In a bold move that underscores Saudi Arabia’s ambitions to become a global aviation powerhouse, Riyadh Air has finalised a firm order for 25 Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, with options to double that number to 50 in the future. The deal was announced at the Paris Air Show, one of the aviation industry’s most prestigious events, during a formal signing ceremony attended by senior industry and government leaders.
Among those present were His Excellency Yasir Al-Rumayyan, Governor of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF); Christian Scherer, Chief Executive Officer of Airbus Commercial Aircraft; and Tony Douglas, Chief Executive Officer of Riyadh Air. Their attendance highlighted the strategic importance of the agreement, not only for the airline but also for Saudi Arabia’s broader economic and infrastructure development goals.
Riyadh Air, launched in 2023 and backed by the sovereign wealth fund, is a central pillar of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 initiative, a sweeping national transformation plan aimed at diversifying the Saudi economy, reducing dependence on oil revenues, and positioning the country as a global hub for tourism, business, and logistics. One of Vision 2030’s key transportation goals is to handle 300 million air passengers annually by the end of the decade, and Riyadh Air is expected to play a critical role in achieving that target.
The A350-1000, Airbus’s most advanced wide-body aircraft, will serve as a foundational element in Riyadh Air’s long-haul strategy. With its unparalleled fuel efficiency, long-range capability, and superior passenger comfort, the aircraft is well suited to connect Saudi Arabia to key international destinations across Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
“This order represents a transformative leap in building a next-generation airline that embodies the aspirations of Vision 2030,” said Adam Boukadida, Chief Financial Officer of Riyadh Air. “The A350-1000 is a game-changer, offering a blend of operational efficiency, environmental performance, and premium passenger experience. It will allow Riyadh Air to deliver a world-class product while contributing to the Kingdom’s growing aviation ecosystem.”
Riyadh Air is positioning itself as a premium international airline designed to set new standards in service and sustainability. With its brand centred around digital innovation, luxury, and operational excellence, the airline is targeting discerning travellers in both business and leisure segments. The A350-1000, equipped with next-generation cabin features and cutting-edge aerodynamics, aligns perfectly with this vision.
Each aircraft in the A350-1000 fleet will be configured to reflect Riyadh Air’s focus on comfort and service excellence. The model offers one of the quietest and most spacious cabins in its class, along with advanced air filtration and mood lighting systems designed to reduce jet lag and enhance the onboard experience.
Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Executive Vice President Sales for Airbus Commercial Aircraft, welcomed the deal as a key milestone in the growing partnership between Airbus and Saudi Arabia.
“We are honoured to support Riyadh Air in building a new national carrier that is set to redefine the region’s aviation landscape. The A350-1000 offers unbeatable performance in fuel efficiency, range, and passenger comfort, making it the ideal platform for Riyadh Air’s ambitious expansion plans,” de Saint-Exupéry stated. “This agreement also reflects the strength of Airbus’s commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals for global connectivity, economic diversification, and sustainability.”
The A350-1000 is part of Airbus’s newest generation of wide-body aircraft and is already certified to fly using up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), with a company-wide goal of reaching 100% SAF capability by 2030. This aligns closely with Riyadh Air’s sustainability agenda, which includes carbon reduction initiatives, modern fleet investment, and responsible operational practices.
With over 1,390 firm orders from more than 60 customers worldwide, the Airbus A350 Family has rapidly become a preferred choice among full-service and long-haul carriers looking to modernise their fleets. As of May 2025, 657 A350s are in active service, connecting cities across the globe with increased efficiency and reduced environmental impact.
The A350-1000, the largest variant in the A350 family, offers a range of approximately 16,100 kilo-meters (8,700 nautical miles) and can typically carry between 350 to 410 passengers, depending on configuration. It is designed to compete directly with Boeing’s 777-9, offering airlines more flexible operations across ultra-long-haul routes.
As Riyadh Air prepares for its official commercial launch, the acquisition of the A350-1000 fleet marks a crucial milestone in its journey to becoming a globally recognised brand. The airline aims to serve over 100 international destinations by 2030, offering seamless connectivity through King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, which is also undergoing a multibillion-dollar expansion to support the Kingdom’s aviation boom.
With this bold investment, Riyadh Air not only affirms its commitment to becoming a key player in international air travel but also signals Saudi Arabia’s rising influence in the global aerospace and tourism industries.