Saudi Arabia’s ambitious new carrier Riyadh Air has finalized an order for up to 50 Airbus A350-1000 widebody jets at the Paris Air Show, marking its third major fleet acquisition since launching operations earlier this year. The deal, comprising 25 firm orders and 25 options, elevates the airline’s total backlog to 182 aircraft as it prepares to transform Riyadh into a global aviation hub.
Strategic Fleet Composition Takes Shape
The A350-1000 selection complements Riyadh Air’s existing Boeing 787 and Airbus A320neo family orders, creating a balanced three-type fleet optimized for both long-haul and regional operations. Powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB-97 engines, the aircraft will enable nonstop service to distant markets while supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 economic diversification goals. CEO Tony Douglas emphasized the order represents “an important statement of intent” as the airline builds toward its target of serving over 100 destinations by 2030.
Accelerated Certification and Launch Timeline
Having secured its Air Operator’s Certificate ahead of schedule, Riyadh Air remains on track to commence commercial services in late 2024. The airline’s rapid certification process and aggressive fleet acquisition strategy demonstrate Saudi Arabia’s determination to establish Riyadh as a competitive alternative to established Middle Eastern hubs. Industry analysts note the A350-1000’s 16,100 km range perfectly positions the carrier to connect Asia, Africa and the Americas via Saudi Arabia’s geographic crossroads.
Engine Technology Supports Sustainability Goals
The Trent XWB-97 engines powering Riyadh Air’s A350-1000s deliver 25% better fuel efficiency than previous generation widebodies, aligning with the airline’s commitment to reduce carbon emissions per passenger kilometer by 30% by 2030. Rolls-Royce confirmed the order includes its Engine Health Monitoring system, which will provide real-time performance data to optimize maintenance scheduling and fuel consumption across Riyadh Air’s expanding network.
Competitive Landscape Reshaped
Riyadh Air’s latest order intensifies competition in the long-haul market, with its premium-focused A350 cabins positioned to challenge regional rivals Emirates and Qatar Airways. The airline’s strategy combines:
- State-of-the-art aircraft with premium configurations
- Strategic geographic positioning
- Government-backed infrastructure development
- Aggressive network growth targets
Future Growth and Economic Impact
The A350 acquisition supports Saudi Arabia’s broader aviation ambitions, including plans to increase annual passenger traffic to 330 million by 2030. Riyadh Air projects its operations will create 200,000 direct and indirect jobs while contributing $20 billion to non-oil GDP. With first deliveries expected in 2026, the A350-1000s will form the backbone of the airline’s long-haul expansion, particularly serving key business and tourism routes to North America, Europe and Asia.
Industry Implications
Airbus Chief Commercial Officer Christian Scherer hailed the order as validation of the A350-1000’s capabilities in premium markets. The deal represents another milestone in the growing Middle East aviation sector, with Riyadh Air positioned to capitalize on Saudi Arabia’s $100 billion investment in airport and tourism infrastructure ahead of major events including the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
