New Saudi Arabian Carrier Riyadh Air to Launch with All-Boeing Fleet of up to 72 787-9 Dreamliners

Riyadh-based, PIF-owned airline to order 39 Dreamliners, with options for 33 more jets, enabling tourism and sustainable growthPassenger-pleasing, fuel-efficient 787s will support Saudi Arabia’s goal of welcoming 100 million visitors per year by 2030

Boeing and Riyadh Air announced that the new Saudi Arabian carrier has chosen the 787 Dreamliner to power its global launch and support its goal of operating one of the most efficient and sustainable fleets in the world.

Owned bySaudi Arabia’sPublic Investment Fund (PIF), Riyadh Air said it will purchase 39 highly efficient 787-9s, with options for an additional 33 787-9s. Based in the capital city, Riyadh Air will play a key role in growingSaudi Arabia’sair transport network.

This agreement is part ofSaudi Arabia’swider strategic plan to transform the country into a global aviation hub. In total, Saudi Arabian carriers announced their intent to purchase up to 121 787 Dreamliners in what will be the fifth largest commercial order by value in Boeing’s history. This will support the country’s goal of serving 330 million passengers and attracting 100 million visitors annually by 2030.

“The new airline reflects the ambitious vision ofSaudi Arabiato be at the core of shaping the future of global air travel and be a true disrupter in terms of customer experience,” saidTony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air.

“Riyadh Air’s commitment to its customers will see the integration of digital innovation and authentic Saudi hospitality to deliver a seamless travel experience. By positioning the airline as both a global connector and a vehicle to drive tourist and business travel toSaudi Arabia, our new 787-9 airplanes will serve as a foundation for our worldwide operations, as we build the wider network and connect our guests toSaudi Arabiaand many destinations around the world,” Douglas said.

“This is a significant order that will support Riyadh Air’s commitment to deliver a world-class travel experience, while supporting American aerospace manufacturing jobs at Boeing and across our supply chain,” saidStan Deal, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “We are incredibly proud of our nearly eight decades of partnership to drive innovation and sustainable growth inSaudi Arabia’saviation sector. Our agreement builds on that longstanding partnership and will further expand access to safe and sustainable commercial air travel for decades more.”

The 787-9 provides the longest range of the 787 family of airplanes, flying approximately 300 passengers 7,565 nautical miles (14,010 km), with additional cargo capacity. Passengers enjoy a better experience with the largest windows of any jet, air that is more humid and pressurized at a lower cabin altitude for greater comfort, large overhead bins with room for everyone’s bag; soothing LED lighting, and technology that senses and counters turbulence for a smoother ride.

The 787 family is delivering unmatched fuel efficiency to airline operators around the world reducing fuel use and emissions by 25% compared to airplanes they replace.

This new order will be posted to Boeing’s Orders and Deliveries website once it is finalized.

As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops, manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. As a top U.S. exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability and community impact. Boeing’s diverse team is committed to innovating for the future, leading with sustainability, and cultivating a culture based on the company’s core values of safety, quality and integrity.

Source: Boeing Press ReleasePhoto Credit: Public Investment Fund

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