February 3 2025  |  Airline & Terminal News

Riyadh Air takes delivery of first 787-9 Dreamliner

By PAX International Magazine Staff



Riyadh Air 787-9 Dreamliner

The first Riyadh Air 787-9 Dreamliner, adorned in the airline’s pearl livery, landed at King Khalid International Airport (RUH) in Riyadh last month. This leased aircraft marks a significant milestone for Riyadh Air and will serve as a technical spare and training asset.

This leased aircraft is in addition to Riyadh Air’s original order of 72 787-9 Dreamliners. It will be utilized over the coming months for pilot and crew training, as well as to support the airline’s Air Operator Certificate (AOC) process with the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA). Once operational readiness is achieved, the aircraft will serve as a technical spare to ensure smooth operations when Riyadh Air begins service later this year.

While this aircraft does not feature the soon-to-be unveiled cabin interiors it has been equipped with a high-specification interior to meet the expectations of passengers, should it be needed. Taking delivery of this aircraft allows Riyadh Air to start services as soon as possible, once the first two B787-9 aircraft are delivered later this year.

“The decision to lease this plane reflects Riyadh Air’s innovative approach to accelerating its readiness to serve Riyadh and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. By introducing this aircraft, Riyadh Air is taking an important step toward its goal of delivering a world-class travel experience starting in 2025,” the press release said.

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