The biennial Paris Air Show is here once again, and Airbus has already logged orders from multiple airlines following the close of the first day.
Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s second flag carrier, plans to launch service some time in the later half of 2025. With orders for 72 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, and up to 60 Airbus A321neo family aircraft, the airline has announced an order for 25 Airbus A350-1000 aircraft with options for an additional 25 units.
“This order marks a significant step forward in building a world-class airline that reflects the ambitions of Vision 2030. The A350-1000 will bring outstanding efficiency and comfort to our fleet, supporting our sustainability goals and enabling Riyadh Air to offer a premium experience while connecting Saudi Arabia to the world,” said Adam Boukadida, Chief Financial Officer of Riyadh Air.
“It’s a clear signal of our intent to shape the future of air travel and contribute meaningfully to the Kingdom’s fast-growing aviation ecosystem.”
Prior to the announcement, Riyadh Air looked at either the Airbus A350 or Boeing 777X as its flagship aircraft, eventually choosing to go with the safer bet as the 777X has yet to be certified, and with a backlog of over 540 aircraft, it would only make more sense to go with what is already in production.
When Riyadh Air enters service, they will first launch operations within the region, but have plans of quickly expanding internationally. For now, they have leased a single Boeing 787-9 from Oman Air, using the aircraft as a training tool, operating several test flights to destinations such as Athens, Paris, Cairo, Mumbai, Abu Dhabi and Istanbul.
I suspect we will see them flying to more destinations as they continue preparations for commercial service.
It is not clear yet when they will take delivery of the first A350, but it is expected to be a step above the Dreamliner, as the 787 will only offer business and economy class seating, while the A350 will most likely have a proper first class cabin.
