Riyadh Air Receives Certificate to Launch Scheduled Flights
Riyadh Air Secures Air Operator Certificate, Set to Launch Flights in 2025
Riyadh Air, the newly established full-service airline based in Jeddah, has achieved a significant milestone by receiving its Air Operators Certificate (AOC) from Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA). This pivotal development, announced on April 7, 2025, positions Riyadh Air to commence regular scheduled passenger flights later this year, marking a new era for air travel in the Kingdom.
The issuance of the AOC confirms Riyadh Air’s compliance with Saudi aviation regulations and international safety standards, as outlined under the Chicago Convention on International Civil Aviation. This achievement underscores the Kingdom’s dedication to fostering a world-class aviation sector in line with the Saudi Aviation Strategy.
A Comprehensive Review Process
GACA’s statement emphasized that the certification process involved a thorough audit of Riyadh Air’s operational capabilities. This included evaluations of technical systems, aircraft readiness, and the qualifications of flight and ground personnel. The review process spanned over 11 months and involved a dedicated team of ten aviation safety inspectors, conducting more than 200 hours of test flights to ensure full compliance with operational standards.
Leadership Acknowledgment
During the official certification ceremony, His Excellency Saleh Al-Jasser, Minister of Transport and Logistics, expressed that this milestone would enhance competition within the aviation sector, offering travelers greater value and options. The President of GACA, His Excellency Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, reaffirmed Riyadh Air’s role in improving connectivity both domestically and internationally.
Future Flight Plans and Fleet Expansion
As part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative, Riyadh Air aims to attract over 330 million visitors annually by 2030. The airline plans to operate domestic, regional, and long-haul flights from Jeddah’s King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) to over 100 destinations, supported by an impressive fleet of more than 132 aircraft.
In January 2025, Riyadh Air’s first operational Boeing 787-9 conducted its inaugural flight between King Khalid International Airport (RUH) in Riyadh and Istanbul (IST), Turkey. This flight was crucial for crew training and showcased the airline’s readiness for scheduled operations.
Current and Future Fleet Orders
Currently, Riyadh Air has outstanding orders for 39 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, with options for an additional 33. In October 2024, the airline placed an order for 60 Airbus A321neo aircraft, further strengthening its operational capabilities. The startup airline anticipates creating over 200,000 direct and indirect jobs and contributing approximately $19.9 billion to the Kingdom’s non-oil GDP.
Growth in Saudi Arabia’s Aviation Sector
The granting of Riyadh Air’s AOC comes at a time of unprecedented growth for Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector. In 2024, passenger numbers surged by 15%, exceeding 128 million, while air connectivity expanded by 16%, linking the Kingdom to more than 170 destinations worldwide. This growth also extended to the air cargo sector, which saw a remarkable 34% increase in volume.
Conclusion
With the receipt of its Air Operator Certificate, Riyadh Air is poised to transform the aviation landscape in Saudi Arabia. As the airline prepares to take to the skies later in 2025, it invites travelers to anticipate enhanced service and connectivity.
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