- BIST10011,798+3.22%
- USD49.55+0.21%
- EUR55.57-0.09%
- GOLD4,142.20-0.01%
- INTEREST37.00%-1.00
- BITCOIN82,924+1.32%
- October 21, 202613°
- BIST10011,798+3.22%
- USD49.55+0.21%
- EUR55.57-0.09%
- GOLD4,142.20-0.01%
- INTEREST37.00%-1.00
- BITCOIN82,924+1.32%
- October 21, 202613°
Riyadh Air Launches First Domestic Flight Between Riyadh and Jeddah
Riyadh Air has taken a new step in expanding its network within Saudi Arabia by launching its first domestic flight from Riyadh to Jeddah. The airline plans to gradually increase the number of flights in June and July.
Saudi Arabia's new national carrier, Riyadh Air, has launched its first domestic flight between Riyadh and Jeddah. The flight, operated on Sunday, marked a significant milestone in the airline's plans to expand its domestic network.
The inaugural flight departed from King Khalid International Airport and arrived at King Abdulaziz International Airport. Onboard were Hajj and Umrah Minister Tawfiq al-Rabiah, General Authority of Civil Aviation Chairman Abdulaziz al-Duaylec, Riyadh Air board member Raid Ismail, and numerous figures from the aviation sector.
Flights to be gradually increased
Riyadh Air initially started the route with two daily flights. The airline plans to increase the frequency to three flights per day starting June 18, and to four flights per day from July 2.
The new route is part of a strategy to strengthen the connection network originating from Riyadh. Through this, the company aims to enhance transportation between major hubs within Saudi Arabia.
Official welcome in Jeddah
Upon landing in Jeddah, the flight was welcomed by Raed al-Mudayhim, Chairman of the Jeddah Airports Company Board, the company’s CEO Mazin Jawhar, and representatives from public and security agencies at the airport.
The Jeddah Airport management stated that the new route reflects integration among components of the aviation ecosystem and will diversify passenger services. It was also announced that the airport served over 14.8 million passengers and approximately 84,000 flights in the first quarter of 2026.
Launch on a high-demand route
The route was launched during a period of strong demand. According to aviation analytics firm OAG, the Riyadh-Jeddah route ranked as the world’s fifth busiest domestic air route in 2025, with a seat capacity of 9.8 million.
Riyadh Air CEO Tony Douglas described the Jeddah flights as a key milestone in the company’s journey to build an extensive network connecting Saudi Arabia to the world. Douglas noted that the route serves a broad range of business and tourism travelers and supports the goals of developing the aviation sector under Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
With the new flights, the company aims to contribute to tourism, business travel, and Hajj and Umrah traffic, while also strengthening Riyadh’s position in international air connectivity. Riyadh Air’s long-term goal is to reach more than 100 destinations worldwide.
Stay Updated with Hilal Times
Subscribe to be informed about special news, developments and announcements. We will keep you informed.
By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy
