A New Era Takes Flight
The AOC serves as the cornerstone of Riyadh Air’s future operations, validating that the airline meets all regulatory and safety criteria required for commercial service. The certification follows nearly a year of rigorous scrutiny, including over 200 hours of flight testing and comprehensive technical inspections by GACA teams. The process ensured compliance with both Saudi regulatory protocols and global standards under the Chicago Convention.
Building the Blueprint for a Global Airline
Riyadh Air isn’t just another airline—it’s a centerpiece in Saudi Arabia’s aviation transformation. By 2030, the carrier aims to connect travelers to over 100 destinations worldwide, backed by an ambitious fleet plan exceeding 130 aircraft. Its vision aligns with the Kingdom’s broader diversification efforts under Vision 2030, projected to:
- Add nearly $20 billion to Saudi Arabia’s non-oil GDP
- Generate over 200,000 job opportunities
- Cement the country’s position as a top-tier international aviation hub
The AOC comes on the heels of the Economic License issued in June 2023, completing the foundation for full-scale airline operations.
Saudi Skies Soar Higher Than Ever
The certification of Riyadh Air coincides with explosive growth across the Kingdom’s aviation sector. In 2024 alone:
- Passenger volume soared past 128 million, up 15% year-over-year and 25% above pre-pandemic figures
- Annual flight operations exceeded 905,000, a rise of 11%
- Global route connections expanded 16% to over 170 destinations
- Air cargo throughput jumped 34%, hitting 1.2 million tons
These benchmarks signal not just recovery, but a new golden age for Saudi air travel, firmly placing the Kingdom on the global aviation map.
Facing Headwinds Before the Runway
While Riyadh Air now holds all required certifications, the airline’s launch timeline has shifted again—this time to the final quarter of 2025. Delays in Boeing 787 Dreamliner production have postponed aircraft deliveries, affecting readiness.
Currently, seven aircraft are under construction at Boeing’s facility in Charleston, South Carolina. Powered by General Electric GEnX-1B engines, the jets are advancing through assembly but are not expected to reach Riyadh Air before late 2025 or early 2026.
Readiness in Motion
In the meantime, Riyadh Air is staying ahead of the curve. The airline has secured a leased 787-9 Dreamliner to support pilot training, cabin crew simulation, and technical operations. Ground handling has also been addressed through a SAR 500 million agreement with Saudi Ground Services Company, spanning three years with an optional two-year extension.
Ready to Redefine the Skies
With certification complete and preparations intensifying, Riyadh Air is positioned to redefine modern air travel from the Middle East. As it inches closer to liftoff, the airline represents more than a new carrier—it symbolizes a bold step toward Saudi Arabia’s future as a global gateway for commerce, tourism, and innovation in flight.
Tags: Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), Riyadh Air
