In a significant step forward, Riyadh Air has signed a global distribution agreement with Amadeus, one of the world’s leading travel technology providers. This strategic partnership ensures that the airline’s services will be connected to over 190 countries via the Amadeus Travel Platform, giving Riyadh Air unprecedented access to international markets before its first flight even takes off.
The agreement also includes the future integration of New Distribution Capability (NDC) content, enabling Riyadh Air to offer dynamic, personalised travel packages and greater control over how its content is presented to global travel sellers.
“We’re not just launching an airline—we’re building a new aviation experience from the ground up. Amadeus gives us the reach and retailing capability to connect with the world in a modern, flexible, and high-performing way. This is about more than selling tickets—it’s about shaping the future of Saudi aviation and global travel.” – Vincent Coste, Chief Commercial Officer of Riyadh Air
Amadeus, for its part, views the partnership as a natural fit for the next phase of aviation in the Gulf.
“Riyadh Air represents a bold and exciting vision. They are designing an airline with digital-first DNA, and we’re here to equip them with tools that not only meet today’s needs but anticipate tomorrow’s traveller expectations.” -said Maher Koubaa, Executive Vice President of Amadeus and Managing Director EMEA
Facing delays with determination
While the Boeing 787 Dreamliners Riyadh Air has ordered are arriving later than planned—a setback that would stall many launch timelines—the airline has taken a composed and proactive approach.
The first commercial flights, originally anticipated for early 2025, are now expected to begin in the third quarter of 2025. The revised schedule comes amid broader Boeing supply chain challenges affecting airlines globally. Riyadh Air now expects around four aircraft to be delivered in 2025 instead of the initially forecasted eight.
But instead of slowing down, Riyadh Air is doubling down. The airline has leased a Boeing 787-9 technical spare, now based in Riyadh, to be used for crew training, aircraft handling, and certification.
Heathrow in sight
Riyadh Air has secured coveted slot pairs at London Heathrow for winter 2025. With flights tentatively set to operate as RX401 and RX402, this early route planning reflects the airline’s ambition to cement Riyadh as a competitive hub for international travellers, one flight path at a time.
Industry observers have noted the significance of these early moves.
“Securing LHR slots is no small feat. It shows Riyadh Air isn’t waiting for perfect conditions to start building relevance. They’re sending a signal to the global market: ‘We’re coming—and we’re coming prepared.’” – Leila Haroun, aviation analyst
The vision
Unveiled in 2023 by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Riyadh Air is backed by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) and envisioned as a catalyst for Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification. The airline is expected to contribute over USD 20 billion to the Kingdom’s non-oil GDP and create more than 200,000 direct and indirect jobs.
“This is an airline with a national mission. We’re not just flying planes—we’re helping fly a country into its next chapter.” – Coste
As Vision 2030 accelerates, aviation remains a pillar of transformation, enabling Saudi Arabia to welcome 150 million annual visitors, boost private investment, and deepen international connectivity.
While delivery delays have modestly altered Riyadh Air’s timeline, they haven’t grounded its ambition. The airline continues to move with intention, signing global deals, acquiring key routes, and building infrastructure that positions it for long-term relevance.
And now when travellers are more digitally savvy and experience-driven than ever before, Riyadh Air’s bet on cutting-edge tech and strategic distribution may well become the model for how new airlines launch in the 21st century.
Also read: How to become a Riyadh Air cabin crew member – the 2025 guide to flying high
