HereWeGo
June 4, 2026 • 3 min read
Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia's new airline, has just received its first flight. Explore the details about its Boeing 787 fleet and future plans.
Riyadh Air: Taking Its First Steps
Founded in 2023, Riyadh Air is gearing up for ambitious growth as Saudi Arabia's second national airline, serving the vibrant city of Riyadh (RUH). After placing an order for 72 Boeing 787-9 aircraft, the airline has begun to receive its first planes. Although operations have commenced, this marks a significant milestone as tickets are now officially available for the public.
Details About the Boeing 787 Fleet
Riyadh Air's order includes 72 Boeing 787-9 aircraft, consisting of 39 firm orders and 33 options. Additionally, the airline has ordered 60 Airbus A321neo and 50 Airbus A350-1000 planes. Delays in Boeing's deliveries have contributed to the postponement of the airline's official launch, but now, two aircraft are en route to Riyadh, expected to land simultaneously on the morning of June 5, 2026.
A Challenging Journey
Before welcoming the new planes, Riyadh Air utilized a Boeing 787-9 (registration HZ-RXX) previously operated by Oman Air. This aircraft retained its former airline's interior. Nevertheless, Riyadh Air has used this plane to complete certification processes and pilot training. Since October 2025, Riyadh Air has started adding regular flights between Riyadh and London (LHR), primarily catering to staff from the Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF).
Cabins and Amenities Onboard
Riyadh Air has unveiled a new cabin design for its fleet, featuring 290 seats divided into three classes:
- 4 Premium Business Class seats (1-2-1)
- 24 Standard Business Class seats (1-2-1)
- 39 Premium Economy seats (2-3-2)
- 223 Economy seats (3-3-3)
Onboard amenities are impressive, including free Wi-Fi, 4K OLED screens, and Bluetooth audio. The Business Class interior utilizes the highly regarded Safran Unity platform.
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The Future Direction of Riyadh Air
The first flight from Riyadh to London will officially go on sale on July 1, 2026. This will mark the airline's official launch, with plans to expand its network to numerous other destinations. A significant number of Dreamliner aircraft are on their way to the airline, indicating a promising future for Riyadh Air.
Useful Information for Vietnamese Travelers
For those planning to travel to Saudi Arabia, Vietnamese travelers can currently apply for an e-visa to enter the country. Airfare from Vietnam to Riyadh ranges from 13 million to 18 million VND, depending on the booking time and airline. The best time to visit Riyadh is from October to April, when the weather is more pleasant.
Flights to Riyadh typically depart from major airports like Tan Son Nhat (SGN) or Noi Bai (HAN). This makes it easier for travelers to choose and plan their trips. Get ready for exciting experiences and the rich culture of Saudi Arabia!
Conclusion
With its new Boeing 787 fleet and plans for destination expansion, Riyadh Air is poised to become a significant player in the Middle Eastern aviation industry. This development promises not only high-quality air service but also a bridge connecting Saudi Arabia to the world.
Article referenced and edited from: One Mile at a Time
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