Riyadh Air has expanded its future long-haul fleet after confirming an order for six additional Airbus A350-1000 aircraft at the Farnborough International Airshow. The latest agreement increases the Saudi Arabian airline’s firm order for the aircraft to 31 and forms part of its original commitment for up to 50 A350-1000s announced in 2025.
Fleet expansion supports growth
Riyadh Air said the additional aircraft will play a key role in supporting its international expansion plans and Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy. The airline will become the first carrier in Saudi Arabia to operate the Airbus A350-1000 and plans to use the aircraft as it works towards serving more than 100 destinations worldwide by 2030.
Adam Boukadida, chief financial officer of Riyadh Air, said:
“Increasing our A350-1000 commitment to 31 aircraft strengthens the foundation of our future network and supports our ambition to serve more than 100 global destinations by 2030 while delivering a premium guest experience.”
Airbus welcomes partnership
Airbus said the latest agreement reinforces its partnership with Riyadh Air as the airline continues to build its fleet ahead of launching a global network.
Benoit de Saint-Exupery, executive vice president for Airbus Commercial Aircraft, said the A350-1000 would play an important role in supporting the airline’s long-term ambitions and Saudi Arabia’s plans to strengthen its position as an international aviation hub.
“This additional A350-1000 commitment reflects the airline’s confidence in the aircraft’s exceptional efficiency, range and passenger appeal.”
A350 designed for long-haul travel
The A350-1000 is the largest member of the A350 family and is designed to operate non-stop flights of up to 18,000 kilometres.
According to Airbus, the aircraft delivers a 25% improvement in fuel burn, operating costs and carbon dioxide emissions compared with previous-generation competitor aircraft.
At the end of June 2026, Airbus said the A350 family had secured 1,595 firm orders from 68 customers worldwide.
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