Riyadh Air Secures AOC, Boosts Saudi Aviation Vision 2030

Saudi Arabia’s Aviation Ambitions Take Flight with Riyadh Air Certification

Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector reached a critical milestone as Riyadh Air received its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) in April 2025. This achievement positions the new national carrier to become a key player in the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 economic diversification plan, which aims to transform Saudi Arabia into a global logistics hub and triple annual passenger traffic to 330 million by 2030.

The 11-month certification process involved rigorous safety checks and operational audits, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s commitment to meeting international aviation standards. As the first new full-service airline launched under Vision 2030, Riyadh Air represents a $30 billion investment that could reshape Middle Eastern air travel dynamics.

The Certification Journey

GACA’s certification process involved 200+ flight test hours across Saudi Arabia’s varied terrain, from coastal Jeddah to desert regions. Technical teams evaluated 147 operational procedures while training 85% Saudi-national pilots and crew. The airline delayed its launch from Q1 to Q3 2025 to complete crew certification and finalize its premium service offerings.

Aviation Minister Saleh Al-Jasser noted the certification “validates our commitment to surpassing ICAO safety benchmarks.” This comes as Saudi airports implement new biometric systems and AI-powered air traffic control upgrades to handle projected growth.

“Riyadh Air isn’t just another airline – it’s the physical manifestation of our national transformation,” said CEO Tony Douglas during the certification ceremony.

Fleet Strategy and Market Positioning

The carrier’s $17 billion fleet order includes 39 Boeing 787-9s and 60 Airbus A321neos, with plans to operate 200+ aircraft by 2035. Initial routes will connect Jeddah to London and Kuala Lumpur, expanding to 100+ destinations across Asia, Europe and North America within five years.

Analysts note Riyadh Air’s narrowbody-heavy fleet (70% of orders) targets point-to-point routes differently from Gulf competitors’ hub models. This strategy aligns with Saudi goals to develop secondary cities like NEOM and AlUla as tourism destinations.

Economic Transformation Through Aviation

Riyadh Air expects to create 200,000 jobs directly and through supply chains, with 50% female workforce participation targets. The airline forms part of a $100 billion aviation infrastructure program including new airports in Qiddiya and Red Sea Project zones.

Recent GACA data shows Saudi air traffic growing 15% year-over-year, outpacing Middle Eastern rivals. Cargo operations saw 34% growth as the Kingdom positions itself as a Eurasian logistics bridge.

“Every Riyadh Air flight will carry our national ambition on its wings,” stated GACA President Abdulaziz Al-Duailej at the launch event.

Challenges Ahead

Industry observers question if Saudi Arabia can achieve its 2030 targets given global pilot shortages and slot constraints at major airports. Riyadh Air faces stiff competition from established carriers controlling 60% of Middle East-Europe traffic.

The airline’s success may hinge on developing Jeddah as a premium transit hub. Recent airport upgrades increased JED’s capacity to 60 million passengers annually, with plans for 100 million by 2030 through automated baggage systems and AI-driven passenger processing.

Conclusion

Riyadh Air’s certification marks a new chapter in Middle Eastern aviation, combining national ambition with technical precision. As the carrier prepares for its Q3 2025 launch, its performance will test Saudi Arabia’s ability to translate infrastructure investments into operational excellence.

The coming years will reveal whether Riyadh Air can disrupt established travel patterns while supporting broader economic goals. With fleet deliveries accelerating and tourism visas simplifying, Saudi Arabia appears determined to claim its place as aviation’s next superpower.

FAQ

When will Riyadh Air begin commercial flights?
Scheduled passenger service begins Q3 2025, starting with regional routes before expanding internationally.

How does Riyadh Air differ from Saudia?
While Saudia focuses on religious traffic, Riyadh Air targets premium leisure and business travelers with modern fleet and digital-first services.

What destinations are planned first?
Initial routes include London Heathrow, Kuala Lumpur, and Dubai, with Asian capitals prioritized over European hubs.

Sources:
AeroTime,
Asian Aviation,
Runway Girl Network,
Zawya