviation hub.”
Riyadh Air aims to be a leading airline and will equip its fleet with the latest and most advanced digital features, providing an innovative guest experience that is the best-in-class in terms of aircraft cabin interior design, in addition to the latest generation of entertainment and connectivity systems onboard.
“This order will not only enable us to support economic growth in the aviation industry, it will also ensure Riyadh Air operates one of the most sustainable fleets in the industry and be instrumental in helping Saudi Arabia achieve its net-zero emissions goals,” said Tony Douglas, CEO, Riyadh Air. “This deal strongly reinforces the positive economic impact of Saudi Arabia’s newest airline on both a global and local scale and helps facilitate the fast-growing local aviation ecosystem.”
Christian Scherer, CEO of Commercial Aircraft, Airbus, added: “We are proud to welcome Riyadh Air as a new Airbus customer and to be a part of its exciting journey. The latest generation A321neo aircraft will bring exceptional efficiency to the airline’s operations and comfort to its passengers. We look forward to working together to support the incredible growth of Saudi aviation.”
