Order #2: Riyadh Air places firm order for 25 Airbus A350-1000 aircraft
New Saudia carrier Riyadh Air has placed an order for 25 Airbus A350-1000 aircraft. This announcement comes after much speculation about the potential of an order. Some thought it might have been a large order for the A330-900neo.
We finally have our answer and the airline will be adding the A350 to its widebody fleet. Adam Boukadida, Chief Financial Officer of Riyadh Air said: “This order marks a significant step forward in building a world-class airline that reflects the ambitions of Vision 2030.”
“The A350-1000 will bring outstanding efficiency and comfort to our fleet, supporting our sustainability goals and enabling Riyadh Air to offer a premium experience while connecting Saudi Arabia to the world.”
”It’s a clear signal of our intent to shape the future of air travel. It contributes meaningfully to the Kingdom’s fast-growing aviation ecosystem.”
The order does have the potential to be increased to up to 50 A350’s in total. With Boeing still staring down the barrel at possible delays with the 777X and with recent issues surrounding the Dreamliner, this could be the start of a move to a more Airbus dominated widebody fleet for the carrier. This is just speculation at this time.
Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business commented on the news at the press announcement saying: “We are proud to extend our strategic partnership with Riyadh Air as it continues to build a pioneering carrier for the Kingdom.”
“As the long-range leader, the A350-1000 will provide unrivalled efficiency, range and passenger comfort. It is the ideal choice to support the airline’s ambitious growth plans,”
“and Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives to enhance global connectivity and economic diversification,” said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business.
The Airbus A350 continues to be a widely loved and wanted widebody aircraft. It has certainly been a major success so far for Airbus. They have now seen, in just this Airshow alone, 47 orders for the A350 and A350 freighter.
At the end of May 2025, the A350 Family has won over 1,390 firm orders from more than 60 customers worldwide. Additionally, there are 657 aircraft in service on long, medium and short haul routes around the world.
