COO Peter Bellew expressed a preference for fostering broad connections akin to the United Nations rather than aligning with a single alliance like oneworld.
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GLOAs Riyadh Air gears up for its commencement of commercial operations, it is directing its efforts towards bolstering international partnerships with airlines as a means to enhance its network from the Saudi Arabian capital.
The emerging airline has sought an air operator’s certificate and anticipates commencing test flights later this year.
In response to inquiries about alliance participation, COO Peter Bellew expressed a preference for fostering broad connections akin to the United Nations rather than aligning with a single alliance like oneworld.
During 2023, Riyadh Air inked collaboration agreements with Saudia, the national carrier, and Turkish Airlines.
Bellew highlighted a startup advantage of possessing state-of-the-art digital systems, facilitating seamless integration with other airlines’ infrastructures without legacy system concerns.
Riyadh Air intends to unveil its inaugural routes by the conclusion of 2024, preceding its commercial launch targeted for mid-2025, with a focus on major regional hubs and European capitals as probable destinations.
Additionally, there’s considerable interest in Asian markets, particularly China, Indonesia, and Singapore. Recent expansions in air services between Saudi Arabia and Singapore have paved the way for increased flights and unrestricted fifth-freedom flights.
With an order in place for 39 Boeing 787s and options for an additional 72, Riyadh Air aims to finalize its narrowbody aircraft order within the next six months.
