In a move poised to significantly strengthen Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector, Saudia Group, the parent company of the Kingdom’s national carrier Saudia and budget airline flyadeal, has signed a firm order for an additional 105 A320neo Family aircraft from Airbus. This substantial order, comprising 12 A320neo and 93 A321neo jets, brings Saudia Group’s total Airbus A320neo backlog to 144 aircraft.
The announcement took place at the Future Aviation Forum in Riyadh and was witnessed by prominent figures including H.E. Saleh bin Nasser AlJasser (Minister of Transport and Logistic Services, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia), H.E. Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar (Director General of Saudia Group), and Benoît de Saint-Exupéry (Executive Vice President Sales, Airbus Commercial Aircraft).
This strategic acquisition aligns with Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030 plan, a national transformation program driving economic diversification and tourism growth.
“Saudia has ambitious operational objectives to meet growing demand. We are expanding our network and capacity across over 100 destinations on four continents, with further plans in the pipeline. The success of Vision 2030 is attracting more visitors, tourists, entrepreneurs, and pilgrims each year. This fueled our decision to secure this significant deal, which will create jobs, boost local content, and contribute positively to the national economy,” according to H.E. Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar.
The A320neo Family aircraft are renowned for their exceptional fuel efficiency, superior economics, and high passenger comfort.
“The addition of these A320neo Family aircraft will significantly contribute to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals. This order supports Saudia Group’s strategy to enhance the Kingdom’s aviation capabilities. Both airlines will benefit from the A320neo Family’s features, including lower noise levels, reduced fuel burn and emissions, and the widest single-aisle cabin for optimal passenger comfort,” said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry of Airbus.
This substantial order aligns with the Saudi National Tourism Strategy, which aims to attract over 150 million tourists by 2030. The A320neo Family aircraft will play a crucial role in achieving this ambitious goal by empowering Saudia Group to expand its network and cater to the growing influx of visitors.
The A320 Family is celebrated for its environmental performance. The entire family is certified to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), and Airbus has pledged to make all its aircraft 100% SAF-compatible by 2030. This aligns with Saudi Arabia’s commitment to sustainable development and eco-friendly tourism practices.