By: Economy Middle East

Saudi Arabia’s new airline Riyadh Air has won approval to operate flights to and from the United States, according to an order issued by the U.S. Transportation Department. The authorization marks a key regulatory milestone for the carrier as it expands its international operations. According to Reuters, The USDOT stated that the decision to grant operating authority is consistent with the public interest, formally enabling the airline to enter the U.S. market.

Global expansion plans

Riyadh Air launched its first flight to London last week using its new Boeing fleet, marking the beginning of its international service rollout. Established in 2023, the airline is Saudi Arabia’s second national carrier after Saudia and is owned by the country’s Public Investment Fund. The airline informed the USDOT during its application process last month that it intends to serve more than 100 international destinations by 2030. It also noted that it has existing or planned partnerships with at least ten international carriers, including Delta Air Lines, reflecting its strategy to build a broad global network from the outset.

Fleet and growth

Delta Air Lines has said it plans to begin nonstop service from Atlanta to Riyadh in October. Riyadh Air Chief Executive Officer Tony Douglas stated last week that aircraft deliveries are expected to expand the fleet to eight by the end of July. The airline also plans to serve 22 cities by March 2027 as part of its phased expansion strategy. With up to 72 Boeing 787s, as many as 60 Airbus A321neos, and 50 Airbus A350 aircraft on order, Douglas has described the venture as “the biggest global aviation startup in modern history,” highlighting the scale of its long-term ambitions.

Economic diversification

Riyadh Air forms part of Saudi Arabia’s broader economic diversification strategy aimed at expanding into sectors such as tourism, logistics, and technology. The airline has already announced routes to Cairo, Dubai, Jeddah, Madrid, and Manchester, with additional destinations in India expected to follow, according to Douglas. Through this expansion, the carrier is positioned as a key component of the country’s efforts to reduce reliance on hydrocarbons and develop a more diversified and globally integrated economy. The airline’s growth strategy reflects both national economic priorities and a rapid build-out of international aviation capacity.