Riyadh Air is nearing a major milestone as it enters the final stages of securing its Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC). During the Routes World 2024 conference in Bahrain, CEO Tony Douglas shared updates on the airline’s progress and future plans. “We’re into route-proving flights at the moment. We’re days away from completing that process. We’ll have an AOC by the end of the year,” Douglas said, adding that Riyadh Air’s initial network will be unveiled in early 2025.
The airline has faced multiple challenges due to ongoing delays in the delivery of its thirty-nine B787-9 aircraft from Boeing. According to Douglas, “Delivery delays are an ever-present threat,” and Riyadh Air has had to revise its plans three times because of these setbacks. However, the airline remains focused on its long-term goal of serving 100 destinations within the first five years of operations.
Upcoming Fleet Expansion Plans
Riyadh Air has kept its plans for a narrowbody aircraft order under wraps but hinted that an announcement is imminent. Douglas mentioned that the order would be “roughly equivalent in scale” to the widebody order, indicating that the airline aims to begin single-aisle operations within a year of its official launch. In addition to narrowbodies, Riyadh Air is also eyeing larger widebody aircraft for future expansion. Although specific details were not disclosed, earlier this year, Chief Financial Officer Adam Boukadida confirmed that the airline had issued a request for proposals for ultra-widebody aircraft, including the B777 or A350-1000.
Despite the delays and revisions to its original plans, Riyadh Air remains committed to launching its first revenue flight in the first half of 2025. With the AOC expected to be secured soon, the airline is poised to begin operations, promising to become a key player in the global aviation landscape.
Riyadh Air is on track to secure its Air Operator’s Certificate by the end of 2024. The airline has faced delivery delays but continues to focus on its goal of reaching 100 destinations within five years. Fleet expansion, including narrowbody and ultra-widebody aircraft, is expected soon, with the airline aiming to start operations by mid-2025.
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