Saudi Arabia Launches Riyadh Air

On the 12th of March, 2023, Saudi Arabia's crown prince and prime minister, Mohammed bin Salman al Saud, announced the launch of Riyadh Air, the country's second flag carrier after Saudia. The Public Investment Fund (PIF) will be the sole owner of the airline. HE Yasir Al-Rumayyan has been appointed Chairman. The crown prince also named Tony Douglas as the airline's CEO.

The airline's main hub and operational base will be at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. One of the airline's primary goals is to have more than a hundred routes across six continents by 2030.

On the 14th of March, Riyadh Air ordered 39 Boeing 787-9 aircraft with the option of ordering 33 more. CEO Tony Douglas signed the commitment alongside the airline chairman, HE Yasir Al-Rumayyan and Boeing's Senior Vice President of commercial sales and marketing, Brad McMullen. Also present at the signing was the Saudi Arabian Ambassador to the United States, HRH Princess Reema Al Saud and Boeing's President and CEO, David Calhoun.

CEO Tony Douglas said in his statement, "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 787-9 airplanes 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".??

The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner boasts a range of up to 7,565 nautical miles - the best range of any Dreamliner. Approximately 20 feet longer than the 787-8 variant, the 787-9 can seat up to 290 passengers with extra cargo space. With over 800 orders, the 787-9 has proven to be a popular choice among airlines. It has received plaudits for its increased fuel efficiency, which cuts running expenses and reduces carbon emissions.

The emergence of Riyadh Air is set to impact the aviation industry significantly. With its vision of generating over 200,000 jobs and increasing the tourism sector's GDP by 10%, it is well-positioned to compete with major airlines and gain passengers' attention worldwide.