Riyadh Air’s First Test Flight Lands in Istanbul

1 month ago Editor

Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s flagship airline, completed its first test flight from Riyadh to Istanbul as it gears up for operations in 2025. The airline has big plans, including serving 100 destinations by 2030 and fostering partnerships with global carriers.

Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s new flag carrier, successfully completed its inaugural test flight between King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh (RUH) and Istanbul Airport (IST) on January 23, 2025. The flight marks a significant milestone for the airline, which is set to begin operations in the latter half of this year, pending the delivery of its initial fleet.

The test flight, designated RXI5014, departed Riyadh at 11:35 AM UTC and safely touched down in Istanbul after approximately four hours at 3:42 PM UTC. The Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, registered as HZ-RXX, was used for the flight. This 7.9-year-old aircraft, previously operated by Oman Air, has been leased to facilitate training and testing activities while Riyadh Air awaits deliveries from Boeing.

The ground handling for the flight in Istanbul was managed by Havaş, a prominent provider of aviation services in Türkiye. Havaş offers comprehensive ground handling services, including passenger and baggage handling, ramp services, cargo operations, and more.

Riyadh Air aims to play a key role in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, planning to connect over 100 destinations by the end of the decade. The airline has already partnered with eight carriers, including Turkish Airlines, and placed an order for 132 aircraft.

The collaboration between Riyadh Air and Turkish Airlines promises to expand connectivity for passengers traveling between Saudi Arabia and Türkiye. Signed in late 2024, the partnership includes interline and codeshare agreements, reciprocal loyalty program benefits, and shared exploration of digital and cargo innovations.

This strategic cooperation is expected to significantly enhance global travel options, connecting Riyadh and Istanbul as major aviation hubs. Riyadh Air CEO Tony Douglas highlighted the value of this alliance in providing passengers with seamless access to more destinations, including Europe, the Americas, and Asia.

With its operations poised to launch later this year, Riyadh Air is rapidly building momentum to establish itself as a major player in the global aviation market.