Riyadh Air's Ambitious Global Expansion Plans

Riyadh Air, launching commercial flights this year, aims to connect Saudi Arabia globally with over 100 destinations by 2030. The airline plans to partner with Air India and IndiGo, emphasizing the importance of the Indian market. It will boast a diverse fleet, including B787-9 Dreamliners and A321 neos.

Riyadh Air is set to launch its commercial operations this year, with strategic plans to establish partnerships with Indian air carriers such as Air India and IndiGo. CEO Tony Douglas highlighted the significance of the Indian subcontinent market, as the airline gears up for a global expansion.

With aims to connect Saudi Arabia to over 100 destinations worldwide by 2030, Riyadh Air has already partnered with major international airlines, including Singapore Airlines and Virgin Atlantic. The new carrier will utilize a fleet featuring B787-9 Dreamliners and A321 neos, supplemented by extra wide-body aircrafts.

At a media briefing in the capital, Douglas revealed that the Indian tourist influx to Saudi Arabia reached 1.5 million last year. He also noted the large Indian workforce within the airline's current 500 employees. As Riyadh Air prepares its fleet for operation, it reported receiving 1.4 million job applications, with women comprising 52% of applicants.

(With inputs from agencies.)