Saudia has announced the largest aircraft deal in Saudi aviation history after agreeing to buy 105 planes during the first day of the Future Aviation Forum 2024 held at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Centre in Riyadh.
This landmark agreement encompasses 105 confirmed aircraft and marks a significant moment not only for the Saudi aviation industry but also for the wider MENA region.
The ceremony, in the presence of Minister of Transport and Logistics Services and Chairman of Saudi Arabian Airlines Corporation, Saleh Al-Jasser, was attended by dignitaries, country ambassadors, and key figures from the global aviation sector.
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The deal includes A320neo and A321neo models. These aircraft will be distributed between Saudia and flyadeal, the group’s low-cost carrier.
Saudia will acquire 54 A321neo aircraft, while flyadeal will receive 12 A320neo and 39 A321neo aircraft.
The new aircraft directly support Saudia Group’s objectives to connect the world with the Kingdom, aligning with several key pillars of Saudi Vision 2030.
These include the transportation and logistics objective to increase guests’ capacity to 330m and expand destinations to 250 by 2030, and the tourism objective to attract 150m visits by 2030.
This is in addition to the Hajj and Umrah objective to contribute to the increase of Umrah pilgrim capacity to 30m by 2030.
These modern aircraft boast a spacious cabin with a stylish interior design. They’re equipped with the latest amenities and technology, ensuring a truly differentiated travel experience that prioritises Saudia guests’ comfort and privacy while delivering an exceptional service.
Furthermore, the A320 family aircraft are fuel efficient as it emits 20 per cent less fuel burn and carbon emissions compare to previous generation aircraft.
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.”
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-plus 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 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.”
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