Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s premium new international airline, has signed a firm order for 25 state-of-the-art Airbus A350-1000 aircraft. The agreement, sealed at the 2025 Paris Air Show, includes an option to expand the order to 50 jets. The signing ceremony was attended by H.E. Yasir Al-Rumayyan, Governor of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), Christian Scherer, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Airbus Commercial Aircraft, and Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air.
Supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030
This deal represents more than a fleet expansion—it’s a strategic pillar of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the Kingdom’s economy and establish it as a global hub for tourism, logistics, and aviation. The addition of the A350-1000s is a critical piece in Riyadh Air’s strategy to help the country achieve its goal of accommodating 300 million air travelers annually by the end of the decade.
Chief Finance Officer of Riyadh Air, Adam Boukadida said:
This order marks a significant step forward in building a world-class airline that reflects the ambitions of Vision 2030. The A350-1000 will bring outstanding efficiency and comfort to our fleet, supporting our sustainability goals and enabling Riyadh Air to offer a premium experience while connecting Saudi Arabia to the world. It’s a clear signal of our intent to shape the future of air travel and contribute meaningfully to the Kingdom’s fast-growing aviation ecosystem.”
Riyadh Air Becomes First Saudi Operator of the A350-1000
With this acquisition, Riyadh Air becomes the first airline in Saudi Arabia to operate the Airbus A350-1000—the flagship model in Airbus’ widebody family. Known for its modern and efficient widebody aircraft, fuel efficiency, and premium cabin design, tit will offer the longest range capability to Riyadh Air.
The A350 is also a key player in aviation’s decarbonization. It is currently certified to fly with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), with Airbus targeting full SAF capability across its fleet by 2030.
Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, EVP Sales, Airbus Commercial Aircraft says:
We are proud to extend our strategic partnership with Riyadh Air as it continues to build a pioneering carrier for the Kingdom. As the long-range leader, the A350-1000 will provide unrivalled efficiency, range and passenger comfort, making it the ideal choice to support the airline’s ambitious growth plans and Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives to enhance global connectivity and economic diversification.
Airbus A350 Family
As of May 2025, the Airbus A350 Family has garnered over 1,390 firm orders from more than 60 global carriers, with 657 aircraft already in service worldwide. Riyadh Air’s addition to this elite circle of operators signals a bold new era for Middle East aviation.
Backed by the PIF and helmed by aviation industry veteran Tony Douglas, Riyadh Air is not just building an airline — it’s shaping the future of air travel for Saudi Arabia and the world.
What destinations do you hope to see on Riyadh Air’s A350-1000 route map as Saudi Arabia expands its global aviation footprint? Let us know in the comments below!
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