The news Saudi Arabia's national airline, Riyadh Airwhich aims to become the benchmark for aviation in the kingdom, must now review your launch plans. This year, the carrier was originally due to receive the first eight Boeing B787-9 aircraft a firm order for 39 aircraft. This would be followed by an option for a further 33 aircraft of the same type.
According to information from the Bloomberg press agency, however, it seems that Boeing will now only be able to deliver four aircraft.... and behind schedule. Problems with the manufacture of parts and some engine failures are affecting production. And this is having an impact on deliveries to many airlines. Some examples, Cathay Pacific and All Nippon Airways will not receive Boeing 777-9s until 2026They were due to be delivered in 2025. Last October, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) predicted that 2025 would be a difficult year. for companies waiting for new aircraft.
For Riyadh AirThis is a real setback. A priori, the carrier will not receive its first four aircraft until the third quarter of 2025. Instead of the first quarter of this year. The carrier is refusing to lease aircraft in the meantime. The company wants to offer its future in-flight product straight away.
But from now on, the goal of 100 Riyadh Air destinations by 2030 could be compromised by these uncertainties over delivery times. Indeed, the situation is likely to persist. Boeing delivered 348 aircraft last year, a third less than the previous year. And observers are noting that the US aircraft manufacturer's lead times are getting longer all the time.
