Riyadh Air’s First Boeing 787-9 Flight Takes Off for Istanbul!

2 weeks ago Editor

Riyadh Air marked a milestone as its first Boeing 787-9, “Jamila,” took off on a test flight from Riyadh to Istanbul on January 23, 2025. The leased aircraft supports the airline’s operational readiness while Riyadh Air prepares for its commercial launch.

Riyadh Air took a major step toward its commercial debut with the first operational flight of its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. On January 23, 2025, the aircraft, named “Jamila” (HZ-RXX), departed Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport for Istanbul as Flight RXI5014.

This test flight is part of Riyadh Air’s preparations for securing its Air Operator Certificate (AOC). The aircraft, previously operated by Oman Air, was acquired on a lease basis to support early operations and training. It does not feature the airline’s latest interior, as it is separate from Riyadh Air’s 2023 order for 72 brand-new Boeing 787-9s.

Having arrived in Riyadh on January 13, 2025, painted in the airline’s signature pearlescent white “pearl livery,” the aircraft was warmly welcomed by Riyadh Air’s Board of Directors. A formal inspection followed, led by His Excellency Yasir Al-Rumayyan, Governor of the Saudi Public Investment Fund and Chairman of Riyadh Air.

Istanbul was a strategic choice for the maiden flight, aligning with Riyadh Air’s partnership with Turkish Airlines. This collaboration, sealed with a Memorandum of Understanding, aims to enhance global connectivity through interline and codeshare services. Passengers will benefit from seamless travel between Riyadh and Istanbul, along with expanded access to over 130 destinations worldwide.

With ongoing fleet expansion plans, Riyadh Air has already placed 132 aircraft orders, including 60 Airbus A321neo jets. Negotiations are underway to add more widebody aircraft, including either the Boeing 777X or Airbus A350-1000, as the airline aims to grow its fleet to over 200 aircraft.

Originally set to launch operations in the latter half of 2025, Riyadh Air’s commercial debut may now be delayed until late 2025. This potential setback raises concerns over Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 aviation and tourism goals, particularly the target of accommodating 300 million annual visitors.