Tag Archives: Saudia

SAUDIA unveiled a range of cutting-edge seat models for its upcoming fleet, and to retrofit its current fleet, as part of an array of innovative initiatives aimed at revolutionizing the travel experience. The three-day event took place at the SAUDIA club and exhibited a range of seating models for its Business and Economy class seats. These proposed models are intended to be installed in SAUDIA’s forthcoming fleet of Boeing B787 Dreamliner aircraft, set to join the airline’s fleet starting in 2025. The total number of aircraft to be received is 39. Alongside this, the airline is also undertaking continuous developmental projects for its current fleet of Airbus A330 and Boeing B777, which involve implementing guest feedback to retrofit the existing blue seats and an upgrade of the in-flight entertainment systems with a new system called BEYOND. The new system is set to provide guests with a rich interactive experience tailored to meet the needs of various age groups and passenger types. This initiative is a part of SAUDIA’s broader aim to radically transform the travel experience in alignment with its expansion plans to increase the number of destinations, thereby connecting the Kingdom with the world. The event saw attendance and sought feedback from members of the Al-Fursan loyalty program and was graced by the presence of His Excellency Engr. Ibrahim Al Omar, Director General of SAUDIA Group. The display included a new suite for the Business class, featuring a fully flat 180-degree seat with automatic sliding doors. Some showcased suites also boasted a 32-inch screen with 4K resolution. Economy class seat models were also presented, equipped with the latest comfort features, including storage areas and 13.3-inch seatback entertainment screens. These …

SAUDIA shares that there was a noteworthy 52% increase in the number of international guests transported during the first half of 2023, with a total of 7.4 million guests. Additionally, the airline operated 37,600 flights, marking a significant 30% growth. SAUDIA extended its reach to four continents, accumulating an impressive 180,700 flight hours, a remarkable 40% increase compared to previous periods. The report also underscores the successful transport of 6.3 million guests on domestic routes, achieved through the operation of 47,700 flights, accumulating 80,800 flight hours. SAUDIA (Saudi Arabian Airlines) continues to contribute to the development of tourism, business, Hajj and Umrah sectors with their remarkable operational performance, as evident by the performance report for the first half of 2023. The report highlights the transportation of over 13.7 million guests on both domestic and international routes, representing a substantial 24% increase compared to the same period last year. This impressive feat was accomplished through the operation of 85,400 flights, reflecting a growth rate of 6%. Furthermore, flight hours surged by an impressive 22%, reaching a total of 261,600 hours. Notably, the overall flight punctuality rate reached an impressive 86,3%. Capt. Ibrahim Koshy, CEO of SAUDIA, highlighted the outstanding flight operations, punctuality rates, and guest transportation achieved during this period. These accomplishments align with the airline’s commitment to efficiency and operational safety, which are of paramount importance. Capt. Koshy also emphasized the crucial role played by the national flag carrier in supporting the growth of the tourism, business, Hajj and Umrah sectors through strategic partnerships. Moreover, SAUDIA has increased its seat capacity and flight frequency to cater to the growing demand for travel, firmly establishing itself as a key player in …

Saudi Arabian Airlines (SAUDIA) continues to implement its operational plan for Summer 2023 by providing over 7.4 million seats for domestic and international routes during July and August, a 10% increase compared to the same period in 2022. The airline will operate more than 32,400 flights, reflecting a 4% increase. These measures aim to meet high demand during peak seasons and ensure smooth operations, efficient reservations for scheduled and seasonal destinations, and streamlined processes at airports. For international flights, SAUDIA is providing more than 4.2 million seats, achieving a 16% increase. Additionally, the airline is introducing over 14,800 flights , reflecting a 15% increase. On domestic routes, over 3.2 million seats will be available through 17,600 flights. The operational plan for the summer of 2023 is continuously monitored by dedicated teams to evaluate its performance. Captain Ibrahim Koshy, CEO of SAUDIA, emphasized the airline’s extensive experience in managing operations throughout the year, especially during peak seasons. The plan includes increasing flights, seat capacity, and introducing seasonal destinations to meet guests’ needs while providing excellent services. He also acknowledged the various challenges in the aviation industry. One upcoming challenge is managing the departure of Hajj pilgrims from Makkah. The airline has implemented comprehensive procedures and prepared the necessary facilities to ensure a successful summer season and Hajj pilgrimage. SAUDIA relies on its young fleet and dedicated team from Saudia Aerospace Engineering Industries (SAEI) to maintain on-time performance of the aircraft. Earlier this year, SAUDIA Group announced the addition of 25 new international destinations, expanding its network to over 100 destinations. This expansion aims to provide more options for travelers and to connect the world with Saudi Arabia. As part of the …

