Both new airlines Riyadh Air and Saudi Arabian Airlines (SAUDIA) have made significant Dreamliner deals with Boeing.
While Riyadh Air will debut its new fleet with up to 72 787-9 Dreamliners, SAUDIA will buy up to 49 787 Dreamliners.
The deal between SAUDIA and the aircraft manufacturer will reportedly cover both the 787-9 and 787-10 models, while Riyadh Air, which is owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) of Saudi Arabia, will buy 39 787-9s with the option to buy an additional 33 787-9s.
In accordance with the contract, SAUDIA will buy 39 787s, with an additional option to buy 10 more in the future.
The two agreements are part of Saudi Arabia’s larger strategic strategy to make the nation a center for international aviation.
On March 14, 2023, SAUDIA and Riyadh Air announced their intention to order up to 121 787 Dreamliners, which would rank as the fifth-largest commercial order in terms of value in Boeing’s history.
“SAUDIA continues its expansion efforts in all aspects of the airline; whether it’s introducing new destinations or increasing the aircraft fleet,” His Excellency Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, director general of SAUDIA Group said. “The agreement with Boeing delivers on this commitment and the newly added aircraft will further enable SAUDIA to fulfill its strategic objective of bringing the world to the Kingdom”.
“Riyadh Air’s commitment to its customers will see the integration of digital innovation and authentic Saudi hospitality to deliver a seamless travel experience,” said Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air. “By positioning the airline as both a global connector and a vehicle to drive tourist and business travel to Saudi Arabia, our new 787-9 airplanes will serve as a foundation for our worldwide operations, as we build the wider network and connect our guests to Saudi Arabia and many destinations around the world.”
More than 50 Boeing aircraft, including the 777-300ER (Extended Range), 787-9, and 787-10 Dreamliner, are presently operated by SAUDIA on its long-haul network.
