Riyadh Air Gets US Approval to Launch Flights with Boeing 787-9 Fleet

Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia's emerging state-backed airline, has secured a pivotal regulatory clearance from the US Department of Transportation (DOT) to operate flights between Saudi Arabia and the United States. The DOT's June 16 order grants Riyadh Air a two-year exemption authority and tentatively approves its application for a foreign air carrier permit, enabling the airline to serve any US city from any point in Saudi Arabia.

The exemption authority, set to last two years or until the formal foreign carrier permit takes effect, signals US regulators’ confidence in Riyadh Air's operational and financial capability to meet requirements for international service. The DOT's statement emphasizes that granting this authority aligns with the public interest and confirms Riyadh Air's credentials based on a thorough review process.

Riyadh Air formally submitted its request to the US Department of Transportation on May 5, seeking rights to operate a network of US routes. The approval represents a key milestone as the airline prepares to expand its global footprint beyond its initial service offerings. It is expected to open further transatlantic connectivity options for Saudi Arabia, particularly its capital Riyadh, facilitating both passenger and potentially cargo operations.

In recent months, Riyadh Air has commenced operations with Boeing 787-9 aircraft, having taken delivery of its first two of a 72-aircraft order from Boeing. The carrier has initiated flights to several international destinations including London, Jeddah, and Cairo. Notably, it launched full schedule service to London Heathrow on June 10 and announced plans for a Manchester route beginning July 23, underscoring its rapid operational ramp-up.

The DOT permitting complements Riyadh Air’s aggressive growth plans aiming to reach more than 100 destinations by 2030. The authorization to fly to the US, one of the world's most important aviation markets, expands Riyadh Air’s access to global travel hubs and fulfills part of Saudi Arabia's wider Vision 2030 strategy to develop its aviation sector and diversify economic activity.

Riyadh Air’s entry into the US market will mark it as a significant new player among Middle Eastern carriers, joining established airlines with strong transatlantic presence. The regulatory nod is especially significant as Riyadh Air is a nascent carrier, propelling forward with a large 787-9 fleet focused on long-haul routes. The US DOT’s thorough vetting and provisional permit reflect confidence in Riyadh Air’s future operational standards and financial robustness.

The timing of this authorization closely follows Riyadh Air launching early operations on European routes, signaling a deliberate phased expansion strategy. Operating with Boeing 787-9s, the airline leverages the aircraft’s long-range, fuel-efficient capabilities to connect Saudi Arabia with key global cities. This regulatory green light is a critical step toward establishing Riyadh Air as a major international airline for Saudi Arabia.

As Saudi Arabia aims to position Riyadh as a global aviation hub, Riyadh Air’s new US access exemplifies progress in implementing this vision. Securing rights to fly into the US market opens numerous possibilities for commercial growth, increased bilateral travel and cargo volumes, and strengthened ties with one of the world's largest economies. The two-year exemption sets Riyadh Air on a clear path to establishing a permanent operating permit for sustained US operations.

The US Department of Transportation's order leaves Riyadh Air poised to finalize its permit authority following standard procedural show-cause periods. Riyadh Air’s swift operational growth and fleet expansion mean it is well placed to launch services to US cities and integrate itself into international travel networks within the next year.