SAUDIA has launched its first direct flight to its new international destination Birmingham, United Kingdom in collaboration with the Air Connectivity Program (ACP). The program was launched in 2021 to support tourism growth in the Kingdom by enhancing air connectivity and developing existing and prospective air routes, connecting Saudi Arabia to new destinations. Manal Alshehri, Vice President of Passenger Sales at SAUDIA said: “We are proud to be expanding our operations in the United Kingdom and continue to regularly offer new destinations to our guests. The United Kingdom is a very important destination for SAUDIA, and the launch of new direct flights to and from Birmingham highlights the strengthening of relations between our two countries. We’re also very grateful for the continuous support from the Air Connectivity Program, which enables us to continue to grow as we work towards our objective to bring the world to Saudi Arabia.” Sultan Otaify, Vice President of Strategy and Communication at ACP said: “In collaboration with ACP, SAUDIA has launched a direct flight to Birmingham, a city steeped in history and a renowned hub of the Industrial Revolution. As this new route becomes part of the growing air network facilitated by ACP, it significantly contributes to the flourishing tourism between Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom. It is through such bilateral initiatives that we witness the positive trajectory of Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom’s relationship, as both countries strive to simplify and streamline travel processes. ACP is committed to empowering carriers in their efforts to unlock new destinations and travel experiences that showcase the rich cultural heritage and diverse attractions of Saudi Arabia.’’ The inaugural SAUDIA flight going from Jeddah to Birmingham (SV …

SAUDIA launched its first flight from King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh to Nice Côte d’Azur International Airport in Nice, France. This marks SAUDIA’s second destination in France as part of its phased implementation strategy aimed at expanding its international network. It is also the newest Summer seasonal destination SAUDIA introduced this year. Baakdah emphasized the significance of strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries through the introduction of SAUDIA’s flights to Nice Airport and connecting the existing flights to Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris. This was part of the plan announced at the beginning of this year to expand the airline’s existing flight network. As part of the plan, SAUDIA aims to increase the number of destinations and expand the aircraft fleet to achieve operational goals. Additionally, SAUDIA has been focusing on developing its digital service ecosystem to enhance the guest experience. The inaugural SAUDIA flight, SV129, departed from King Khalid International Airport to the city of Nice, in the presence of Mr. Mohammad Baakdah, the Vice President of Ground Operations at SAUDIA, and Mr. Mohammed Alshammari, the Chief Operations Officer at Riyadh Airports Company, along with several operations and management officials. To commemorate the flight’s launch, a ribbon-cutting ceremony took place at the airport at AlFursan International Lounge.

SAUDIA proudly launched its inaugural flight from King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah to Gatwick International Airport in London. Gatwick Airport holds the second position among the United Kingdom’s airports. This launch is part of the implementation stages of the airline’s new strategy, aimed at expanding its reach to new international destinations, and connecting the world to the Kingdom, based on marketing and operational studies. It aligns with the vision of SAUDIA Group to operate flights to 25 destinations across 3 continents. The inaugural flight of SAUDIA, SV119, departed from King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah to the city of London. The event was attended by Mrs. Cecille El Beleidi, the British Consul General in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and Mr. Mohammed Baakdhah, Vice President of Ground Operations at SAUDIA. The inauguration ceremony was held at the AlFursan Lounge, signaling the departure of the first flight at the airport. Mohammad Baakdhah highlighted the importance of strengthening relations between the two countries through the launch of new destinations by SAUDIA to Gatwick Airport, and soon to Birmingham. These additions will join the existing flights to London Heathrow Airport and Manchester International Airport. He further explained that the increase in destinations is accompanied by an unprecedented development of the SAUDIA fleet, ensuring the achievement of operational targets, in addition to continuous improvement in the digital service system.

Saudi Arabian Airlines (SAUDIA) and Saudi insurance company, Al-Rajhi Takaful have signed an agreement ensuring that guests traveling from the Kingdom have access to a comprehensive travel insurance policy which they can secure online. This partnership highlights SAUDIA’s commitment to expanding its after-sales services while enhancing passengers travel experience. The signing took place at SAUDIA’s Headquarters, in the presence of Captain Ibrahim Al-Koshy, CEO of SAUDIA, and Mr. Saud Ghonem Bin Ghonem, CEO of Takaful Al-Rajhi Insurance Company. Under this agreement, SAUDIA guests traveling from the Kingdom to various parts of the world will be equipped with a comprehensive travel insurance. SAUDIA guests will receive special prices on the travel insurance. The service can be used digitally during the completion of travel procedures through SAUDIA’s website (www.saudia.com) and smart phone application, the link will then direct users to the Al-Rajhi Takaful system to complete the process and benefit from a range of services, including cases of emergencies and claims. Captain Ibrahim Koshy, CEO of SAUDIA said: “At SAUDIA enhancing guest experience and providing them with the best services is one of our main priorities. This includes our partnership with introducing Al Rajhi Takaful as we are witnessing increasing demand, indicating that what distinguishes this service is the ease of transition between SAUDIA and Al Rajhi Takaful systems. This agreement ensures the facilitation of the travel insurance purchasing process, while providing direct support to our guests to ensure their comfort and guarantee a travel experience worth repeating. These services, among others, are constantly reviewed and evaluated, while utilizing guests’ feedback to undertake developments that meet their expectations”. Saud Ghonem Bin Ghonem, CEO of Takaful Al-Rajhi said: “This agreement aligns with the …

