Riyadh Air Plans New Boeing 787 Routes to London Heathrow

RIYADH- In an exciting development for the aviation industry, Riyadh Air (RX) has secured a daily slot at the prestigious London Heathrow Airport (LHR). This marks a significant milestone as it will be the airline’s first international destination in Europe.

The new route is set to launch on October 26, 2025, offering daily service between Riyadh (RUH) and London Heathrow (LHR). The airline plans to utilize the modern Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, which can host 288 passengers in both business and economy classes.

This achievement follows a strategic slot swap with British Airways (BA), approved under the bmi remedy process. This initiative was introduced following the acquisition of BMI British Midland by the International Airlines Group (IAG) in 2012.

On July 30, 2025, Riyadh Air submitted the formal request via Airport Coordination Ltd, reflecting its vision to enhance global connectivity to over 100 destinations by 2030.

Riyadh Air’s London Slots

The newly acquired slot allows Riyadh Air to arrive at Heathrow during a peak morning period—arrival around 07:30 GMT and departure at 09:30 GMT. This strategic timing is designed to ensure smooth connections to various European destinations, particularly benefitting business travelers.

Adjustments by British Airways include rescheduling several flights, notably shifting RX401 to 07:30 and BA9998 to 23:00 on multiple operational dates, making room for the new Riyadh Air schedule.

These operational changes have been outlined in the latest slot coordination update, paving the way for ticket sales to commence shortly. Riyadh Air is also eyeing expansion to eastern regions, including India, China, and Southeast Asia.

What About Riyadh Air’s First Commercial Flight?

Riyadh Air is gearing up for its maiden commercial flight in late 2025. The airline is awaiting the delivery of new Boeing 787-9 aircraft and certification, having already conducted non-commercial flights.

An initial flight between Riyadh and Jeddah took place in September 2024, but the airline has not yet launched scheduled passenger services.

Thus, the Riyadh–London Heathrow route starting on October 26, 2025, could represent one of its first commercial services, assuming all regulatory and delivery processes are completed on time.

Launched in 2024, Riyadh Air aims to connect more than 100 destinations by 2030. Securing a slot at Heathrow—renowned for its limited capacity—is a significant achievement, signaling the airline’s competitive ambitions.

This route, with its average one-way premium fare of $1,400, caters primarily to business travelers and is expected to benefit from Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to enhance inbound tourism, especially through major events like Riyadh Season.

Riyadh Air’s entry into Heathrow bolsters its position as a potential key player in facilitating travel between the UK and the Middle East.

Enhanced Saudi Arabia–UK Air Connectivity

The air travel corridor between Saudi Arabia and the UK is set for increased competition and dynamic growth. With the addition of Riyadh Air’s service to London Heathrow, three major carriers now operate on this vital route: Saudia, British Airways, and Riyadh Air.

This expansion not only boosts frequency and airline options but also improves pricing, schedules, and flexibility for passengers, whether traveling for business or leisure. The Riyadh–London and Jeddah–London routes are crucial components of this market.

As Riyadh Air positions itself as a premium carrier, its presence on these routes is likely to elevate service standards and intensify competition with established airlines. British Airways and Saudia may need to adapt their services to maintain their market share.

This growing network also offers UK travelers enhanced access to Saudi Arabia’s emerging attractions, including the scenic Red Sea coastline and innovative projects like NEOM. With the introduction of these new flights and potential future routes, the Saudi–UK air link is becoming increasingly competitive.

Final Thoughts

With less than three months to prepare, Riyadh Air must finalize its rollout plans. This includes organizing ticket sales, ground handling, and marketing strategies.

Heathrow, as a key entry point to the UK, holds the potential for further European expansion, with cities like Frankfurt, Paris, and Amsterdam possibly on the radar. The journey to obtaining a Heathrow slot has faced numerous challenges, but success offers significant opportunities.

The bmi remedy process, aimed at ensuring fair competition, has encountered various disputes and delays over the years. The upcoming winter schedule will run from October 26, 2025, through March 28, 2026, with possibilities for renewal thereafter.

Codeshare agreements and interline partnerships will be essential for Riyadh Air to maintain favorable load factors, especially given the scale of operations involving a 288-seat aircraft.

Are you excited to see how Riyadh Air’s new route will enhance travel options between Saudi Arabia and the UK?