Riyadh Air has formally entered the air cargo market with the launch of Riyadh Cargo, activating belly-hold freight operations across its widebody fleet. The announcement, made on January 21, marks a key milestone in the Saudi Arabian start-up carrier’s phased commercial rollout and highlights cargo as a strategic pillar alongside passenger operations.
India, UAE, And Saudi Arabia Set To Lead Aviation Growth as the global airline industry enters its fourth consecutive year of profitability, supported by resilient demand, lower fuel prices, and sustained economic expansion.
Air India and Saudia have signed a new codeshare agreement that will take effect in February 2026, strengthening air connectivity between India and Saudi Arabia while expanding onward travel options across both networks.
Etihad Airways has expanded its presence in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with the launch of direct flights between Abu Dhabi and Medina, reinforcing its growing regional network and commitment to serving religious, business, and leisure travelers. The first flight, operated earlier this week, departed fully booked, underlining strong market demand for the new route.
Delta Air Lines has announced the launch of a landmark new route between its primary hub in Atlanta (ATL) and Riyadh (RUH), set to begin in October 2026. The move marks Delta’s entry into the Middle East market, furthering the airline’s long-term global expansion strategy and aligning with the growing commercial and economic partnership between the United States and Saudi Arabia.
Aviation Blade Services (ABS) has entered into a strategic partnership with GDC Middle East (GDCME) to establish a new helicopter rotor blade repair facility in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This initiative represents a major step forward in developing the Kingdom’s aerospace infrastructure and enhancing its ability to provide in-country maintenance solutions.
Serhan Ulga, one of Turkey’s most prominent finance executives, has been appointed Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Saudia Airlines, marking a significant step in his international career. Ulga, who previously served as CFO of Pegasus Airlines, will now lead the financial strategies of Saudi Arabia’s national carrier, bringing his extensive expertise to a global aviation stage.
Riyadh Air is preparing to welcome its first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner (registration HZ-RXX), marking a significant step towards the airline’s operational readiness. The leased aircraft, painted in the carrier’s striking pearl livery, will be officially unveiled at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Lufthansa has announced the return of its nonstop service between Munich and Riyadh, commencing 26 October 2025. The route will operate three times a week, departing Munich at 21:45 and arriving in Riyadh at 04:50 local time the following day. The return flight departs Riyadh at 06:25, arriving back in Munich at 10:25, allowing passengers smooth onward connections across Lufthansa’s…
Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s newly established airline, will commence daily flights to London Heathrow Airport starting October 26, 2025, marking a major milestone in its international expansion strategy. The service will be operated by Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft, reflecting the airline’s commitment to offering a modern and premium travel experience as part of its Winter 2025 (W25) schedule.
