Focusing on expanding the strategic partnership for improving connectivity, Air India and Saudia have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The MoU supports travel links between India and Saudi Arabia with the intent to expand destinations and flight routes.
Phased approach to the partnership between Air India and Saudia
The agreement between H.E. Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, director general of Saudia group, and Mr. Campbell Wilson, chief executive officer and managing director of Air India, expressed support for a long-term partnership between the airlines. Both airlines share a commitment to establishing successful aviation strategies in a demanding global market through codeshare agreements.
The MoU is based on a phased approach to the significant partnership between Air India and Saudia. Gradually, Air India and Saudia will expand cooperation through improving the codeshare agreements, boosting connectivity across each airline’s existing networks, terminal co-location and increased operational and commercial opportunities. The focus of this partnership between the two airlines is demonstrated by the cooperation between their respective loyalty programmes.
Through assessing the scale of future opportunities in commercial aviation, Air India and Saudia also look to extend their partnerships to include other airlines like flyadeal and Air India Express, at least in the long-term.
Air India and Saudia’s overall long-term strategy
On the whole, the MoU between Air India and Saudia helps form the overall framework for significant development. Air India was privatised in 2022 and has expanded globally since then.
As of 2026, Air India sustains 25 codeshare agreements as well as over 120 interline agreements with global airlines. As a result, Air India provides its customers with access to over 1000 international destinations.
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