Key Points
- Riyadh Air and Delta Air Lines signed a preliminary agreement to expand networks and potentially establish a codeshare.
- Delta will be the exclusive North American partner for Riyadh Air and plans to launch nonstop U.S.-Riyadh flights.
- Riyadh Air aims to boost Saudi tourism with global ambitions despite challenges in securing airport slots and supply chain constraints.
Summary
Riyadh Air has signed a preliminary agreement with Delta Air Lines to enhance its global presence, aiming to start flights next year. This partnership will allow both airlines to expand their networks and potentially turn into a codeshare. Delta will be Riyadh Air’s exclusive North American partner and plans to launch nonstop services between the U.S. and Riyadh. Riyadh Air, funded by Saudi Arabia’s public investment fund, is part of a broader plan to boost tourism to the Kingdom and has also established partnerships with Singapore Airlines, EgyptAir, Air China, and China Eastern. CEO Tony Douglas discussed the startup’s global ambitions and the challenges of securing slots in heavily constrained airports, as well as supply chain issues with plane manufacturers Airbus and Boeing, for which commitments have already been secured.