Saudi Arabia-based startup Riyadh Air has unveiled the first of two striking liveries on its first Boeing 787 Dreamliner. The aircraft, which is not yet in passenger service, is the start of the airline's mission to leverage Saudi Arabia's strategic location as a hub connecting Asia, Africa, and Europe.
Riyadh Air reveals its first Boeing 787
Today Riyadh Air unveiled its first of two livery designs on a Boeing 787-9. The aircraft, which is registered as N8572C, is the first aircraft in the airline's fleet and was showcased for the first time. Riyadh Air has 39 firm orders and 33 options for the aircraft type.
The livery
Riyadh Air states that the livery is "a perfect blend of cutting-edge technology and timeless elegance." The primary color schemes used are lavender and blue. Lavender, which is native to Saudi Arabia, symbolizes hospitality, and the Government uses lavender for ceremonial and official purposes.
There are multiple bold elements on the aircraft. This includes "RIYADH AIR" written in large bold white letters across the fuselage and the carrier's logo on the tail and engines. The logo is an airplane window, which symbolizes the airline's goal to be "Saudi Arabia's window to the world." The stylized letter "R" is designed to evoke birds' wings in flight.
Airlines consider their livery very carefully, as this is the element of their brand customers have the most memorable interactions with. A visual impression to customers, Riyadh Air's aircraft stands out. While the majority of airlines have a white fuselage with bold letters and art on the tail, Riyadh's unique and modern livery truly stands out.
Increasing the carrier's fleet
Riyadh Air expects to continue growing its all Boeing fleet with 787-9 aircraft. In March, the carrier announced an order of 39 Dreamliners with options for an additional 33 and is currently in the process of finalizing an order for narrowbody aircraft.
Later this month, the carrier will showcase its new livery on the Boeing 787 at the Paris Air Show.
First flight in early 2025
In March, the Saudi Government unveiled the new airline as part of the country's Vision 2030 investment plan. Riyadh Air will pave the way for the future of aviation in the country due to the country's strategic location as a hub connecting Africa, Asia, and Europe. This is expected to promote growth and economic diversification in the nation as it moves away from oil production.
The carrier plans to connect Saudi Arabia with 100 destinations by 2030. Owned by the Public Investment Fund of the nation, Riyadh Air plans to begin commercial operations in early 2025.
The second flag carrier, after Saudia, is expected to add $20 billion to the nation's non-oil GDP growth and create over 200,000 jobs. According to the airline's website, it has received over 300,000 applicants from 182 countries.
Riyadh Air has already taken its first step to commence operations by acquiring the Airline Designator Code RX from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) during the IATA Annual General Meeting. This marked the carrier's first official engagement with the global airline industry.
