Boeing has secured orders for up to 121 787s from two carriers in Saudia Arabia to support the country’s goal of serving 330 million passengers and attracting 100 million visitors annually by 2030.
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Riyadh Air the new Saudi Arabian, owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), will buy 39 787-9s and take options for an additional 33 787-9s.
The order was matched by Saudia Arabian Airlines which will grow its long-haul fleet with 49 787 with a further 10 options. The agreement will include both 787-9 and 787-10 models.
Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air said: “The new airline reflects the ambitious vision of Saudi Arabia to be at the core of shaping the future of global air travel and be a true disrupter in terms of customer experience,
“Riyadh Air’s commitment to its customers will see the integration of digital innovation and authentic Saudi hospitality to deliver a seamless travel experience. By positioning the airline as both a global connector and a vehicle to drive tourist and business travel to Saudi Arabia, our new 787-9s will serve as a foundation for our worldwide operations, as we build the wider network and connect our guests to Saudi Arabia and many destinations around the world,” Mr Douglas said.
His Excellency Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of SAUDIA Group said “SAUDIA continues its expansion efforts in all aspects of the airline; whether it’s introducing new destinations or increasing the aircraft fleet. The agreement with Boeing delivers on this commitment and the newly added aircraft will further enable SAUDIA to fulfil its strategic objective of bringing the world to the Kingdom”.
SAUDIA operates more than 50 Boeing aircraft on its long-haul network, including the 777-300ER (Extended Range) and 787-9 and 787-10 Dreamliner.
Since revenue service began in 2011, the 787 family has launched more than 350 new nonstop routes around the world, including about 50 new routes since 2020. The Dreamliner reduces fuel use and emissions by 25% compared to the aircraft it replaces.
