T-Minus 2 Days: Riyadh Air To Launch 1st Official Route Early, Plans 22 More In 9 Months
Riyadh Air will launch its first official public route from Riyadh to London Heathrow on June 10, three weeks ahead of schedule, using its newly arrived Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners. The airline plans to expand to 22 destinations within nine months, with five additional routes launching in late July, including Jeddah, Dubai, Cairo, Madrid, and Manchester.
Saudi Arabia’s new airline, Riyadh Air, is set to begin fully scheduled public flights on June 10, three weeks earlier than previously planned. The airline’s first route will connect King Khalid International Airport (RUH) in Riyadh to London Heathrow Airport (LHR), marking the transition from trial operations to regular service. The launch follows the arrival of Riyadh Air’s first custom-fitted Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, which were officially welcomed in a ceremony in Riyadh. The airline had previously operated flights between Riyadh and Heathrow since October 2025 under a ‘Pathway to Perfect’ program, but those were limited to invited passengers and staff. Now, with its own aircraft, Riyadh Air is opening the route to the public, with daily flights departing Riyadh at 02:35 AM and returning from London at 09:35 AM. CEO Tony Douglas emphasized the airline’s commitment to delivering a premium experience, blending comfort, technology, and Saudi hospitality. Following the London launch, Riyadh Air will introduce five more routes within weeks, including Jeddah, Dubai, Cairo, Madrid, and Manchester. By late July, the airline will operate a six-route network. The expansion aligns with Saudi Arabia’s goal of positioning Riyadh as a global aviation hub. Riyadh Air plans to connect Riyadh with 22 destinations over the next nine months, accelerating its growth beyond the initial phase. The airline’s first Boeing 787-9 aircraft arrived in Saudi Arabia earlier this year, marking a key milestone in its operational readiness. The fleet expansion and route launches signal Riyadh Air’s readiness to compete in the premium airline market. With tickets now available for sale, the airline aims to attract passengers with its signature service and modern fleet.
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