Riyadh Air partners with Delta Air Lines to expand global network

Image credit: Riyadh Air/ X

Riyadh Air has partnered with Delta Air Lines to introduce a broad range of services for customers and expand its potential global network as Saudi Arabia’s startup carrier readies to launch commercial operations next year.

The carriers said in a joint statement that the agreement serves as the foundation for a strategic partnership that will enable both airlines to strengthen connectivity, expand their networks and drive future growth.

“Riyadh Air and Delta Air Lines share common goals and pursue the highest standards in many areas, including guest experience, loyalty, and sustainability, built upon great networks and strong connectivity,” said Tony Douglas, the CEO of Riyadh Air.

The deal includes interline and codeshare connectivity, enhanced loyalty programs, improved customer experience, digital transformation initiatives, and broader aviation services such as maintenance, repair, overhaul services, ground handling, and training.

Atlanta-based Delta will serve as Riyadh Air’s exclusive partner in North America, offering its customers access to hundreds of Us destinations.

The partnership with Riyadh Air is expected to open new destinations for Delta Air in Saudi Arabia, including future nonstop service to Riyadh. Currently, no US carrier flies to the kingdom.

Delta Air and Riyadh Air also intend to explore a joint venture that would allow them to coordinate routes and flight times and further expand the partnership in the future. The duo said the deal will provide leisure travellers with a new region of the world to explore while creating new opportunities for business travellers to Riyadh, a G20 capital city.

Riyadh Air’s global ambitions

Riyadh Air’s latest partnership comes as large-scale, ongoing investments in Saudi Arabia are transforming the kingdom into a popular and attractive destination for both leisure and business travellers.

The tourism sector is crucial to Saudi Arabia’s long-term economic growth plan. The country has invested $800bn in luxury resorts on the Red Sea, opened the Diriyah and al-Ula historical sites to visitors, and hosted the 2030 Riyadh Expo.

Earlier in June, Public Investment Fund-owned Riyadh Air partnered with Singapore Airlines and Air China as the startup carrier continues to build its network with established airlines around the world.

The airline is building its network through a series of bilateral partnerships and code shares rather than relying purely on its planes or joining a formal airline alliance. It has already built an accord with Turkish Airlines and is working on agreements with an Indian carrier for long-haul flights.

Riyadh Air has orders for 39 787s with options for an additional 33 jets. It plans to order narrowbody and additional widebody jets as it seeks to scale up its short-haul services.

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