- Riyadh Air, the recently launched Saudi Arabian airline backed by the Public Investment Fund, is reportedly in the final stages of negotiations for the potential acquisition of up to 100 Boeing 737 Max jets, as per a Bloomberg report. According to sources familiar with the matter, the airline intends to expand its fleet with short-haul aircraft. The carrier is contemplating placing a solid order for 50 jets and an equivalent number of options at the Dubai Air Show, commencing on Monday.
- While discussions are ongoing, the exact number may undergo slight adjustments, the sources added. Bloomberg had previously noted that Boeing was actively pursuing Riyadh Air for a substantial 737 MAX order, possibly totaling 150 aircraft. This move by Boeing was seen as capitalizing on Airbus' growing A321neo backlog, which posed challenges for timely deliveries before 2029.
Why it matters
In a noteworthy development from March, Riyadh Air had already disclosed an order for up to 72 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner airplanes in a multi-billion dollar agreement. The order encompassed 39 confirmed aircraft, with an option to acquire an additional 33 wide-body 787-9 Dreamliner airplanes.
