Riyadh Air Launches B787-9 Flight, Unveils Dreamliner Simulator
Riyadh Air Takes Flight: Maiden Voyage of Boeing 787-9 Marks New Era in Aviation
Riyadh Air, the ambitious new airline from Saudi Arabia, recently celebrated a significant milestone with the maiden flight of its first operational Boeing 787-9. The aircraft, adorned in the airline’s distinctive livery, journeyed from Riyadh-King Khalid International Airport (RUH) to Istanbul (IST), marking a crucial step in the airline’s preparations for its upcoming launch in Q3 2025.
This Boeing 787-9, registered as HZ-RXX, previously served with Oman Air. Its primary role during this flight was to conduct crew training and familiarization, essential for securing the airline’s Air Operator Certificate (AOC). The flight lasted approximately four hours, although it remains unclear if the primary objective was solely for training or if it involved technical procedures in Turkey.
Preparing for Launch: Key Details About Riyadh Air’s New Fleet
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Aircraft Background:
- HZ-RXX is not part of Riyadh Air’s substantial order of 72 brand-new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners.
- The test aircraft arrived in Saudi Arabia on January 15, 2025, contributing to the airline’s preparatory efforts.
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Future Orders:
- Riyadh Air is expected to make an additional widebody aircraft order in Q1 2025, further expanding its fleet capabilities.
- Pilot Training Enhancements:
- On January 27, 2025, Riyadh Air announced the acquisition of an operational certificate from the General Authority of Civil Aviation of Saudi Arabia (GACA). This certificate allows the airline to utilize a state-of-the-art Boeing 787-9 RX7000 full flight simulator for pilot training, which will bolster their operational readiness.
What’s Next for Riyadh Air?
As Riyadh Air gears up for its commercial debut, the successful maiden flight of the Boeing 787-9 is a promising indicator of the airline’s future. With rigorous training and fleet expansion plans in place, the airline aims to establish itself as a major player in the global aviation market.
For more information on Riyadh Air and its developments, please visit AeroTime or explore our articles on aviation innovations and airline news.
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