Paris Air Show: Riyadh Air Places Firm Order for 25 Airbus A350-1000 Aircraft
Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s new international airline, announced a firm order for 25 Airbus A350-1000 aircraft at the Paris Air Show. This commitment, which could expand to 50 units, marks a pivotal moment for both the airline and the Saudi aviation industry.
The signing ceremony was attended by H.E. Yasir Al-Rumayyan, Governor of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF); Christian Scherer, CEO of Airbus Commercial Aircraft; and Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air.
First A350-1000 Operator in Saudi Arabia
With this deal, Riyadh Air becomes the first airline in the country to integrate the A350-1000 into its fleet. This decision aligns with the goals of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to reach 300 million annual air passengers by the end of the decade. It also positions the Kingdom as a key player in the global aviation and tourism landscape.
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Adam Boukadida, Chief Financial Officer of Riyadh Air, stated: “This order represents a significant step toward building a world-class airline in line with Vision 2030’s aspirations. The A350-1000 will deliver exceptional efficiency and comfort, supporting our sustainability goals and offering a premium experience as we connect Saudi Arabia to the world.”
Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus Executive Vice President of Commercial Aircraft Sales, emphasized: “We are proud to expand our strategic partnership with Riyadh Air. The A350-1000, a leader in long-haul travel, provides unmatched efficiency, range, and passenger comfort. It is the ideal choice to support the airline’s ambitious growth plans and Vision 2030’s global connectivity objectives.”
The A350-1000: A Benchmark in Modern Aviation
The Airbus A350-1000 stands as the world’s most advanced and efficient widebody aircraft. Designed to redefine intercontinental travel standards, it boasts the longest range of any commercial aircraft currently in production.
Additionally, it can operate with up to 50% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), and Airbus aims for its entire fleet to be 100% SAF-compatible by 2030.
Global Perspective on the A350
As of late May 2025, the A350 family has secured over 1,390 firm orders from more than 60 customers worldwide. Currently, 657 units are in service, operating short-, medium-, and long-haul routes across multiple continents.
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Un apasionado por la aviación, Fundador y CEO de Aviación al Día.