This development marks the transition from exclusive “Pathway to Perfect” operations to full commercial service available to all travellers.

A New Era of Premium Air Travel

Riyadh Air has been operating daily flights between Riyadh (RUH) and London Heathrow (LHR) since late October 2025. Until now, these services used a leased Boeing 787-9, named “Jamila”, primarily for employees of the airline and Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), along with their families.

This soft-launch approach allowed the airline to refine operations, crew training, and service standards ahead of public debut.

The new aircraft feature Riyadh Air’s signature interior, designed to deliver exceptional comfort and Saudi hospitality.

CEO Tony Douglas highlighted the milestone. “Today marks a truly exciting milestone for Riyadh Air as we introduce our new aircraft and signature premium experience on our established London route.”

“It demonstrates our deep commitment to delivering a truly world-class journey for our guests, one that blends exceptional comfort, cutting-edge technology and our distinctive Saudi ‘Hafawa’ hospitality from the moment they step on board.”

Cabin Design Without Traditional First Class

Riyadh Air’s Boeing 787-9 is configured in a smart two-class-plus layout with 290 seats total. It skips a conventional first-class cabin to maximize space and yield while offering superior premium experiences.

Business Elite (4 seats)

Located in the front row, these ultra-premium suites feature 32-inch 4K OLED screens and can convert into double beds (in centre pairs) for couples. They provide enhanced privacy, storage, and a social dining space.

Business Class (24 seats)

Arranged in a spacious 1-2-1 configuration using the Safran Unity platform. Each suite offers 52-inch high walls for privacy, 22-inch 4K OLED screens, and impressive customization inspired by Saudi architecture.

Premium Economy and Economy

Further back, passengers enjoy generous Recaro seats with ample pitch and high-quality entertainment.

A standout innovation is the Devialet Euphony audio system. Integrated speakers in the headrest create a personal sound bubble with active cabin noise compensation, allowing high-fidelity audio without traditional headphones. The cabin design draws from Saudi landscapes, using calming indigo, mocha, and lavender tones for a serene atmosphere.

Route Details and Connectivity

The daily schedule includes:

• RX401: Riyadh to London, departing 2:35 AM, arriving 7:30 AM
• RX402: London to Riyadh, departing 9:35 AM, arriving 6:05 PM

This route supports Saudi Vision 2030 by strengthening ties with the UK and serving as a gateway to Riyadh’s growing network, which will eventually include destinations like Jeddah, Cairo, and Dubai.

The airline aims to serve over 100 global destinations by 2030 with a large fleet of Boeing 787-9s and other aircraft.

Conclusion

Riyadh Air’s launch represents more than a new flight schedule. It showcases Saudi Arabia’s investment in aviation excellence, combining Boeing’s efficient Dreamliner technology with bespoke design and hospitality.

Passengers can expect modern amenities, including high-speed Viasat Wi-Fi, premium dining, and a focus on comfort that rivals or exceeds established carriers.

As public sales open and new Dreamliners enter service, travellers gain a compelling new option for travel between the UK and Saudi Arabia.

Whether for business or leisure, Riyadh Air promises a fresh, luxurious journey that embodies the future of air travel.

Credits: Riyadh Air

The post Riyadh Air Introduces New Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners on Riyadh-London Route first appeared on AircrewNews.com.

The move reinforces the airline’s long-term expansion strategy, enabling it to strengthen its intercontinental network from Addis Ababa while boosting cargo capacity amid rising global demand for long-haul travel.

“Converting the options of six Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner airplanes into a firm order is truly a proud moment for us,” said CEO of Ethiopian Airlines, Mesfin Tasew.

“This order reflects our commitment to sustainable growth and operational excellence. By expanding our fleet with advanced aircraft like the 787-9, we continue to enhance passenger comfort while preparing for future opportunities.”

Ethiopian Airlines already operates Africa’s largest Dreamliner fleet, deploying its 787-8 and 787-9 aircraft on high-demand routes connecting Africa with Europe, Asia, and North America, as well as key destinations across the continent.

“We’re proud that Ethiopian Airlines continues to rely on the 787 Dreamliner as the backbone of its fleet,” said Anbessie Yitbarek, Boeing vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Africa.

“These airplanes support the airline’s growth, help open new routes, and deliver an exceptional passenger experience.”

Known for its fuel efficiency and operational flexibility, the 787 Dreamliner enables Ethiopian Airlines to serve long-haul routes more efficiently while also supporting cargo transport in high-demand trade corridors.

About Ethiopian Airlines

Ethiopian Airlines is Africa’s largest airline group and one of the fastest-growing aviation brands globally. The carrier serves more than 145 destinations worldwide and operates a fleet of over 170 modern aircraft, with an average age of approximately seven years. A member of Star Alliance, Ethiopian Airlines has been recognized multiple times by Skytrax as the Best Airline in Africa.

About Boeing

Boeing is a leading global aerospace company and one of the largest U.S. exporters. The company designs, manufactures, and services commercial airplanes, defense systems, and space technologies for customers in more than 150 countries.

Credits: Ethiopian Airlines

The post Ethiopian Airlines finalizes six 787 jets first appeared on AircrewNews.com.