Saudia to operate to and from Red Sea International Airport

Following the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with Red Sea Global (RSG) and daa International, the Red Sea International Airport (RSI) is set to open its doors this year alongside the inauguration of the first three resorts in The Red Sea destination. Initially, RSI will operate domestic flights to and from Riyadh, followed by flights to Jeddah, and later expand its services to accommodate international flights starting in 2024.

John Pagano, Group CEO of Red Sea Global, reflected on the visionary plans set forth by His Royal Highness, Prince Mohammed bin Salman, for Saudi Arabia in 2016. These plans aimed to transform the Kingdom into a thriving global hub where people from around the world could experience the best of Saudi culture, hospitality, and nature. Pagano emphasized that when the inaugural commercial flight lands at Red Sea International, it will signify a momentous achievement in realizing this vision, making it a point of pride for both Red Sea Global and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Under the agreement, Saudia, the Kingdom’s flag carrier, will initiate regular scheduled services to and from RSI. Furthermore, the partnership establishes a framework for collaborative research between the three organizations on the utilization of Lower Carbon Aviation Fuel (LCAF) and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) at Red Sea International Airport. Additionally, the potential use of electric vertical take-off and landing jets (eVTOL) to reduce emissions associated with air travel to The Red Sea destination will be explored.

Capt. Ibrahim Koshy, CEO of Saudia, emphasized the significance of this agreement as a new chapter in Saudi Arabia’s aviation history, aligning with the objectives of Vision 2030. He expressed pride in Saudia’s role as an enabler in achieving the targets of major projects, and its position as the first airline to operate to and from Red Sea International Airport. Koshy also underscored that this agreement would strengthen Saudia’s presence within the Kingdom and facilitate collaboration with RSG and daa International to boost tourism and enhance Saudi Arabia’s global standing in aviation.

The agreement builds upon daa International’s existing relationship with RSG, where it operates the international airport. daa International will continue to manage the airport and collaborate with Saudia on various activities, including gate and counter allocation, to ensure that RSI delivers a unique and exceptional experience to all travelers passing through it.

Nicholas Cole, CEO of daa International, highlighted that Red Sea International serves as a new gateway for travelers to explore the wonders of Saudi Arabia. Leveraging their expertise in airport management, daa International will work closely with RSG and Saudia to ensure that RSI provides an unparalleled experience for all visitors.