Saudia Group’s Airbus Deal Set to Enhance Air Links with Pakistan

 KARACHI:

Saudia Group has signed a major deal with Airbus to add up to 20 new wide-body A330neo aircraft to its fleet, including 10 firm orders for flyadeal, its low-cost carrier. This deal, which aims to enhance fleet modernization and operational reach, may have positive implications for Pakistan, particularly in terms of boosting regional connectivity, tourism, and economic growth.

Renowned for its efficiency, long range, and exceptional versatility, the A330neo model aligns perfectly with the Group’s strategy to expand its operational reach and introduce more destinations. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2027, supporting the growing demand for air travel between Saudi Arabia and neighbouring countries, including Pakistan.

Pakistan, as a key partner in regional trade, tourism, and travel, stands to benefit from increased flight connectivity and potential collaborations between the two nations in the aviation and tourism sectors. Saudia Group’s expansion is in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which aims to connect 250 destinations and attract millions of tourists — a goal that will likely include growing tourist traffic between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.

The signing ceremony was held at the Airbus factory in Toulouse, France, in the presence of H.E. Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, and Christian Scherer, CEO of the Commercial Aircraft business. The deal was signed by Saleh Eid, Vice President of Fleet Management at Saudia Group, and Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Executive Vice President of Sales of Commercial Aircraft at Airbus.

H.E. Engr. Ibrahim Al-Omar stated: “Today’s deal marks a pivotal milestone in our ambitious strategy to modernize and expand our fleet. It builds on last year’s historic agreement with Airbus for 105 aircraft. This step aligns with our national strategies under Saudi Vision 2030, which aim to connect 250 destinations and facilitate the travel of over 330 million travelers and 150 million tourists by 2030.”

 Saudia Group, which currently operates 194 aircraft across commercial, cargo, and logistics services, is set to expand with 191 new aircraft deliveries. This growth supports Saudi Arabia’s economic vision and opens new opportunities for enhanced air connectivity with Pakistan.