Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s start-up global airline, has signed a series of strategic partnerships with major carriers across the globe, signaling its intent to rapidly expand its reach ahead of its planned 2025 launch. These agreements encompass codesharing, loyalty programs, and potential joint ventures, promising enhanced connectivity and travel benefits for passengers.
The most significant of these partnerships is with Delta Air Lines, which will become Riyadh Air’s exclusive partner in North America. The agreement, signed at Delta’s Atlanta headquarters, paves the way for future nonstop Delta service between the United States and Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport.
This partnership with Riyadh Air will further Delta’s mission of connecting the world and open an array of new choices, benefits, and destinations for our customers traveling to and from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Delta CEO Ed Bastian
Riyadh Air CEO Tony Douglas echoed the sentiment, stating, “We look forward to enjoying a very warm and productive relationship with Delta Air Lines… Riyadh Air and Delta Air Lines share common goals and pursue the highest standards in many areas including guest experience, loyalty, and sustainability, built upon great networks and strong connectivity.”
Further strengthening its global footprint, Riyadh Air has also inked agreements with EgyptAir, China Eastern Airlines, Singapore Airlines, and Air China. These partnerships will offer Riyadh Air passengers greater access to destinations across Africa, Asia, and the South Pacific.
The agreement with EgyptAir, signed at the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Annual General Meeting in Dubai, aims to “unlock new travel options for airline guests” and provide “a greater choice when traveling between Riyadh and Cairo,” according to Douglas.
The China Eastern Airlines partnership focuses on tapping into the rapidly growing Chinese travel market.
This MoU marks a significant milestone for Riyadh Air as China is a hugely important market for our future network.
Riyadh Air CEO Tony Douglas
“By closely collaborating with China Eastern Airlines, a leading player in the Chinese market, we can unlock new travel opportunities and drive economic growth across both countries,” he added.
The agreements with Singapore Airlines and Air China, also signed at the IATA AGM, will enhance connectivity to Southeast Asia and further cement ties between Saudi Arabia and China.
These strategic alliances reflect Riyadh Air’s commitment to establishing itself as a major player in the global aviation industry. The partnerships leverage the strengths of established airlines while providing Riyadh Air with immediate access to a vast network of destinations, bolstering its appeal to international travelers.
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