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Toulouse: Saudia Group has finalized a significant agreement with Airbus to acquire up to 20 new A330neo wide-body aircraft, a move poised to enhance air connectivity and economic ties with Pakistan. The agreement includes 10 firm orders for flyadeal, Saudia’s low-cost carrier, and aims to modernize the fleet and broaden its operational scope.
The A330neo model, known for its efficiency and long-range capabilities, is expected to align with Saudia Group’s strategy of expanding its reach and introducing new destinations. Deliveries of these aircraft are set to commence in 2027, catering to the rising demand for air travel between Saudi Arabia and its neighboring countries, including Pakistan.
Pakistan is likely to gain from increased flight connectivity and potential collaborations in the aviation and tourism sectors as a result of this deal. The expansion aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which seeks to connect 250 destinations and draw millions of tourists. This vision is expected to boost tourist traffic between the two nations.
The signing ceremony took place at the Airbus factory in Toulouse, France, with key figures such as H.E. Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, and Christian Scherer, CEO of the Commercial Aircraft business, in attendance. The agreement was signed by Saleh Eid, Vice President of Fleet Management at Saudia Group, and Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Executive Vice President of Sales of Commercial Aircraft at Airbus.
H.E. Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar remarked, “Today’s deal marks a pivotal milestone in our ambitious strategy to modernize and expand our fleet. It builds on last year’s historic agreement with Airbus for 105 aircraft. This step aligns with our national strategies under Saudi Vision 2030, which aim to connect 250 destinations and facilitate the travel of over 330 million travelers and 150 million tourists by 2030.”
Currently operating 194 aircraft across various sectors, including commercial, cargo, and logistics services, Saudia Group is set to expand its operations with 191 new aircraft deliveries. This expansion supports Saudi Arabia’s broader economic vision and is anticipated to create new opportunities for enhanced air connectivity with Pakistan.