Riyadh Air confirmed a firm order for 25 Airbus A350-1000 aircraft during a signing event at the Paris Air Show, marking a significant step in its ongoing fleet development. The deal includes an option to expand the order to a total of 50 aircraft. The agreement was formalized in the presence of H.E. Yasir Al-Rumayyan, Governor of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, Airbus CEO Commercial Aircraft Christian Scherer, and Riyadh Air CEO Tony Douglas.
With this order, Riyadh Air becomes the first airline in Saudi Arabia to operate the Airbus A350-1000. This move directly supports the goals of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to increase air passenger traffic to 300 million annually by the end of the decade. Riyadh Air is positioning itself to play a key role in that strategy by expanding its global operations and fleet capacity.
The A350-1000, known for long-range capability, low fuel consumption, and passenger comfort, is seen as a strategic choice to connect Saudi Arabia with more destinations. The aircraft also aligns with Riyadh Air’s environmental targets, offering better fuel efficiency and improved performance metrics.
Supporting National Goals
Adam Boukadida, Chief Financial Officer of Riyadh Air, said, “This order marks a significant step forward in building a world-class airline that reflects the ambitions of Vision 2030. The A350-1000 will bring outstanding efficiency and comfort to our fleet, supporting our sustainability goals and enabling Riyadh Air to offer a premium experience while connecting Saudi Arabia to the world.” He also noted that the fleet expansion “is a clear signal of our intent to shape the future of air travel and contribute meaningfully to the Kingdom’s fast-growing aviation ecosystem.”
Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business, stated, “We are proud to extend our strategic partnership with Riyadh Air as it continues to build a pioneering carrier for the Kingdom. As the long-range leader, the A350-1000 will provide unrivalled efficiency, range and passenger comfort, making it the ideal choice to support the airline’s ambitious growth plans and Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives to enhance global connectivity and economic diversification.”
Sustainability in Focus
The A350 is designed to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel. Airbus aims for all its aircraft to operate on 100% SAF by 2030. This objective complements Riyadh Air’s goals to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce environmental impact across its fleet.
As of May 2025, the A350 Family has secured more than 1,390 firm orders from over 60 customers worldwide. There are currently 657 A350 aircraft in service on a mix of long, medium, and short haul routes globally. Riyadh Air’s entry into this fleet group further reflects the company’s long-term plans to build a competitive and environmentally responsible operation.
Riyadh Air’s new aircraft order not only boosts its international connectivity but also reinforces its role in Saudi Arabia’s broader transport and tourism development plans under Vision 2030.
