RIYADH- During the first day of the Future Aviation Forum 2024, held at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center in Riyadh under the patronage of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Saudia (SV) and Flyadeal (F3) announced the largest aircraft order in Saudi aviation history with Airbus.
This landmark agreement involves 105 confirmed aircraft and represents a significant milestone for both the Saudi aviation industry and the broader MENA region.
Saudia and Flyadeal Airbus Order
The ceremony, attended by dignitaries, ambassadors, and key figures from the global aviation sector, as well as numerous media representatives and industry experts, saw the signing of the deal by H.E. Engr. Ibrahim Al Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Executive Vice President Sales of the Commercial Aircraft Business.
The event was also graced by His Excellency the Minister of Transport and Logistics Services and Chairman of Saudi Arabian Airlines Corporation, Engr. Saleh Al-Jasser.
The agreement includes A320neo and A321neo models, with Saudia acquiring 54 A321neo aircraft and flyadeal, the group’s low-cost carrier, receiving 12 A320neo and 39 A321neo aircraft.
These new aircraft will support Saudia Group’s goal of connecting the world with the Kingdom, in line with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. This includes increasing passenger capacity to 330 million, expanding destinations to 250, attracting 150 million visitors, and increasing Umrah pilgrim capacity to 30 million by 2030.
Sustainable and Modern Jets
These modern aircraft feature spacious cabins with stylish interior designs, equipped with the latest amenities and technology to ensure a premium travel experience.
Saudia prioritizes guests’ comfort and privacy while delivering exceptional service. Additionally, the A320 family aircraft are highly fuel-efficient, burning 20% less fuel and emitting 20% fewer carbon emissions compared to previous-generation aircraft.
Saudia Technic, the group’s Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) division, will provide comprehensive maintenance services to keep the new aircraft in top condition.
This will be particularly important with the upcoming completion of the MRO Village at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, which will significantly enhance the company’s service capacity.
Executive Remarks
H.E. Engr. Saleh Al-Jasser, the Minister of Transport and Logistics Services, said:
“The aviation sector is grateful for the tremendous support provided by the country’s leadership. This agreement is one of the enablers of achieving the objectives of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy. It will contribute to enhancing the operational performance of Saudia, increasing flights and seat capacity, and launching new destinations. Furthermore, it aims to connect the world to the Kingdom in line with the significant transformation witnessed by the aviation sector under Saudi Vision 2030, while also reaffirming our commitment to providing the best services that enhance the travel experience.”
H.E. Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, said:
“Saudia has ambitious operational objectives to meet growing demand. We are increasing flights and seat capacity across our existing 100+ destinations on four continents, with plans for further expansion. The progress of Saudi Vision 2030 is attracting more visits, tourists, entrepreneurs, and pilgrims each year. This motivated our decision to secure this significant deal, which will create jobs, increase local content, and contribute to the national economy.”
Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Executive Vice President of Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business said:
“The new additions of the A320neo family aircraft will play a vital role in contributing to Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030 plan. It will enable Saudia Group’s strategy to advance the Kingdom’s aviation capabilities while enabling both airlines to benefit from the A320neo Family’s exceptional efficiency, superior economics, highest level of passenger comfort as well as lower fuel-burn and emissions.”
The ceremony marked a significant milestone for Saudia, unveiling its largest investment in guest experience. This includes the introduction of a first-of-its-kind AI-powered “Travel Companion” to assist guests from trip planning to post-travel support.
Business class cabins will be transformed into luxurious, privacy-focused suites that convert into flat beds, progressively rolling out across both existing and new fleets.
Guests will also benefit from high-speed in-flight connectivity and enjoy unparalleled entertainment with high-definition screens on board.
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Flyadeal to Place New Airbus Aircraft Order and Upgrade the Existing One
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