Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – The first Riyadh Air Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, adorned in the airline’s stunning pearl livery, has landed at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. This leased aircraft marks a significant milestone for Riyadh Air and will serve as a technical spare and training asset.

This leased aircraft is in addition to Riyadh Air’s original order of 72 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners. It will be utilized over the coming months for pilot and crew training, as well as to support the airline’s Air Operator Certificate (AOC) process with the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA). Once operational readiness is achieved, the aircraft will serve as a technical spare to ensure smooth operations when Riyadh Air begins service in 2025.

While this aircraft does not feature the highly anticipated cabin interiors—set to be unveiled soon - it has been equipped with a high-specification interior to meet the expectations of guests flying with a world-class, modern airline, should it be needed. By introducing the aircraft now as a technical spare, it allows Riyadh Air to start services as soon as possible, once the first two B787-9 aircraft are delivered later in 2025.

The decision to lease this plane reflects Riyadh Air’s innovative approach to accelerating its readiness to serve Riyadh and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. By introducing this aircraft, Riyadh Air is taking an important step toward its goal of delivering a world-class travel experience starting in 2025.