In an unprecedented spectacle, the road journey of three retired Boeing 777 aircraft from Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia) has captured the nation’s attention. Videos and photos of the extraordinary voyage across the deserts and mountains flooded social media.
The massive aircraft was destined for display at Riyadh Season 2024’s Boulevard Runway zone. Indeed, it has travelled an impressive 1,000 kilometres from Jeddah to Riyadh atop enormous trucks. With no wings, fuselages, or other functional parts, the colossal aircraft bodies embarked on this rare and remarkable expedition. It has created a trend for the people.
The Trend
Individuals in Saudi Arabia have widely documented the aircraft journey on social media. People were wearing traditional clothing and proudly displaying the national flag. Families have come together to observe the aircraft, and children, dressed in green shirts and caps, are enthusiastically waving small planes.
In a creative twist, Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority head, Turki Al Sheikh, announced a competition on X. The head invited Saudi nationals to submit their best photos of the Boeing 777s en route to Riyadh, with a luxury car as the grand prize.
Moreover, They will transform the three aircraft into shops and restaurants. They will offer around 13 interactive events, including games and unique aviation experiences.
The Riyadh Season 2024
Riyadh Season 2024 features 14 entertainment zones spread across 7.2 million square meters. A highlight is the Boulevard Runway, created in partnership with Saudia Airlines, showcasing retired Boeing 777 aircraft as a key attraction.
The reimagined Boeing 777s now feature shops, restaurants, and interactive experiences, creating a dynamic hub in the Boulevard Runway zone. Visitors can explore these aircraft in their new form, with entertainment and dining options for all ages. The planes, repurposed into innovative spaces, combine Saudi Arabia’s rich aviation legacy with modern creativity. This bold transformation adds a unique dimension to Riyadh Season, blending aviation history with cutting-edge experiences in an unforgettable way.
About Saudi Arabian Airlines
Saudi Arabian Airlines is the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia. Established in 1945, Saudia has grown into one of the largest airlines in the Middle East. It operates a wide network of domestic and international flights. Its hub is located at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, with secondary hubs at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and King Fahd International Airport in Dammam.
Saudia is a member of the SkyTeam airline alliance, which allows it to offer passengers extensive connections worldwide. Known for its commitment to service and innovation, Saudia has played a significant role in supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative by enhancing its global connectivity and tourism efforts.
In conclusion, the transformation of retired Boeing 777 aircraft into shops, restaurants, and interactive spaces has brought a unique and innovative dimension to the Riyadh Season 2024. This creative initiative not only showcases Saudi Arabia’s rich aviation legacy but also demonstrates a blend of tradition and modernity.
How do you find this unique journey that made it to a trend?
