Ambitious airline startup Riyadh Air has been promising that it will launch flights before the end of 2025. The carrier’s launch timeline had been delayed, due to Boeing 787 delivery delays (which all airlines are dealing with), presumably combined with some delays with installing the carrier’s custom interiors, given all the supply chain and certification…
Continue reading: Riyadh Air Will Operate London Flights Soon, But They’re Invitation Only
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Lol did he literally have AI write the press release??
“This isn’t just a launch; it’s a tangible realization of a vision to connect Saudi Arabia to the world, a core pillar of Saudi Vision 2030. Our commitment to begin operations in 2025 is being fulfilled. This rigorous flight program on Jamila allows us to fine-tune every detail, ensuring a seamless, reliable, and world-class experience. This carefully sequenced approach is our pathway to perfect, and we are now incredibly close to full operations with further destinations to be announced in the coming weeks as our new aircraft are delivered.”
Could this be the Saudi way of keeping the infidel off the startup flights to ensure no negative publicity?
Control the passenger manifest and ensure control the publicity …. 🙂
While that language is unlikely what they will have used, as non Saudi Muslims aren't allowed on either, the reason is the most likely.
Also it would be helpful as the people let on will be indicative of their target market and so any feedback would be more useful than a random vlogger (not in their target market) looking for a headline.
Finally I think it should help the crew get practice with operational flow with a low load factor.
That “very minor market” constitutes QA’s largest population of premium travelers 🙂
It seems like they been planning flights for years.
Now the first “scheduled” one isn’t even using their own aircraft and isn’t available to the general public. It’s purely to retain a slot.
Imagine if there’s a tech delay from London they will avoid paying compensation as everyone is travelling on free tickets
How long does it take to get ready for their full operations?
If they knew it was going to take longer, then maybe they should've held off on the marketing and fanfare.
The reason why this feels weird is because they've been talking about this airline for several years, still with nothing to show for it.
“Why anyone gets so excited by this new player entering a (very minor) market is beyond me.”
Welcome. You’re new here.
Hardware (meaning anircraft) aside, they’re still starting service.
That new lounge isn’t “nothing.”
I won't lie, for me Riyadh Air has probably been the most interesting airline start-up that I have seen since Starlux pre-covid, because unlike many others, like Global Airlines, this one seems more likely to be successful, and it has a focus on luxury as well. I can't wait to fly them at some point.
how is it focus on luxury? theyll have the same crappy small economy as everyone else