Riyadh Air to launch commercial flights by summer of 2025: CEO

Tony Douglas,CEO of Riyadh Air

Riyadh Air is working closely with aircraft manufacturers Boeing and Airbus to ensure the launch of its commercial flights by the summer of 2025, said CEO Tony Douglas.

The airline plans to start trial flights next September, he said at the Future Aviation Forum 2024.

As to the delay in delivery of the aircraft, Douglas said that his company is aware of the issue, indicating that Riyadh Air clarified to Boeing and Airbus its unique status as an emerging player with no alternative plan. According to data available on Argaam, Douglas said in March 2023 that Riyadh Air would likely receive the first wide-body aircraft and launch its first international flight in early 2025.

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman announced in March 2023 the establishment of Riyadh Air by the Public Investment Fund. The new airline aims to contribute to the development of the aviation sector and enhance the kingdom's strategic position, Argaam earlier reported.

Riyadh Air aims to launch flights to more than 100 destinations around the world by 2030. The airline has placed an order for 72 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners.