Riyadh Air’s First 787-9 Delivery: Not for Passengers Yet
Riyadh Air Set to Welcome First Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner in 2025
Riyadh Air (RX), the eagerly anticipated airline based in Saudi Arabia, is preparing to take delivery of its first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, aimed at enhancing the airline’s operational capabilities. Slated to arrive in mid-2025, this leased aircraft will serve as a crucial technical spare and play a key role in crew training programs.
The stunning Dreamliner, featuring Riyadh Air’s signature pearl livery, will make its debut at the King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. This aircraft not only boasts a premium interior configuration but also differs from the upcoming fleet’s planned cabin design, which the airline intends to unveil soon.
The Role of the Boeing 787-9 in Riyadh Air’s Operations
This inaugural Dreamliner is part of a broader strategy, operating independently from the airline’s substantial order of 72 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners. Its primary function is to support Riyadh Air’s preparation for the Air Operator Certificate (AOC) certification process with the General Authority of Civil Aviation. Upon successful certification, this aircraft will transition to its role as a technical spare, enabling the airline to launch commercial operations by 2025.
Latest Job Opportunities at Riyadh Air
As Riyadh Air gears up for expansion, it is actively recruiting for essential leadership roles in preparation for the arrival of 60 Airbus A321neo aircraft in 2026. The airline is focused on filling four critical management positions to bolster its operational capabilities:
- Training Manager for Airbus Division: Develops and implements comprehensive flight crew training programs, emphasizing safety and excellence.
- Technical Pilot: Provides specialized technical support to ensure optimal aircraft performance, requiring extensive expertise.
- Senior Manager for Flight Crew Operations: Oversees crew management and operational excellence, ensuring a highly skilled flight crew.
- Senior Manager for Flight and Cabin Safety & Risk: Implements safety protocols and risk management strategies, prioritizing industry-leading safety standards.
The employment package offers access to cutting-edge Airbus technology, collaboration with aviation experts, and competitive compensation. Interested candidates can explore these career opportunities through the airline’s career portal.
New Fleet Expansion Plans for Riyadh Air
Riyadh Air is making significant strides toward expanding its fleet, with plans to order widebody aircraft capable of seating over 300 passengers in 2025. This announcement was made by Adam Boukadida, the airline’s Chief Financial Officer, at the Future Investment Initiative forum in Riyadh.
This procurement marks Riyadh Air’s third major aircraft acquisition since its inception in 2022. The airline is particularly interested in ultra-wide-body jets to enhance its long-haul operations ahead of its anticipated launch in the summer of 2025. Boukadida confirmed that the airline will initiate a Request for Proposal (RFP) process next year, maintaining neutrality between Boeing and Airbus as it evaluates options.
In early 2025, Riyadh Air plans to unveil its inaugural network strategy, outlining its key connection hubs and aligning with industry predictions for popular destinations.
For more updates on Riyadh Air’s expansion and job opportunities, stay tuned to our related articles or share your thoughts in the comments below!
