Saudia Expands and Modernises Fleet for Vision 2030 Goals

: Dec 20, 2024 - : 9:20 pm

Saudia, the national airline of Saudi Arabia, has unveiled plans to expand and modernise its fleet as part of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 initiative. The airline intends to enhance its operations and passenger experience with the introduction of new aircraft...

To read the full article, please log in or enter your email below:

The airline has confirmed a significant order of 49 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, including both the 787-9 and 787-10 models. These modern aircraft are designed to offer improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, achieving a 25% reduction in fuel consumption compared to earlier models. This acquisition is in line with the Kingdom’s National Transport and Logistics Strategy and aims to strengthen Saudia’s long-haul capacity to meet growing travel demand. Additionally, the airline has extended its partnership with Airbus, ordering 54 A321neo aircraft. These new planes offer enhanced fuel efficiency, spacious cabins, and features that prioritise passenger comfort, further aligning with Saudia's sustainability goals.

As part of its modernisation efforts, Saudia is working with Panasonic Avionics to upgrade the in-flight entertainment system on 30 of its wide-body aircraft. The new Astrova system will feature 4K OLED screens, Bluetooth audio, and USB-C power ports, ensuring a more seamless and enjoyable experience for passengers. Furthermore, Saudia has partnered with Collins Aerospace to redesign the seats on its upcoming Boeing 787 fleet, which is due for delivery from early 2026. The airline will also retrofit its Airbus A330 and Boeing 777 fleets, with completion of these upgrades expected by late 2027. These improvements will include the installation of private business class suites on the wide-body aircraft, offering passengers a more luxurious and comfortable journey.

To enhance connectivity, Saudia will provide high-speed in-flight internet, allowing passengers to stream content, make video calls, and browse the web with ease. The airline is also introducing an AI-powered “Travel Companion” to offer personalised assistance, including tailored booking suggestions, dining options, and curated travel guides, ensuring a smoother and more engaging travel experience. After the flight, the service will continue to assist with feedback management, frequent flyer accounts, and provide exclusive offers.

In line with Vision 2030, Saudia is committed to supporting local job creation and economic growth. Through its subsidiary, Saudia Technic, the airline will enhance its maintenance capabilities to support the expanded fleet, ensuring that it can integrate advanced technologies while upskilling local talent.

Saudia’s fleet expansion and modernisation efforts are key to achieving the objectives of Vision 2030, which seeks to position Saudi Arabia as a global aviation hub. The airline plans to increase its annual passenger capacity to 330 million and expand its network to 250 destinations. This growth will drive tourism, improve connections to the Kingdom, and support the significant number of religious pilgrimages. Saudia’s initiatives are central to the Kingdom's broader economic development, helping to strengthen its position in the global aviation market.

Saudia /

MORE NEWS