Riyadh Air selects 120 CFM LEAP-1A engines for 60 Airbus A321neos

Riyadh Air has confirmed an order for 120 CFM International LEAP-1A engines to power 60 Airbus A321neo family aircraft that were ordered in 2024. 

The order, which also includes spare engines, was signed on November 18, 2025, the second day of the Dubai Airshow, by Adam Boukadida, CFO of Riyadh Air, and Stéphane Cueille, CEO of Safran Aircraft Engines.   

For its new A321neo fleet, Riyadh Air will take advantage of CFM’s fuel-efficient LEAP-1A engines, which will feature the “latest high-pressure turbine durability kit.” This kit is designed to extend the engine’s operational time in hot regions like the Middle East. 

“These engines deliver exceptional fuel efficiency, lower emissions, and enhanced durability, supporting our vision of building a world-class airline,” Riyadh Air announced in a statement. 

With over 4,000 aircraft delivered so far, CFM LEAP engines have seen the fastest growth in commercial aviation history. 

Technologies like composite fan blades and ceramic matrix composites deliver an engine that’s 15% more fuel efficient and produces 15% lower carbon emissions compared to the previous CFM56 engines. 

Additionally, the CFM LEAP engines come with “advanced health monitoring systems” and an open MRO ecosystem. This ensures the engines provide “mature reliability” and enable high asset utilization for narrowbody aircraft. 

Riyadh Air is a new premium international airline based in Saudi Arabia, launched in 2023 as part of the country’s initiative to “diversify its economy”. 

AeroTime is covering the Dubai Airshow 2025 live from the show floor, delivering breaking news and exclusive insights throughout the week. Drop by booth #294 to meet our team during the event.   

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