New national carrier takes off after delays, aiming to challenge Gulf aviation giants and boost Riyadh’s global hub ambitions.
Image: Eye Of Riyadh
Saudi Arabia has officially launched its second national airline, Riyadh Air, marking a major step in its Vision 2030 economic transformation plan.
A Boeing 787 Dreamliner in Riyadh Air’s white and lavender livery completed its inaugural London-bound flight early Wednesday, signalling the start of operations after more than a year of delays.
The airline is backed by the Public Investment Fund and is designed to position Riyadh as a global aviation hub, competing with established carriers in Dubai, Doha and Abu Dhabi.
Riyadh Air CEO Tony Douglas said the project aims to bring “glamour and refinement” back to air travel while building a world-class international network.
The launch had been delayed due to aircraft delivery issues from Boeing and broader regional instability linked to ongoing Middle East tensions.
Despite these challenges, the airline plans to expand rapidly, targeting connections to more than 100 global destinations within five years.
Saudi Arabia also plans major aviation expansion, including a new Riyadh airport with capacity for 120 million passengers annually as it seeks to triple total air traffic by 2030.
Owned by the $900 billion Public Investment Fund, Riyadh Air is expected to play a key role in economic diversification efforts and job creation under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030 strategy.
Analysts note that while the airline enters a highly competitive Gulf aviation market, Saudi Arabia’s large domestic passenger base gives it a strong foundation for growth.
