Delta and Riyadh Air Forge Partnership for US-Saudi Flights
Delta Air Lines and Riyadh Air have signed a partnership agreement aimed at expanding connectivity and premium travel options between North America, Saudi Arabia, and other regions. This collaboration includes plans for an anti-trust joint venture, allowing the airlines to coordinate schedules and growth. Riyadh Air, which is set to launch commercial operations next year, has positioned itself as a premium carrier and brand ambassador for Saudi Arabia, with an initial order of 39 Boeing 787-9 aircraft and options for 33 more. The airline aims to operate a fleet of 200 aircraft and reach 10 international destinations by 2025.
The agreement will make Delta the exclusive North American partner for Riyadh Air, offering access to hundreds of destinations in the U.S. The partnership will feature interline and codeshare agreements, subject to regulatory approvals, and could evolve into a joint venture similar to Delta’s existing agreements with other international carriers. The collaboration also includes customer experience enhancements, digital transformation, and broader aviation services such as maintenance and ground handling.
Riyadh Air, owned by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund, will be the second national airline alongside Saudia. The partnership is part of Saudi Arabia's broader strategy to diversify its economy and boost tourism, with significant investments in the sector. The collaboration aligns with Delta’s mission to expand global connectivity and provide new travel options for its customers.
