RIYADH: Riyadh Air has completed manufacturing of its first Airbus A321neo narrow-body aircraft, marking another milestone in the Saudi carrier’s fleet expansion as it builds a mixed fleet of Airbus and Boeing aircraft to support its international growth ambitions.
The aircraft, registered as HZ-RXFA, emerged from Airbus’ paint facility in Hamburg, Germany, on Friday in the airline’s signature pearl livery, according to an announcement carried by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA).
Its design draws inspiration from Saudi heritage, combining flowing lines modeled on traditional Bedouin tents with elements reflecting Arabic calligraphy. The exterior features shades of indigo and lavender, feather-inspired patterns on the rear fuselage and a dark frame around the cockpit windows.
The Riyadh Air name appears in both Arabic and English, reflecting the airline’s identity and its emphasis on Saudi culture and heritage.
The aircraft is scheduled to undergo a series of test flights in the coming days before delivery and its eventual arrival at its operational base in Riyadh. The airline said details of its cabin design, onboard experience and destinations for its narrow-body fleet would be announced in the coming weeks.
The A321neo will complement Riyadh Air’s Boeing 787 Dreamliner fleet, which forms the backbone of its wide-body expansion strategy.
In July, Riyadh Air and Boeing announced an agreement covering 28 additional 787 Dreamliners as part…
