Airbus has secured a significant victory with a major order from Riyadh Air for its A350-1000 aircraft, marking a boost for the manufacturer in the competitive wide-body jet market.
Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s ambitious new carrier, placed an order for 25 A350-1000 jets with options for 25 more, a deal valued at over $4 billion at list prices. This move supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative to expand tourism and diversify the national economy, as the airline prepares to launch operations and position Riyadh as a global travel hub.
The A350-1000, capable of seating up to 410 passengers and flying over 9,000 miles, will be essential for Riyadh Air’s planned hub-and-spoke model. The airline’s CEO indicated these long-haul jets will likely feature first-class cabins, differentiating them from its Boeing 787s.
This order is a strategic win for Airbus, especially since Riyadh Air could have chosen Boeing’s 777X, a rival aircraft facing certification delays and development setbacks. While Boeing’s 777X remains grounded due to ongoing flight tests and was absent from recent air shows, Airbus’s deal signals renewed confidence in the A350 line.
The A350-1000 has previously faced criticism regarding engine performance in harsh Middle Eastern climates, leading to maintenance concerns and disputes with major carriers. Notably, Emirates opted for the smaller A350-900, and Qatar Airways temporarily grounded its A350s over safety issues, though these disputes have since been resolved.
With Rolls-Royce investing in engine improvements and Airbus addressing past concerns, the substantial Riyadh Air order suggests the A350-1000 is regaining industry trust and expanding its presence in the region.