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Launch of Saudi airline now expected in Q3 2025
Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s new premium international airline, has been forced to push back launch from early 2025 to later in the year due to Boeing not meeting aircraft delivery targets.
The airline had been expecting eight 787 Dreamliners, but now expects to receive no more than four this year, according to reports, with deliveries starting in Q3.
The news comes days after Riyadh Air Boeing showcased a leased 787-9 Dreamliner, adorned in the airline’s livery, at King Khalid International Airport. This aircraft will serve as a technical spare and training asset for pilots and crew, and support in the airline’s certification process.
Introducing the aircraft as a technical spare allows Riyadh Air to start services as soon as possible, once the first two B787-9 aircraft are delivered.
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Riyadh Air has an order for 72 aircraft with Boeing, but the American aviation giant continues to struggle with manufacturing and supply chain issues, which have persisted since the pandemic.
Boeing delivered just 348 aircraft in 2024, while its European competitor Airbus handed over 766.
Back in October 2024, Riyadh Air signed an agreement to purchase 60 Airbus A321 neo single-aisle aircraft, bringing its total orders to 132.
“This deal underlines the airline’s ambitious intentions in advance of the launch as it builds a comprehensive international network and establishes Riyadh as a major strategic global aviation hub,” said Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air.
Riyadh Air is integral to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plans and aims to serve more than 100 global destinations by 2030.
For more information, visit www.riyadhair.com
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