Tony Douglas

Tony Douglas is CEO of Riyadh Air, appointed in 2023 to establish and develop Saudi Arabia’s second national carrier. This strategic appointment reflects Saudi Arabia’s vision to develop a globally competitive airline and expand air connectivity as part of Vision 2030 economic objectives. He previously served as CEO of Etihad Airways, where he led strategic initiatives, operational improvements, and network expansion for the Abu Dhabi-based carrier. His tenure at Etihad provided comprehensive experience in airline operations, fleet management, international network development, and hub positioning strategy within competitive regional and global markets.

Douglas has held senior roles across aviation and defence industries, bringing multi-sector expertise in high-stakes operational management, technology integration, and strategic organisational transformation. Riyadh Air is being developed as a digitally focused airline based in Riyadh, with strategic positioning centred on international connectivity and hub development between Asia, Africa, and Europe. The airline leverages Riyadh’s geographic location as a central strategic advantage for long-haul international connectivity and passenger transfer operations. The airline has placed major aircraft orders, including Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner and Airbus A321neo aircraft, representing a modern, fuel-efficient fleet designed for long-haul and medium-haul operations. .

Riyadh Air is currently progressing through a phased operational rollout, with staged network expansion planned across key global markets in Europe, Asia, Africa, and beyond. Future development priorities include infrastructure partnerships, alliances, and technological integration to support competitive operations in global
aviation markets.

Douglas has emphasised Riyadh’s geographic position as a central strategic element of the airline’s long-term competitive advantage and growth strategy in international aviation.