Riyadh Air is on track to commence commercial passenger flights by the end of 2025, with its CEO Tony Douglas outlining the airline’s bold ambition to surpass regional competitors by blending operational scale with digital innovation.
The carrier, launched in 2023 under the direction of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, forms a core part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. The airline is set to connect Riyadh to 100 international destinations by 2030, positioning the capital city as a global aviation hub and complementing the Jeddah-based national carrier in a dual-flag strategy.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Al Arabiya’s GNT, Douglas described the airline as a transformative force in Saudi aviation. “This is one of those really important moments in the evolution of aviation within the Kingdom,” he said. “In short, the Kingdom’s Emirates, the Kingdom’s Qatar Airways—but bigger and better.”
Fleet Expansion and Aircraft Orders
The airline’s initial fleet includes:
72 Boeing 787 Dreamliners
60 Airbus A320neo
A third wide-body aircraft model to be announced by mid-2025
Aircraft production is already underway, with Douglas expressing confidence in meeting delivery timelines. He also revealed Riyadh Air is ready to purchase Boeing jets originally destined for Chinese airlines, should they become available due to US-China trade tensions.
Riyadh Air has officially secured its Air Operator Certificate (AOC), a milestone allowing it to commence commercial air transport. Recent announcements also include the unveiling of crew uniforms, liveries, and aircraft interiors.
Strong Talent Pipeline and National Programs
Over 1.4 million job applications from 146 nationalities have been submitted, with recruitment underway for pilots, engineers, and crew. Riyadh Air has also introduced a Saudi female aviation technician program and has plans to establish a national pilot training academy.
Supporting Major National Events
Douglas confirmed Riyadh Air will play a strategic role in supporting key upcoming global events hosted by Saudi Arabia, including the 2034 FIFA World Cup and Expo 2030.
“Riyadh is already a hub for global entertainment, attractions, culture and heritage. It needs a super-connecting, world-class, full-service airline,” he said.
Built for the Digital Future
Designed from the ground up, Riyadh Air is a fully digital airline with no legacy systems. AI will play a central role in the passenger experience—from digital concierge services to tailored travel recommendations and seamless booking or refund processes.
“What we are going to use AI for is exactly that—to act like a concierge, curating the optionality and the proposition of an experience,” said Douglas.
Premium Onboard Experience
The airline will feature four cabin classes: first, business elite, premium economy, and economy. Noteworthy design innovations include:
Headrest-integrated sound systems that eliminate the need for headphones without disrupting adjacent passengers.
Business elite cabins offering enclosed privacy suites, with 4K OLED screens and canopy-inspired designs reminiscent of the traditional Bedouin tent.
Riyadh Air is poised to redefine air travel in the region and beyond—delivering a future-ready, luxurious, and technologically advanced flying experience.
