Saudi Arabia’s new national carrier Riyadh Air has finalized an order for up to 50 Airbus A350-1000 widebody aircraft during the Paris Air Show, accelerating its ambitious plan to connect Riyadh with over 100 global destinations by 2030. The deal, comprising 25 firm orders and 25 options, elevates the airline’s total fleet commitment to 182 aircraft as it prepares for its 2025 commercial launch.
Strategic Fleet Composition for Global Reach
The A350-1000 selection complements Riyadh Air’s existing Boeing 787 orders, creating a three-type fleet optimized for long-haul operations. With its 16,000km range capability, the aircraft will enable nonstop service to distant markets while supporting Saudi Arabia’s hosting of mega-events including the 2030 World Expo and 2034 FIFA World Cup. The airline plans to configure the cabins with premium first-class suites alongside its previously revealed business class product, emphasizing luxury travel experiences.
Accelerating Saudi’s Aviation Ambitions
Riyadh Air Chairman His Excellency Rumeyan emphasized the carrier’s role in diversifying Saudi Arabia’s economy under Vision 2030, projecting creation of 200,000 jobs and $20 billion in non-oil GDP contribution. CEO Tony Douglas noted rapid progress toward the 2025 launch, having recently secured its Air Operator Certificate and completed multiple aircraft acquisitions. “This order demonstrates our commitment to building a world-class airline that will transform Riyadh into a global aviation hub,” Douglas stated.
Airbus Partnership Advances Sustainability Goals
Airbus Commercial Aircraft CEO Christian Scherer praised the A350-1000’s alignment with Saudi environmental objectives, highlighting its 25% fuel efficiency advantage over previous generation aircraft. The partnership includes collaboration on sustainable aviation initiatives, supporting Riyadh Air’s commitment to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. The aircraft’s composite airframe and advanced Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines will reduce operating costs while meeting stringent noise regulations.
Economic Transformation Through Aviation
The massive fleet investment positions Riyadh Air as a catalyst for Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification:
- Developing maintenance and training infrastructure
- Expanding tourism and business travel flows
- Establishing Riyadh as a premium transit hub between Europe, Asia and Africa
Industry analysts note the order’s scale reflects Saudi Arabia’s determination to compete directly with regional rivals like Emirates and Qatar Airways in the premium long-haul market.
Future Network Development
With its first aircraft deliveries expected in late 2025, Riyadh Air is prioritizing routes to major business centers including London, New York, Singapore and Shanghai. The airline’s distinctive teal-and-purple livery, revealed last year, will soon become a familiar sight at global hubs as Saudi Arabia executes its plan to transform the kingdom into a leading aviation crossroads.
