According to a report from Bloomberg, Riyadh Air, one of the newest airlines to be announced globally, is close to signing a deal with American aircraft manufacturer Boeing for up to 150 737 MAX aircraft.
A commitment would come months after the company’s official launch announcement, where a firm commitment for the 787 series was agreed. The Dreamliner will be pivotal in the carrier’s long-haul future fleet.
At this stage, the airline remains an all-Boeing customer, and a commitment to the 737 MAX would only add to the relationship with Boeing that currently exists.
While Bloomberg reports that Riyadh Air considered the A321 for this part of the order, the availability of aircraft on that front would steer them away from signing a contract.
Delivery slots are becoming increasingly valuable for operators as they look to secure aircraft in advance with the knowledge years later, slots may be impossible to secure. As Airbus and or Boeing cant increase production at the rate they wish due to supply chain constraints and demand, the need for aircraft only grows. It’s a game of catch-up.
An order for up to 150 aircraft for the 737 MAX would be huge for Riyadh Air and Boeing. However, the same report from Bloomberg indicates that Riyadh Air wouldn’t stop there. The intention is to continue growing their narrowbody aircraft as they examine options from Airbus and Boeing.
Riyadh will launch in 2025 at the earliest based on current delivery and scheduling. It will aim to unlock new opportunities for growth and economic benefits in the region and become a leading force in the global aviation industry.
