Saudi Arabia’s new flag carrier, Riyadh Air, is set to launch in mid-2025, featuring a fleet of Boeing 787 Dreamliners that will include private business class suites and premium economy recliners, according to CEO Tony Douglas.
Unlike competitors Emirates and Qatar Airways, Riyadh Air will not offer first-class suites. Douglas explains this choice is based on the commercial challenges of maintaining a first class and the airline’s aim for financial and environmental sustainability. He wants to elevate business class to a higher standard rather than allocating limited space towards a non-sustainable first class.
Douglas likens the cabin experience to luxury vehicles, stating that while a Maybach is considered premium, it shares the same frame as an S-Class Mercedes. This analogy illustrates the goal of providing a refined and superior business class experience while optimizing space usage.
Riyadh Air’s seating, including business, premium economy, and economy, has been designed in collaboration with a high-caliber partner and will be revealed later this year. Douglas assures that the business class will feature all modern amenities such as sliding privacy doors, large HD screens, wireless charging, and fast WiFi, similar to what is expected in high-end service.
Regarding premium economy, Douglas aims for it to be a significant upgrade, positioning it closer to business class standards without providing lie-flat seats. Additionally, he mentioned that Riyadh Air will establish a strategic partnership with a major North American airline while avoiding membership in any global airline alliances like Oneworld or SkyTeam.
Photo credit: Alexi Van Damme CEO and Founder AX Media Thailand
