Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh Air on Monday announced four new destinations as it prepares to open its flagship route to London Heathrow to the general public.
In an interview with Al Arabiya English, CEO Tony Douglas said the carrier will soon serve Cairo, Dubai, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and Madrid. All four cities had been floated as likely destinations, but the airline did not confirm them until this week.
Another six routes will be announced shortly, Douglas said. The carrier’s near-term goal is to have 22 destinations online by March 2027.
The airline operates from King Khalid International Airport, near Riyadh. It is being positioned as the country’s second flag carrier, behind Jeddah-based Saudia.
Riyadh Air launched its inaugural route to London Heathrow in October, but so far only airline officials and their families have been able to book flights. That will change July 1, when the first fully public service to London takes place.
Riyadh Air has ordered up to 72 Boeing 787-9s, and took delivery of its first three within the last few days. Another three will be delivered this month, Douglas said, with two more arriving in July. From August, deliveries will continue at a rate of one aircraft per month.
The carrier’s first Airbus aircraft is expected to arrive by the end of the year, Douglas added. Riyadh Air has ordered 60 Airbus A321neos and up to 50 A350-1000s.
