Riyadh Air is set to expand its network of partnerships with established carriers worldwide as Saudi Arabia’s newest airline aims to build global ties ahead of its market debut next year.
Riyadh Air is assembling a fleet to tap into the substantial travel demand in Saudi Arabia.
The airline, owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, is close to announcing an accord with a major Southeast Asian carrier in the coming days, according to sources familiar with the plan. Riyadh Air is also negotiating agreements with an Indian carrier for long-haul flights and a US airline, said the sources, who requested anonymity as the discussions are private.
Riyadh Air will start operations in mid-2025, aiming to reclaim market share from regional giants like Emirates and Qatar Airways. Saudi Arabia, with its population of over 36 million and a growing tourism industry, offers a substantial market. Riyadh Air is assembling a fleet to tap into this potential travel demand.
The partnerships will enable Riyadh Air to leverage the extensive networks of its partners, providing feeder services into those destinations. The airline has already established agreements with Turkish Airlines, which serves more destinations than any other carrier, and has an existing accord with Saudia, the national flag carrier.
The partnerships will enable Riyadh Air to leverage the extensive networks of its partners, providing feeder services into those destinations.
Riyadh Air has placed orders for 39 Boeing 787s with options for an additional 33 jets. The airline is also looking to acquire narrowbody and additional widebody jets to scale up its short-haul services.
