Riyadh Air Files for U.S. Permit as It Scales Toward 100-Destination Network
Photo Caption: Riyadh Air is due to receive a mix of Airbus and Boeing aircraft. Riyadh Air
Skift Take
Repeated delays, many outside its control, have kept Riyadh Air as a glamorous brand rather than a working airline. The U.S. permit filing is a tangible step toward actually getting into the skies.
Riyadh Air has applied for an operational permit to fly to the U.S., the airline confirmed to Skift, marking a significant step in its push to establish itself as a major long-haul carrier ahead of full commercial launch.
“We have applied for an operational permit to fly to the U.S. That’s part of our operational plans for the future,” a spokesperson said. “These routes will be targeted to fly on the Airbus A350 widebody aircraft once they start arriving.”
The airline has also expanded its announced network, adding Jeddah, Manchester, and Madrid to previously confirmed destinations London, Dubai, and Cairo. “As operations grow, we will continue evaluating slot opportunities at key global airports in line with our network and fleet strategy,” sa
