Riyadh Air approved to operate US flights

Riyadh Air has secured approval to operate passenger flights to and from the United States, moving the Saudi carrier a step closer to launching North American services as it expands its international network.

The US Department of Transportation (USDOT) granted the airline authority to serve the region, describing the approval as “consistent with the public interest”, according to Reuters. Riyadh Air has also told US regulators it is planning partnerships with at least 10 international airlines, including Delta Air Lines, which is expected to launch flights between Atlanta and Riyadh in October 2026. 

The carrier aims to serve 22 destinations by March 2027 and more than 100 worldwide by 2030. The expansion is supported by the arrival of its first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, with three aircraft now in the fleet. Riyadh Air expects to receive 10 Dreamliners by the end of 2026.

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The approval follows Riyadh Air’s commercial launch earlier this month, with bookings now open for flights to Jeddah, Dubai, Cairo, London, Madrid and Manchester. On 14 June, the carrier operated its first domestic commercial service between Riyadh and Jeddah. 

The airline forms part of Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to diversify its economy through tourism, aviation and logistics. Owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), Riyadh Air is the kingdom’s second national carrier alongside Saudia.

Earlier this year, Riyadh Air opened its first premium lounge at King Khalid International Airport (RUH) and signed a partnership with Mastercard to develop a digital-first payments and rewards ecosystem. The airline is also preparing to launch its Sfeer loyalty programme across its digital platforms, enabling members to share points, qualifying spend and selected benefits with family and friends.

For more information, visit www.riyadhair.com