Riyadh – Mubasher: Saudia Group and Airbus have inked the largest aircraft deal in Saudi aviation history, according to a press release.
The two entities penned the deal on the slides of the Future Aviation Forum 2024, which kicked off at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center in Riyadh on 20 May.
The agreement, which includes 105 aircraft, marks a significant milestone for the Saudi aviation industry and the wider MENA region.
It also includes A320neo and A321neo models, with these aircraft being distributed between Saudia and flyadeal, the group's low-cost carrier.
Saudia will acquire 54 A321neo aircraft, while flyadeal will receive 12 A320neo and 39 A321neo aircraft.
In line with the Saudi Vision 2030, the new aircraft will back Saudia Group's objectives to connect the world with the Kingdom by increasing guests’ capacity to 330 million. This is in addition to expanding destinations to 250 and attracting 150 million visits by 2030.
Saleh Al Jasser, the Minister of Transport and Logistics Services, indicated: "This agreement is one of the enablers of achieving the objectives of the National Transport and Logistics Strategy.”
“It will contribute to enhancing the operational performance of Saudia, increasing flights and seat capacity, and launching new destinations,” Al Jasser continued.
He pointed out: “Furthermore, it aims to connect the world to the Kingdom in line with the significant transformation witnessed by the aviation sector under Saudi Vision 2030, while also reaffirming our commitment to providing the best services that enhance the travel experience."
Ibrahim Al Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, commented: "Saudia has ambitious operational objectives to meet growing demand. We are increasing flights and seat capacity across our existing 100+ destinations on four continents, with plans for further expansion.”
Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Executive Vice President of Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business, said: “The new additions of the A320neo family aircraft will play a vital role in contributing to Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030 plan.”
“It will enable Saudia Group’s strategy to advance the Kingdom’s aviation capabilities while enabling both airlines to benefit from the A320neo Family’s exceptional efficiency, superior economics, the highest level of passenger comfort as well as lower fuel-burn and emissions,” he added.
