Riyadh, February 6 - Saudi Arabia's flagship carrier, Saudia, is in early discussions with Boeing and Airbus for what could become its largest aircraft order ever, according to a Bloomberg News report. The state-owned airline is exploring the acquisition of at least 150 narrowbody and widebody jets to support Saudi Arabia's ambitious push to transform into a major global travel and tourism destination. These preliminary talks involve evaluating models from both manufacturers, though no final decisions have been made on specific aircraft types, quantities, or allocation between the two companies. The negotiations reflect the kingdom's broader strategy to expand aviation infrastructure and connectivity as part of Vision 2030 initiatives.
Saudia currently operates a fleet of around 200 aircraft and has pursued significant modernization in recent years. In 2024, the carrier placed an order for 105 Airbus narrowbody jets, while in 2023 it committed to more than 36 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, with options for an additional 10. The potential new deal would surpass these previous purchases in scale, combining narrowbody aircraft suited for short- and medium-haul routes with widebody models for long-haul international operations. Such a mixed fleet approach would enable Saudia to enhance efficiency, replace aging planes, and accommodate growing passenger demand across its expanding network.
The reported discussions arrive amid intense competition between Boeing and Airbus for major airline contracts worldwide. Both manufacturers have faced production challenges and supply chain issues in recent years, making large orders highly significant for their backlogs and future revenue. For Saudia, securing favorable terms from either or both companies could provide substantial cost savings and operational flexibility. The talks remain at an initial stage, and sources indicate that no agreement is guaranteed, as the airline continues to assess its long-term fleet requirements.
This potential historic jet order underscores Saudi Arabia's commitment to investing billions in its aviation sector to boost tourism arrivals and establish the kingdom as a key transit hub. A successful deal of this magnitude would not only strengthen Saudia's position as a leading Middle Eastern carrier but also signal continued confidence in global air travel recovery and growth. Industry observers will watch closely for any developments, as the outcome could influence aircraft market dynamics in the coming years.