Saudi Arabian startup Riyadh Air is making significant progress towards launching operations, with ambitious plans to serve 100 destinations within five years. However, the airline’s journey has not been without challenges. According to Riyadh Air CEO Tony Douglas, the airline’s plans have already been revised three times, a reflection of the complexities involved in launching a new carrier in the highly competitive aviation market.
Speaking at the Routes World 2024 conference in Bahrain, Douglas explained that Riyadh Air is nearing the final stages of securing its Air Operator Certificate (AOC), a crucial step that will allow the airline to begin commercial operations. “We’re into route-proving flights at the moment,” Douglas said. “We’re days away from completing that process. We’ll have an AOC by the end of the year.”
Revised Plans Due to Delivery Delays
One of the key reasons for the multiple revisions to Riyadh Air’s plans has been delivery delays of its aircraft. Riyadh Air has placed an order for 39 Boeing 787-9s, with an additional 33 options, which will serve as the backbone of its fleet. These aircraft are designed to operate long-haul routes, as well as connecting regional destinations through Riyadh, maximizing utilization.
“Delivery delays are an ever-present threat,” Douglas noted, adding that the airline has had to adjust its timeline three times due to these delays. Despite these setbacks, Riyadh Air remains committed to its goal of serving 100 destinations within its first five years of operation.
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Boeing 787-9s to Launch Long-Haul Flights
Riyadh Air’s initial fleet of Boeing 787-9s will be key to its long-haul strategy, allowing the airline to establish itself in major global markets while connecting passengers through Riyadh to regional destinations. The airline’s focus on maximizing aircraft utilization will also make it an attractive option for airports looking to secure Riyadh Air routes.
In addition to its widebody order, Riyadh Air plans to announce a narrowbody order of “roughly equivalent scale” in the near future, which will allow the airline to expand its short- and medium-haul operations within a year of launching.
Aiming for 100 Destinations in Five Years
Riyadh Air is determined to become a major player in the global aviation market, with the ambitious goal of serving 100 destinations within five years. With its modern fleet, innovative booking technology, and strategic partnerships, Riyadh Air is poised to make a strong entrance into the aviation industry.
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