Riyadh Air firms up order for six more Airbus A350-1000s at Farnborough 2026

Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s new premium international carrier, has firmed up an order for six additional Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, bringing its total firm commitment for the type to 31 jets.

Announced at the Farnborough International Airshow on July 20, 2026, the deal builds on the airline’s original 2025 commitment for up to 50 A350-1000s. 

With this order, Riyadh Air becomes the first airline in Saudi Arabia to fly the aircraft, positioning it as a key part of the carrier’s international growth plans and the Kingdom’s broader Vision 2030 objectives.

Exciting news from #FIA2026! @RiyadhAir has firmed up an order for six additional #A350-1000s, bringing its total commitment to 31 aircraft. Riyadh Air will be the first airline in Saudi Arabia to operate the #LongRangeLeader, supporting its international growth ambitions.… https://t.co/tcyGwteEdr— Airbus (@Airbus) July 20, 2026 A growing vote of confidence in the A350-1000

Adam Boukadida, Chief Financial Officer of Riyadh Air, said the move reflects “Riyadh Air’s continued confidence in its growth trajectory and in the future of Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector.” 

He added that raising the A350-1000 commitment to 31 aircraft “strengthens the foundation of our future network,” supporting the airline’s ambition to serve more than 100 global destinations by 2030 while maintaining a premium guest experience.

Benoit de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business, said Airbus is “proud to deepen our partnership with Riyadh Air,” calling the order a reflection of the airline’s confidence in the A350-1000’s “exceptional efficiency, range and passenger appeal.” 

He added that the aircraft is expected to play an important role in supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals and its ambition to become a leading international aviation hub.

Inside the A350-1000’s edge

Airbus describes the A350 as the world’s most modern widebody aircraft, built to fly up to 9,700 nautical miles, or roughly 18,000 kilometers, without stopping, a range that sets a high bar for intercontinental travel. 

The aircraft is designed around advanced aerodynamics and technology aimed at improving both efficiency and passenger comfort.

Its latest-generation Rolls-Royce engines and use of lightweight materials give it a 25% advantage in fuel burn, operating costs, and carbon dioxide emissions compared to older competing aircraft. 

Onboard, the A350’s Airspace cabin brings newer in-flight features designed to improve comfort for both passengers and crew.

A widebody program with a strong track record

The order also adds to what’s already one of the most successful widebody aircraft programs in the industry. 

By the end of June 2026, the A350 family had accumulated 1,595 firm orders from 68 customers around the world.

For Riyadh Air, the aircraft is expected to serve as a core part of its long-haul network as the airline works toward its goal of connecting Riyadh, a G20 capital, to more than 100 destinations worldwide by 2030, a target central to Saudi Arabia’s push to diversify its economy beyond oil. The airline also firmed up an additional order for 28 Boeing 787 Dreamliners at Farnborough.

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