SAUDIA has signed an agreement with global professional services firm Accenture paving the way for a digital transformation program that will make the airline’s guest experience seamless and highly personalized while improving operational efficiency. His Excellency the Director General of SAUDIA Group, Eng. Ibrahim bin Abdul Rahman Al-Omar and the Chief Executive Officer of Accenture, Julie Sweet, during a meeting to announce the new collaboration. Through this agreement, SAUDIA will use artificial intelligence technologies to significantly enhance its digital infrastructure and build more than 260 new digital and electronic services in two years. SAUDIA’s guests will be able to enjoy more personalized services and a smooth travel experience possible across the entire travel cycle, from ticket search and booking to check-in, and from in-flight services to post-sale support. All the digital systems developed by Accenture will be designed specifically for SAUDIA, increasing operational efficiency and reducing operational costs, thanks to a new enterprise-wide cloud-based data foundation. This agreement will include several tracks to enhance SAUDIA’s guest value and help deliver the company’s strategic objectives. Specific initiatives will include a digital experience studio, digital infrastructure decoupling that accelerates and de-risks digital transformation processes, modernization of technical systems, creation of a cloud data lake, and development of a smart guest care center. “SAUDIA is looking to reimagine how our guests can choose, buy and enjoy leisure, business, and religious experiences,” said Dr. Khaled Alhazmi, Chief Information Officer, SAUDIA. “With Accenture’s support, we will create seamless and curated journeys with hyper-relevant experiences across digital and human-driven interactions. Guests will be able to modify flights, purchase transit eVisas, and enjoy new self-service features across all digital channels.” “Through this strategic collaboration, our primary aim …

Saudi Arabian Airlines (SAUDIA) has signed a partnership agreement with Bondai, a one-stop travel app that empowers friends and groups alike to plan unique experiences and adventures around the Kingdom. The travel app provides a trustworthy and safe digital ecosystem to help users to plan their next trip including access to flights, transportation, accommodation, and activities. From mountain hikes and camping around a campfire, to snorkelling in marine-life rich waters, Bondai enables travellers to explore popular spots and hidden gems all around the country. As part of the MoU, which was signed by Mrs. Manal Alshehri, VP Passenger Sales at SAUDIA and Mrs. Saria Elderhali, CEO of Bondai during the 2023 Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai, SAUDIA will collaborate with the technology travel company to provide best-in-class tours and experiences. The partnership forms an important part of SAUDIA’s commitment to supporting inbound tourism within the Kingdom as the ‘wings of Vision 2030’. Mrs. Manal Alshehri, said: “At SAUDIA we are deeply committed to collaborating with innovative partners that share our mission to transform Saudi Arabia into a world-class tourism hub. As part of Vision 2030 there are plans to raise the contribution of the tourism sector to more than ten percent of GDP in addition to providing one million job opportunities within the Kingdom. We are dedicated to further bolstering this promising sector by contributing to unique experiences and trips that bring the very best of Saudi Arabia to travellers everywhere.” From Bondai, Founder & CEO Ms. Saria Alderhali commented “I am thrilled to be partnering with Saudia Holidays. This partnership marks a major milestone for Bondai, as it allows us to expand our reach and provide even more travelers with …

Saudi Arabian Airlines (SAUDIA) and Kuwait Airways announced a codeshare agreement, which provides enhanced connections and convenience to guests of both airlines, in a signing ceremony that took place in SAUDIA’s headquarter in Jeddah. As part of its codeshare cooperation, each airline will place the other airline’s marketing code on its flights operated between Saudi Arabia and Kuwait and other routes with the alliance; the agreement will come into effect after obtaining all approvals. Both airlines agreed to expand all kinds of Interline Cooperation and the implementation is expected during the Summer Season 2023. The codeshare will further promote bilateral and strategic partnership for the benefit of both airlines, enabling them to offer more competitive and cost-effective services that will allow their guests to enjoy a better travelling experience. The new Codeshare partnership will strengthen and take to new heights the cordial commercial long-standing relationship existing between SAUDIA and Kuwait Airways. SAUDIA has been carrying guests between Saudi Arabia and Kuwait by operating four daily flights. Similarly, Kuwait Airways has been serving passengers on this route and operating six daily flights between Kuwait and Saudi Arabia. Guests may expect to gain all the benefits of codeshare flights including seamless connectivity, baggage transfer and the convenience of having their entire journey managed by one airline from the purchasing of tickets to the arrival at their final destination. Furthermore, guests of both airlines will enjoy increased alternative flight options across each other’s network. SAUDIA CEO, Captain Ibrahim Koshy said: “We are delighted to partner with Kuwait Airways and give their guests the opportunity to experience SAUDIA’s world-renowned hospitality onboard. We look forward to further growing our relationship with this important partner and …