Saudi Arabia's new airline, Riyadh Air, announced on Tuesday its order of 60 Airbus A321-family narrowbody jets as it moves forward with plans to begin operations in 2025. The deal, unveiled at the Future Investment Initiative forum in Riyadh, increases Riyadh Air's total jet orders to 132, adding to last year’s order of 39 Boeing 787 Dreamliners with options for 33 more.
The A321 order, valued at approximately $4 billion after standard industry discounts, is based on estimated delivery prices from aviation data provider Cirium Ascend. This move comes after months of speculation regarding the airline’s next steps, including reports suggesting a preference for at least 100 Boeing 737 MAX jets. However, Riyadh Air had previously indicated that it was exploring options with both Boeing and Airbus before finalizing its choice for the narrowbody aircraft purchase.
Riyadh Air's expansion plan is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader ambition to establish itself as a global aviation hub, positioning the new carrier as a significant player in the region’s growing aviation market.