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Saudia Group has announced a significant new agreement with Airbus for the acquisition of 10 A330-900 aircraft for its low-cost subsidiary, flyadeal. The deal marks flyadeal’s first-ever widebody aircraft order and is a major step toward expanding its network into long-haul markets while enhancing passenger experience and operational efficiency.
The announcement was made during an official signing ceremony held at Airbus’ headquarters in Toulouse. Attending the event were His Excellency Engineer Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, Christian Scherer, CEO Commercial Aircraft at Airbus, Saleh Eid, Vice President of Fleet Management and Agreements at Saudia Group, and Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Executive Vice President of Sales (Commercial Aircraft) at Airbus.
“This deal marks a pivotal milestone in our ambitious strategy to modernise and expand our fleet,” said H.E. Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar. “It builds on last year’s historic agreement with Airbus for 105 aircraft and is a cornerstone in our broader strategy under Saudi Vision 2030 — connecting 250 destinations and serving over 330 million travellers and 150 million tourists by the end of the decade.”
The addition of the A330-900, powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, will enable flyadeal to serve long-haul routes of up to 7,200 nautical miles (13,300 km), while maintaining fuel efficiency and a low environmental footprint. The aircraft features Airbus’ award-winning Airspace cabin, offering passengers more personal space, enlarged overhead bins, advanced lighting systems, and the latest in in-flight entertainment and connectivity.
“This order marks a significant step in the Kingdom’s aviation journey,” commented Benoît de Saint-Exupéry. “With the A330neo’s range, flexibility, and next-generation comfort, Saudia Group and flyadeal are well-positioned to capture new market opportunities and lead the way in low-cost, long-haul travel.”
The A330neo joins flyadeal’s rapidly growing fleet, which currently consists of 37 A320 Family aircraft, complementing Saudia’s fleet of 93 A320 and A330 aircraft. The A330 Family has received more than 1,800 firm orders globally and is already certified to fly with up to 50% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) — with full SAF capability targeted by 2030.
This latest agreement underscores flyadeal’s commitment to operating one of the youngest and most efficient fleets in the Middle East’s low-cost segment, aligned with the Kingdom’s sustainability and connectivity goals.
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