Saudi Arabia’s budget airline Flyadeal is mulling over expanding its fleet of single-aisle Airbus planes and enhancing its existing order of 50 narrow-body jets to facilitate the growth of its international route network.
Flyadeal, which exclusively operates Airbus aircraft, is exploring the possibility of upgrading its current order of A320 Neos and A321 Neos to more advanced models, revealed Steven Greenway, the airline’s new CEO.
The potential upgrade aims to boost the maximum take-off weight, enhance engine performance, and obtain ETOPS certification, enabling longer flights over water.
Moreover, Flyadeal is contemplating increasing the number of larger A321 Neos in its current order to address capacity limitations at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh and restricted landing slots at busy airports.
Once the decisions regarding the modifications to the existing order are finalised, Flyadeal may consider placing a new order for Airbus A320 Neos and A321 Neos within the next two months, according to Mr Greenway.
The scale of the new aircraft deal hinges on the modifications planned for the current order, with announcements expected in the following months.
These enhancements, along with a potential new order, will enable Flyadeal to bolster traffic flow to Saudia, its sister airline, and extend its reach to more international destinations in South Asia and Europe, beyond its primarily domestic network.
Mr Greenway highlighted the significance of aircraft capabilities and range as Flyadeal aims to broaden its international route network.
Established in September 2017, Flyadeal aims to triple its fleet size to 100 aircraft within the next five years, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 to diversify the economy and boost the aviation sector.
Flyadeal competes with Flynas, another budget carrier based in Riyadh, which recently announced plans to list its shares on the Tadawul stock exchange.
Mr Greenway emphasised sustainable growth and achieving end-of-year targets as key priorities for Flyadeal, amid challenges in the global aviation industry, including supply chain constraints.
Flyadeal’s focus on expanding its international routes aligns with its goal to connect Saudi Arabia with the rest of the world and attract more foreign visitors, while still catering to domestic demand.
The airline plans to announce several new international route launches in the latter half of 2024, with the aim of stimulating travel demand, particularly with the potential introduction of a single Gulf visa.
Flyadeal’s expansion plans also include increasing its workforce, with a target of hiring about 600 staff in 2024 and further expansion in the following years.
The airline is exploring new bases to accommodate its growing fleet and aims to carry 10 million passengers by the end of 2024, with a focus on improving operational efficiency and passenger experience.