Riyadh Air Unveils First Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner Ahead of Launch

RIYADH- Saudi Arabian Flag Carrier, Riyadh Air (RX), has revealed images of its first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner at Boeing’s Charleston facility as the aircraft nears final completion. The milestone marks a major step toward the carrier’s planned launch in Q4 2025.

Shared on the airline’s X account, the pictures showcase the aircraft in an advanced state of assembly, already carrying Riyadh Air’s distinct livery. This is the first Dreamliner built specifically for the Saudi national airline.

Photo: Riyadh Air

Riyadh Air’s First Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner

The new Boeing 787-9 represents a cornerstone of Riyadh Air’s fleet strategy. In August 2025, the airline held firm orders for 39 787-9 Dreamliners with options for 33 additional aircraft.

The deliveries will provide the backbone of its international operations from King Khalid International Airport (RUH).

While this is the first airframe purpose built for Riyadh Air, the airline had previously used a Boeing supplied 787-9 for promotional purposes in 2023, including a debut at the Paris Air Show.

In January 2025, Riyadh Air also received a second hand Dreamliner from Oman Air (WY), which has since been used for crew training, demonstration flights, and industry events.

The introduction of the first fully owned aircraft marks a decisive step forward in the airline’s fleet expansion strategy.

Riyadh Air expects to launch commercial operations in Q4 2025, positioning itself as a central player in Saudi Arabia’s aviation transformation strategy, aligned with the nation’s Vision 2030 economic diversification plan.

Photo: Riyadh Air

Fleet Expansion Strategy

Riyadh Air has secured firm orders for 39 Boeing 787-9 aircraft, with options for an additional 33 units. This large-scale procurement reflects Saudi Arabia’s goal of establishing Riyadh as a major global aviation hub.

With one of the youngest fleets in the industry, the airline intends to deliver enhanced passenger comfort, fuel efficiency, and long-haul connectivity.

The Boeing 787-9 is a key choice due to its advanced aerodynamics, composite structure, and range capability, enabling nonstop services between Riyadh and strategic destinations across Europe, Asia, North America, and Africa.

The mix of firm orders and options gives Riyadh Air flexibility to expand rapidly while adapting to evolving market demand.

Photo: Riyadh Air

Passenger Experience and Cabin Layout

Riyadh Air’s 787-9s will be configured with 290 seats across four cabin classes. The layout includes:

• Business Elite: Four exclusive front-row seats with a convertible double bed.
• Business Class: 24 fully flat-bed seats in a 1-2-1 configuration.
• Premium Economy: 39 seats in a 2-3-2 layout.
• Economy Class: 223 seats in a 3-3-3 arrangement.

This configuration reflects Riyadh Air’s dual mission: to compete with established Gulf carriers on luxury standards while also serving a wide range of passenger budgets.

The inclusion of an ultra-premium Business Elite product sets the airline apart, appealing to business executives and high-net-worth travelers.

Photo: Riyadh Air

Future Outlook

Riyadh Air has actively showcased its brand on the global stage. Both the 2023 and 2025 Paris Air Shows featured its Dreamliners, building anticipation for the official start of services.

With the first custom-built aircraft now nearing completion, the airline is preparing for its much-anticipated launch in late 2025.

The carrier aims to position Riyadh as a global aviation hub, complementing Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy by enhancing connectivity, tourism, and international business links.

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