In a strategic move to enhance its operational capacity and support Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030 objectives, Saudia Group signed a significant agreement today (Wednesday) with French aerospace giant Airbus to acquire 20 wide-body A330neo aircraft. The deal includes 10 confirmed planes dedicated to the group’s low-cost carrier, flyadeal. Known for its superior efficiency, extended range, and operational flexibility, the A330neo model aligns perfectly with Saudia Group’s expansion strategy, aimed at increasing destinations and strengthening its fleet capabilities.
The signing ceremony took place at Airbus’ manufacturing facility in Toulouse, France, with key executives in attendance, including Eng. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, and Christian Scherer, CEO of Airbus Commercial Aircraft. The agreement was formally signed by Saleh Eid, Assistant Director General of Fleet Management at Saudia Group, and Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Executive Vice President of Commercial Aircraft Sales at Airbus.
The delivery schedule for the confirmed aircraft has been set, with the first plane expected to arrive in 2027 and the final one by 2029.
Eng. Ibrahim Al-Omar emphasized the significance of this agreement, noting that it continues the group’s ambitious fleet modernization and growth plan. Last year, Saudia Group secured another major order with Airbus for 105 aircraft, underscoring its commitment to the broader national strategies encompassed within Saudi Vision 2030. These plans aim to connect the Kingdom to 250 destinations, transport 330 million passengers, and attract 150 million tourists.
Al-Omar highlighted that the new deal aligns with operational feasibility studies and supports Saudia Group’s goals of enhancing operational efficiency, expanding its fleet, and optimizing network management and maintenance systems under its new strategic direction.
Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Executive Vice President of Commercial Aircraft Sales at Airbus, lauded the order as a key milestone in supporting Saudi Arabia’s aviation ambitions. “Saudia Group’s selection of the A330neo for flyadeal marks a critical step in unlocking new long-haul markets and attracting new customer segments,” he said. He added that the A330neo’s next-generation efficiency, proven flexibility, and superior passenger experience make it the ideal aircraft to support Saudia Group’s strategic growth and solidify its position as a global leader in aviation.
Currently, Saudia Group operates a fleet of 194 aircraft serving commercial, economic, cargo, and logistics sectors. With this latest order, the group plans to introduce an additional 191 new aircraft in the coming years, further cementing its role as a key player in the global aviation industry.
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