Saudi Arabia Spreads Wings: Two New Airlines Set to Take Flight
Saudi Arabia Spreads Wings: Two New Airlines Set to Take Flight
Neom Airlines and Riyadh Air will be new additions to the Kingdom’s aviation industry
06 April 23
Saudi Arabia's aviation industry is set to get a major boost with the launch of two new airlines - NEOM Airlines and Riyadh Air.
The Kingdom's Vision 2030 plan, has led to significant investments in the aviation sector, including the establishment of these two new carriers. Neom Airlines will work to transport visitors, contractors and residents to and from the futuristic city of NEOM. Whilst Riyadh Air will be the nation’s second national carrier, aiming to connect Saudi with international destinations.
Supporting Vision 2030, both airlines are expected to encourage travel and tourism to the Kingdom, alongside creating new job opportunities for the youth of the nation.
NEOM Airlines to launch by end of 2024
Saudi Arabia will further expand its flight connectivity in 2024 with the launch of NEOM Airlines. This new carrier for the Kingdom, will see flights taking off from its base at NEOM Bay Airport, although the routes it will be serving have not yet been announced.
From 2026, Neom Airlines will upgrade from existing aircraft to a fleet of “ultra-modern” planes. Saudi Arabia is always on the edge of the newest innovations, and with this in mind, travelers could also see the return of ultra-fast air travel, last seen in the years of the Concorde, but with a sustainable and environment-conscious twist, CEO Klaus Goersch said: “There will be new innovative aircraft – whether it be electric, hydrogen-powered or supersonic – and next-generation interiors.”
Riyadh Air will take flight in 2025
In March 2023, Saudi Arabia’s second forthcoming new airline, Riyadh Air was announced. It was also confirmed that Riyadh Air have entered an order for an initial fleet of 72 new B787-9 Dreamliner planes, rivalling other international carriers, with the aim of transforming the country into a global aviation hub serving more than 100 destinations globally by 2030.
Operating out of the capital of Riyadh, the aircraft will be delivered in early 2025. Flyers with Riyadh Air will be able to expect the “most advanced, state-of-the-art features with innovative, best-in-class cabin interiors and experiences, including next generation digital in-flight entertainment systems and connectivity solutions”.
Related articles
