Riyadh Air’s first non-commercial flight marks a key step in obtaining certification as the airline prepares for commercial operations in 2025, aiming to connect 100 global destinations by 2030

Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s newest airline and a subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund (PIF), launched its first non-commercial flight on September 12, 2024, as part of its certification process. The inaugural flight, RX5001, departed from King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and landed at Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport. This flight marks a significant milestone in Riyadh Air’s journey to obtain an Air Operator Certificate from the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) ahead of its scheduled commercial launch in 2025.

In the coming months, the airline will conduct multiple domestic and international flights as part of its certification flying program. Riyadh Air expressed gratitude to its partners, including Saudia Airlines, which leased the 787-9 aircraft for the flight, and Saudia Technic for maintenance support. Riyadh Airports Co. and Alsalam Aerospace Industries Co. also played key roles, providing logistical and hangar support, respectively.

Unveiled in March 2023 by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Riyadh Air is part of Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030, which aims to position the Kingdom as a global aviation hub. By 2030, Riyadh Air plans to expand connectivity to over 250 destinations and triple annual passenger traffic to 330 million.

In June 2024, the airline took a major step towards this goal by signing strategic agreements with Singapore Airlines and Air China. These partnerships focus on interline connectivity, codeshare arrangements, and collaboration in areas such as frequent flyer programs, cargo services, and digital innovation. Riyadh Air is committed to enhancing the customer experience while focusing on sustainability and environmental responsibility.

In line with these goals, Riyadh Air signed a five-year deal with GE Aerospace in July 2024 to use its cutting-edge flight operations software. The agreement will enable the airline to optimize fuel consumption, enhance safety measures, and advance its sustainability initiatives. Using GE Aerospace’s Fuel Insight software, Riyadh Air aims to set a new standard in sustainable aviation. Additionally, the airline will utilize real-time data monitoring and operations quality assurance to ensure its advanced fleet operates safely and efficiently.

With its maiden commercial flight set for 2025, Riyadh Air is positioned to become a key player in the global aviation industry, contributing to Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification and creating jobs within the Kingdom. The airline’s focus on innovation, sustainability, and strategic global partnerships underscores its ambition to redefine air travel and establish itself as a world-leading carrier.

Analysis

Political: The launch of Riyadh Air represents more than just the growth of Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector; it is a strategic move aligned with the broader political goals of Vision 2030. Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s vision to transform the Kingdom into a global aviation leader highlights Saudi Arabia’s desire to diversify its economy away from oil dependence. By expanding Riyadh Air’s operations, the country is also enhancing its soft power through global connectivity, which will inevitably strengthen diplomatic and economic ties with countries around the world. The agreements with Singapore Airlines and Air China serve as prime examples of how Saudi Arabia is leveraging its aviation sector to forge stronger international partnerships, signalling its rising influence in global geopolitics.

Social: Riyadh Air’s ambitious goals tie directly into the societal shifts taking place in Saudi Arabia. As the Kingdom aims to become a top global tourist and business destination, Riyadh Air will play a pivotal role in facilitating greater international access and encouraging cultural exchanges. This move aligns with the government’s efforts to open up Saudi Arabia to the world, as seen through the introduction of tourism initiatives and relaxed social norms under Vision 2030. Riyadh Air’s focus on customer experience, sustainability, and luxury also reflects the growing aspirations of Saudi citizens, as the country seeks to improve its global standing and modernize its infrastructure.

Racial: The development of Riyadh Air can have important racial and cultural implications, especially given Saudi Arabia’s goal of becoming a more inclusive society. Increased international flights will lead to a greater influx of travellers from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds, offering opportunities for cultural dialogue and mutual understanding. The airline’s expansion could also help diversify its workforce, providing jobs to people from various racial and ethnic groups both within Saudi Arabia and abroad. As the Kingdom modernizes, Riyadh Air’s commitment to global connectivity could foster an atmosphere of inclusivity and acceptance in a country traditionally seen as conservative and closed off.

Gender: The rise of Riyadh Air as a major international airline could positively impact gender equality in Saudi Arabia. In recent years, the Kingdom has made significant strides toward increasing female participation in the workforce, particularly in sectors that were previously male-dominated. Riyadh Air, as a prominent company, may further this trend by creating job opportunities for women in aviation and related fields, including leadership roles. By promoting women’s involvement in its operations, the airline could help set a new standard for gender inclusion in Saudi Arabia, contributing to the broader societal changes being pushed under Vision 2030.

Economic: Riyadh Air’s establishment is a key element in Saudi Arabia’s plan to diversify its economy and reduce its reliance on oil revenues. With the airline aiming to connect passengers to 250 destinations globally by 2030, the economic benefits will be vast. Increased connectivity will facilitate trade, tourism, and business opportunities, bringing in substantial revenue from international travellers and business partnerships. The airline’s use of cutting-edge technology, such as GE Aerospace’s flight operations software, will also ensure that it remains competitive in the global market, offering optimized fuel efficiency and sustainability practices. As Riyadh Air grows, it will likely attract foreign investment, further boosting Saudi Arabia’s economy and creating thousands of jobs.

In addition to driving growth within the aviation industry, Riyadh Air will indirectly benefit sectors such as hospitality, tourism, and construction, as the Kingdom continues to invest in its infrastructure. This broader economic impact is a critical component of Vision 2030, as Saudi Arabia seeks to transform itself into a diversified and resilient economy.