Key facts
- Riyadh Air is considering purchasing an additional 25 to 30 Boeing 787 Dreamliners.
- The potential purchase would involve exercising most of the airline's existing contractual options with Boeing.
- Riyadh Air had previously ordered up to 72 Dreamliners, with 39 definitive orders and 33 options.
- A decision or announcement could be made as early as the upcoming Farnborough Airshow.
- Both Riyadh Air and Boeing declined to comment on the matter.
Saudi Arabian startup airline Riyadh Air is reportedly evaluating the acquisition of an additional 25 to 30 Boeing 787 Dreamliners. This potential expansion would involve exercising a significant portion of its existing contractual options with the U.S. aircraft manufacturer. The airline, which commenced its first commercial revenue flights last month, had initially placed an order for up to 72 Dreamliners in 2023, comprising 39 firm orders and options for 33 more aircraft.
Industry sources suggest that an official announcement regarding the conversion of these options into firm purchases could be made as early as the upcoming Farnborough Airshow. However, these sources also cautioned that discussions on the specifics are ongoing. Both Riyadh Air and Boeing have declined to provide comments on the matter.
Riyadh Air is a key component of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 economic diversification plan, aiming to establish the Kingdom as a global air transport hub. The airline's strategy includes a modern fleet, premium cabin configurations, and competitive pricing to attract tourists and passengers. The initial order of 72 Dreamliners is valued at $11 billion, with plans to serve over 100 international destinations by 2030. The airline has also ordered 60 Airbus A321neos for short-to-medium haul routes and has options for A350-1000s, potentially bringing its total aircraft order book to 182.