Riyadh Air Nears Deal for Dozens of Boeing, Airbus Widebody Jets, Bloomberg Reports

Riyadh Air is in advanced discussions with Airbus SE and Boeing Co. for a substantial new order of widebody aircraft to fuel its rapid expansion, according to a Bloomberg report citing people familiar with the matter. An official announcement is reportedly planned for next week's Farnborough International Airshow in the UK.

Details of the Potential Order

The prospective deal would significantly bolster the new carrier's long-haul fleet. According to the report, the order being finalized includes:

• Approximately six Airbus A350-1000 jets
• Around 30 unspecified widebody aircraft from Boeing

This new purchase would supplement a massive foundational order placed by the airline in 2023 and underscores its aggressive growth strategy since launching full-scale operations this month.

Strategic Expansion

Ad

Backed by Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund, Riyadh Air aims to become a major global carrier, competing with established regional players. The acquisition of additional widebody jets is critical for scaling its international route network beyond the nine cities it currently serves with its initial fleet of seven Boeing 787s.

This move signals the airline's intent to quickly build a large, modern fleet capable of connecting the Saudi capital to destinations worldwide, a key component of the kingdom's economic diversification plan.

Building on a Major 2023 Deal

The new discussions follow a landmark aircraft purchase announced in 2023. That initial commitment included firm orders for 39 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners with options for 33 more. The airline also placed an order with Airbus for over 60 A321 narrowbody jets and 25 A350s, which included purchasing rights for an additional 25 aircraft.