Saudia Introduces New Flights to Vienna, Athens, and Bali

Saudi Arabian Airlines Expands International Network with New Routes to Bali, Vienna, and Athens

Saudi Arabian Airlines, commonly known as Saudia (SV), has made a significant leap in its international operations by introducing new direct flights to Bali (DPS), Vienna (VIE), and Athens (ATH). This expansion is a key component of Saudia’s ambitious growth strategy aimed at enhancing connectivity and attracting more global travelers by 2025.

The airline’s international passenger traffic has seen a remarkable increase of 16% year-over-year in 2024, showcasing Saudia’s rising prominence as a vital connector between East and West. With this latest expansion, Saudia continues to solidify its growing appeal among international travelers.

Expanding Connectivity: New Flights to Bali

Saudia has launched a scheduled service to Bali (DPS), offering three weekly flights from Jeddah (JED). This initiative marks Bali as Saudia’s second regular destination in Indonesia, following Jakarta (CGK). The inaugural flight SV856 took off from King Abdulaziz International Airport on March 31, utilizing a Boeing B787 Dreamliner, which is known for its efficiency and comfort.

• Flight Coordination: The flight schedules have been meticulously planned to connect seamlessly with Saudia’s extensive domestic and international network, including services provided by fellow SkyTeam alliance members.
• In-Flight Experience: Passengers can enjoy advanced in-flight entertainment, spacious seating, and enhanced services on the Boeing B787 Dreamliner.

Direct Flights to Vienna and Athens

In addition to its Bali service, Saudia has initiated direct flights to Vienna (VIE), operating three times weekly from Jeddah (JED) using an Airbus A320. Plans are underway to extend these services from Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport (RUH) starting in June.

Moreover, the airline has introduced seasonal flights to Athens (ATH), Greece’s capital, operating three times a week. The first flight from Riyadh took off on April 2, also operated by an Airbus A320. Saudia plans to launch additional flights from Jeddah to Athens beginning in June 2025.

“This new destination enhances Saudia’s network of over 100 destinations across four continents, supporting national goals in tourism, entertainment, and religious travel,” stated a Saudia spokesperson.

Broader Expansion Plans for 2025

These new routes are part of a comprehensive growth plan announced in February, which includes the addition of 11 new destinations in 2025. Notable upcoming destinations include Venice (VCE), Larnaca (LCA), and Nice (NCE), among others.

The airline’s impressive performance in 2024, marked by a 16% increase in international passenger traffic, aligns with Saudi Arabia’s National Tourism Strategy. This strategy aims to attract 150 million visitors annually by 2030 and create approximately 1.6 million jobs.

Currently, Saudia operates a fleet of 147 aircraft from Boeing and Airbus, with plans to enhance its capacity and route network by adding 118 new planes. This fleet expansion is crucial for enhancing its global market presence.

Supporting the Kingdom’s Air Connectivity Program

Saudia’s new services further bolster its role in Saudi Arabia’s Air Connectivity Program, which has rolled out over 60 new direct routes since its inception in 2021. According to the General Authority of Civil Aviation, flight operations in Saudi Arabia reached around 905,000 in 2024, marking an 11% increase compared to the previous year.

• Flight Statistics: This figure includes approximately 474,000 domestic flights and 431,000 international flights, reflecting a 20% increase in air connectivity linking Saudi Arabia to over 170 global destinations.
• Daily Operations: Saudia operates more than 530 daily flights, continuing to expand its international reach and enhance its position in the global travel market.

In a recent move to strengthen international partnerships, Saudia signed an agreement with Indonesia’s Ministry of Religious Affairs to enhance pilgrim transportation and services for the 2025 Hajj season.

As Saudia continues to grow, we invite you to share your thoughts on this expansion or explore related articles about the airline’s future plans and international travel opportunities.