The Airlines of Saudi Arabia: A Comprehensive Guide

Saudi Arabia is home to several airlines that cater to both domestic and international travel. From large international carriers to budget airlines, the country’s aviation sector is a hub for regional and global air traffic. Whether you’re an aviation enthusiast or a plane spotter, this guide offers a quick overview of the main airlines in Saudi Arabia, with a focus on their operations and aircraft fleets.

Saudia (Saudi Arabian Airlines)

Photo (c) Alec Wilson

Saudia is the flag carrier of Saudi Arabia and one of the largest airlines in the Middle East. Founded in 1945, it operates flights to over 90 destinations across the Middle East, Asia, Europe, Africa, and North America. Saudia offers both premium and budget options through its mainline services and subsidiaries. Its luxurious in-flight experience, especially in business and first class, has earned it a reputation among international travelers.

Fleet Summary:

• Boeing 777-300ER
• Boeing 787-9 and 787-10 Dreamliner
• Airbus A320 and A321/A321neo
• Airbus A330-300

It also flies Boeing 777-200F freighters.

Flynas

Konstantin von Wedelstaedt (GFDL 1.2 <http://www.gnu.org/licenses/old-licenses/fdl-1.2.html> or GFDL 1.2 <http://www.gnu.org/licenses/old-licenses/fdl-1.2.html>), via Wikimedia Commons

Flynas is a Saudi low-cost carrier that started operations in 2007. It has made a name for itself in the domestic and regional markets by offering affordable flights across the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. Flynas provides a no-frills flying experience with the option to pay for extras such as seat selection and onboard meals. Its modern fleet and customer-centric approach have contributed to its rapid growth.

Fleet Summary:

• Airbus A320 and A320neo
• Airbus A321neo
• Airbus A330-300

Flyadeal

Sg578018, CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Flyadeal is another low-cost airline, owned by Saudia, that focuses on domestic and short-haul international routes. Launched in 2017, the airline has rapidly expanded its presence in the Saudi market, appealing to budget-conscious travelers. Flyadeal offers an all-economy class configuration, prioritizing efficiency and competitive pricing.

Fleet Summary:

• Airbus A320 and A320neo

Riyadh Air: A New Saudi Arabian Airline

Riyadh Air is an upcoming airline backed by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF). Scheduled to launch operations in 2025, Riyadh Air aims to establish itself as a global airline, positioning Riyadh as a major international hub.

The airline plans to operate a fleet of modern, fuel-efficient aircraft like the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, and serve destinations across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. Although specific routes and fleet details have yet to be fully revealed, it’s clear that Riyadh Air intends to make a significant impact on the global aviation market.

Other Saudi Arabian Operators

Adam Moreira (AEMoreira042281), CC BY-SA 4.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

As well as its main airlines, Saudi Arabia is home to a growing number of private flight operators who each have fleets of large airliners, often in VIP configuration.

One of the largest is that of the Saudi Arabian Royal Flight and its Air Force. Between them, they operate a wide range of aircraft, including:

• Airbus A330
• Airbus A340-200
• Boeing 707-300
• Boeing 737-700/900 BBJ
• Boeing 747-300/400
• Saab 2000

Other operators include Al-Atheer Aviation, Alpha Star Aviation, Aviation Horizons, Desert Wings Aviation, Kalair, Mukamalah Aviation and PrivatAir Saudi Arabia.

Title image: Anna Zvereva