Saudi Gazette report

DUBAI— Riyadh Air, the new airline owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF). has signed a partnership with Air China, China’s national flag carrier, at the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Annual General Meeting (AGM) in Dubai on Monday.

The partnership came in light of the success achieved by Air China’s flights between Beijing and Riyadh, to reflect the depth and development of existing relations between Saudi Arabia and China.

The agreement will open great opportunities for communication and connectivity between both Beijing and Riyadh, as they are two pivotal capitals within the G20. The two carriers will work on many commercial aspects, including intra-air traffic, code sharing, and others.

Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air, said: "This agreement with Air China, which is distinguished by its wide network in the main Chinese markets, represents an important step toward consolidating a long-term partnership that will ensure the facilitation of smooth and comfortable travel for customers between China and the Middle East region and beyond."

Ma Zhongxian, Chairman of Air China, said: "This step is the beginning of a mutually beneficial partnership between two national carriers linking two prominent capitals. With a focus on expanding the route network and enhancing cooperation horizons, we are keen to work and coordinate jointly, achieve success, and reach the desired results in the long term."

Riyadh Air aspires to be the most advanced digital airline in the world by connecting the capital, Riyadh, to more than 100 global destinations by 2030.

It also adopts the best sustainable practices, elevating travel experiences and setting entirely new standards in hospitality, reliability and comfort. By playing a fundamental role in achieving the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, Riyadh Air works to diversify the Saudi economy, create more jobs, and contribute to the Kingdom’s non-oil gross domestic product.