Riyadh Air CEO Tony Douglas is leading a delegation to India for a series of discussions to explore potential partnerships in a key market for the airline.
During its three-day visit till Friday, March 14, the delegation will meet officials at India’s civil aviation regulator, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), as well as the Embassy of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for requisite permissions and support to launch India operations.
Douglas will also meet IndiGo and Air India, India’s two largest airlines to discuss possible partnerships.
Riyadh Air expansion plans
Riyadh Air, which will launch operations later this year, is poised to significantly enhance connectivity and growth opportunities between the two nations, with India expected to become Saudi Arabia’s top tourism source market by 2030.
“India has long been a crucial part of Riyadh Air’s network planning ahead of the launch of our operations, Douglas said.
“It will play a big part in the success story of our airline, as travel and business opportunities multiply with the expanded offerings we are set to provide,” he added.
The Riyadh Air CEO said beyond connecting people, fostering economic growth, and enhancing and diversifying the Saudi Arabian and Indian tourism sectors, the airline’s network will help develop even stronger bonds between the two great countries.
“As the world’s first digital native airline, we are dedicated to partnering with entities across a variety of aviation stakeholders in India to create a sustainable, prosperous and mutually beneficial relationship that delivers exceptional travel experiences,” he said.
Exclusive deal with Bird Travels
The trip comes as Riyadh Air has officially appointed Bird Travels as its exclusive distribution and sales partner in India.
Bird Travels, renowned for its extensive connectivity and deep understanding of the Indian travel landscape, is expected to play a crucial role in enhancing Riyadh Air’s brand visibility and promoting its range of flight services across the country.
Gaurav Bhatia, Executive Director of Bird Group, said the company is honoured to be Riyadh Air’s exclusive distribution and sales partner in India.
“We are confident that Indian travellers will embrace Riyadh Air’s innovative services and exceptional onboard experience,” he said.
The Saudi Tourism Authority aims to welcome 7.5 million visitors from India per annum by the close of the decade.
Statistics show that the number of Indians travelling to Saudi Arabia increased by 50 per cent in 2023 to more than 1.5 million following a series of strategic initiatives.
Besides India, Riyadh Air is set to fly to more than 100 destinations by 2030, increase Saudi Arabia’s non-oil GDP growth by $20 billion, and directly and indirectly create more than 200,000 new jobs globally and locally.
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