Boeing announced on Friday that it has delivered the first two Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft to Riyadh Air, marking a major milestone for Saudi Arabia's newest national carrier as it prepares to begin commercial operations.

The two aircraft arrived in Riyadh after delivery from Boeing, becoming the first passenger jets in Riyadh Air's fleet. The airline plans to use the 787-9 on both regional and long-haul routes as part of Saudi Arabia's broader strategy to expand its aviation sector and strengthen global connectivity.

Riyadh Air, launched in 2023 and backed by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), has placed orders for up to 72 Boeing 787 Dreamliners. The aircraft are expected to play a central role in the carrier's plans to connect the Kingdom with major destinations across Europe, Asia, Africa, and North America.

"To see our very first custom-built 787 Dreamliner airplanes touch down in Riyadh is a historic moment for us and a momentous day for Saudi aviation," Riyadh Air Chief Executive Officer Tony Douglas said in a statement.

Douglas said the airline was preparing to establish Riyadh as a new global aviation gateway and expressed confidence in the carrier's future growth prospects.

Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and Chief Executive Officer Stephanie Pope said the Dreamliner would provide the operational flexibility and fuel efficiency needed to support Riyadh Air's network ambitions.

"Riyadh Air is bringing to life a vision of modern world-class travel, and we are delighted to support them as they open new possibilities for the Kingdom and the world," Pope said.

The delivery comes as Saudi Arabia accelerates its efforts to expand its aviation and tourism sectors under the Vision 2030 economic diversification programme. The Kingdom aims to attract 150 million visitors annually and handle 330 million passengers by the end of the decade.

Riyadh Air has said it intends to serve more than 100 destinations by 2030. Initial routes are expected to include London, Cairo, and Jeddah, with the Dreamliner fleet providing the range and efficiency required for both regional and intercontinental operations.

For passengers, the arrival of the aircraft signals progress toward the launch of a new full-service carrier that could increase travel options to and from Saudi Arabia. Industry analysts view Riyadh Air as a key component of the Kingdom's strategy to position itself as a major global aviation hub alongside established regional airlines.

The delivery of the first two Dreamliners represents the beginning of Riyadh Air's fleet build-up, with additional aircraft expected to join the airline in the coming years as it works toward its long-term network expansion goals and supports Saudi Arabia's wider economic and tourism ambitions.

Source: Boeing PR