Riyadh Air has firmed up an order for six additional Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, increasing its total firm commitment for the type to 31 jets as the Saudi Arabian airline accelerates its international expansion plans. The agreement was announced at the Farnborough International Airshow and forms part of the airline’s original commitment for up to 50 A350-1000 aircraft made in 2025.
The additional aircraft will support Riyadh Air’s ambition to serve more than 100 global destinations by 2030 while helping deliver the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. The airline will also become the first carrier in Saudi Arabia to operate the Airbus A350-1000.
The latest order continues Riyadh Air’s rapid fleet expansion as the new premium international airline builds capacity for long haul operations. The A350-1000 is expected to play a central role in connecting Saudi Arabia with key international markets while supporting growing passenger demand.
Adam Boukadida, Chief Financial Officer of Riyadh Air, said the additional aircraft demonstrate the airline’s confidence in its long term strategy and the future of Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector.
“The firm-up of these additional aircraft reflects Riyadh Air’s continued confidence in its growth trajectory and in the future of Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector,” said Adam Boukadida, Chief Financial Officer of Riyadh Air.
He added: “Increasing our A350-1000 commitment to 31 aircraft strengthens the foundation of our future network and supports our ambition to serve more than 100 global destinations by 2030 while delivering a premium guest experience.”
The agreement expands the airline’s confirmed A350-1000 fleet to 31 aircraft from an original commitment covering up to 50 jets. The aircraft will complement Riyadh Air’s wider fleet strategy as it develops a global network linking Saudi Arabia with destinations across Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas.
Airbus said the A350-1000 combines long range capability with improved operating efficiency, making it well suited for intercontinental routes. The aircraft is capable of flying up to 9,700 nautical miles, or approximately 18,000 kilometres, without stopping, allowing airlines to operate nonstop services between distant cities.
The aircraft also incorporates advanced aerodynamics, lightweight composite materials and the latest generation Rolls-Royce engines. According to Airbus, these technologies reduce fuel burn, operating costs and carbon dioxide emissions by 25% compared with previous generation competitor aircraft.
Passengers are expected to benefit from the A350’s Airspace cabin, which has been designed to improve comfort on long haul flights through a quieter cabin environment and modern onboard features.
Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business, welcomed the expanded commitment.
“We are proud to deepen our partnership with Riyadh Air as it continues to build a pioneering carrier for the Kingdom,” said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business.
He added: “This additional A350-1000 commitment reflects the airline’s confidence in the aircraft’s exceptional efficiency, range and passenger appeal. As Riyadh Air advances its ambitious growth plans, the A350-1000 will play an important role in supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives and helping position the Kingdom as a leading international aviation hub.”
The order underlines Riyadh Air’s strategy of investing in modern widebody aircraft capable of supporting premium long haul services. As a key part of the Kingdom’s aviation development programme, the airline is expected to contribute to Saudi Arabia’s wider tourism and economic diversification goals while strengthening the country’s position as an international aviation hub.
Airbus said that by the end of June 2026, the A350 Family had secured 1,595 firm orders from 68 customers worldwide, making it one of the world’s most successful widebody aircraft programmes.
