On 23 January 2025, Riyadh Air successfully completed its first test flight (Flight RXI5014) from Riyadh to Istanbul. The aircraft used for the test flight was an old Oman Air plane, ‘Jamila’ (HZ-RXX), which was acquired as a technical backup due to delays in the delivery of Boeing aircraft. While this aircraft is not directly associated with Riyadh Air’s 72 new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner planes ordered in March 2023, it is being used for training and preparatory purposes. Although ‘Jamila’ has high-quality interiors, it does not yet feature Riyadh Air’s final cabin design.
It was reported that the test aircraft arrived in Saudi Arabia on 13 January 2025, where it was welcomed by Riyadh Air management at King Khalid International Airport. In addition, Yasir El-Rumayyan, Governor of the Saudi Public Investment Fund, oversaw the inspection of the aircraft. This first flight is seen as a significant step in Riyadh Air’s efforts to launch operations in 2025.
Strategic Partnership Between Riyadh Air and Turkish Airlines
It was revealed that Istanbul was chosen for Riyadh Air’s test flight for a reason. Last year, Riyadh Air signed a strategic partnership agreement with Turkish Airlines to establish seamless interline and code-sharing services between the two airlines. This agreement will allow passengers to access over 130 destinations from the hubs in Riyadh and Istanbul. Additionally, the two airlines plan to create synergies in reciprocal loyalty programmes and digital technologies.
The agreement, signed by Turkish Airlines’ Investment and Technology Officer Levent Konukcu and Riyadh Air CEO Tony Douglas, aims to strengthen ties between Turkey and Saudi Arabia. Konukcu stated that this partnership would enhance customer travel options and reinforce relations between the two countries. Riyadh Air CEO Tony Douglas expressed that they would expand their global connectivity through Turkish Airlines’ extensive network.
Riyadh Air’s Growth Plans and Delays
Riyadh Air has partnered with eight different airlines, placing orders for 132 aircraft, including 60 Boeing 787-9 and A321neo planes. Furthermore, Riyadh Air is planning to place more orders for wide-body aircraft in 2025 to expand its fleet to 200 aircraft.
However, Riyadh Air’s commercial launch is expected to be delayed until late 2025. This delay is a significant issue for Saudi Arabia, as it could impact the progress made under Vision 2030. Riyadh Air aims to become a key airline carrier to meet the goal of 300 million annual visitors, which will require substantial fleet expansion. The delays could present obstacles to this growth trajectory.
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