Saudia Eyes Massive Aircraft Order

The carrier is reportedly in talks with Boeing and Airbus.

A Saudia Boeing 787 aircraft
A Saudia Boeing 787 aircraft (Photo: Shutterstock | ZuhdiMus)
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Key Takeaways:

  • Saudia is in talks with Boeing and Airbus for a potentially record-breaking order of at least 150 aircraft.
  • The new jets would be used to replace existing fleet and support the airline's expansion efforts.
  • The Saudi government is repositioning Saudia to primarily focus on religious pilgrimages.
  • This strategic shift for Saudia contrasts with Riyadh Air, the country's second flag carrier, which will be geared towards tourists.
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Saudi Arabian flag carrier Saudia is in talks with Boeing and Airbus for what could be its largest aircraft order ever.

Bloomberg reported Thursday that the airline is looking to purchase at least 150 jets. Saudia is still considering its options and hasn’t settled on types or quantities, people with knowledge of the matter told the outlet.

The aircraft would replace some of the carrier’s existing fleet, while also supporting expansion efforts.

Saudia currently operates a mix of Boeing and Airbus jets, including the A320, A330, 777-300ER, and 787 Dreamliner.

News of the potential order comes as the Saudi government makes new investments in Saudia, including installation of Starlink satellite internet service on some of its aircraft. According to Bloomberg, the airline is being repositioned to focus mainly on religious pilgrimages, while Riyadh Air, the country’s second flag carrier, is being geared toward tourists.

Saudia has an extensive network within the Middle East and also serves destinations in Europe, Africa, North America, India, and East Asia. In North America, it serves New York-JFK, Washington Dulles, Toronto, and Los Angeles.

Zach Vasile

Zach Vasile is a writer and editor covering news in all aspects of commercial aviation. He has reported for and contributed to the Manchester Journal Inquirer, the Hartford Business Journal, the Charlotte Observer, and the Washington Examiner, with his area of focus being the intersection of business and government policy.
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