Saudi Arabia’s newest national airline, Riyadh Air, is reportedly considering a significant expansion of its long-haul fleet by purchasing 25 to 30 additional Boeing 787 Dreamliners, according to a Reuters report citing industry sources. The airline is expected to exercise most of its existing purchase options with Boeing, a move that would further strengthen its fleet expansion strategy as it scales up international operations.
Announcement Could Come at Farnborough Airshow
Industry sources told Reuters that Riyadh Air could announce the conversion of the majority of its Boeing purchase options into firm orders as early as the Farnborough International Airshow, one of the world’s leading aviation events, scheduled for next week. However, both Riyadh Air and Boeing declined to comment on the reported plans.
Fleet Expansion Plans Continue
Established in 2023 and wholly owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), Riyadh Air is positioning itself as a premium full-service international airline. The carrier launched its first commercial revenue flights last month and has been rapidly building its fleet to support Saudi Arabia’s ambitious aviation and tourism goals.
In 2023, the airline placed an order for up to 72 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, including 39 firm orders and options for an additional 33 aircraft. Exercising most of those options would substantially increase the airline’s future fleet.
Airbus Order Book May Also Grow
In addition to its Boeing fleet plans, Riyadh Air is also reportedly evaluating the possibility of expanding its Airbus order book. The airline currently has 25 Airbus A350-1000 long-haul aircraft on firm order, along with options for another 25 jets. According to industry sources, some of these options may also be converted into confirmed purchases. Airbus also declined to comment on the report.
Supporting Saudi Arabia’s Aviation Vision
The potential aircraft acquisitions align with Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to transform the Kingdom into a global aviation and tourism hub under Vision 2030. Riyadh Air is expected to play a central role in increasing international connectivity, supporting tourism growth, and expanding the country’s global air transport network through one of the world’s newest premium airline brands.
