Riyadh Air Eyes US Flights as Saudi Arabia Chases Gulf Hub Status

Riyadh Air has applied for permission to operate flights to the US, moving closer to its long-haul growth plan.

The airline filed with the US Department of Transportation on May 5, 2026, seeking approval to carry passengers, cargo, and mail between Saudi Arabia and the US. The filing covers scheduled and charter flights.

A step toward US flights

The US filing is important because Riyadh Air is still moving from launch project to real airline. Since it was announced in 2023, the carrier has built a strong brand, ordered aircraft, and signed partnerships. But repeated aircraft delays have slowed its full commercial rollout.

For the travel industry, US approval would open the door to one of the world’s most important long-haul markets. It would also help Riyadh compete more directly with major Gulf hubs such as Dubai, Doha, and Abu Dhabi. Saudi Arabia wants aviation and tourism to become larger parts of its economy, with a goal of reaching 330 million annual passengers by 2030.

Riyadh Air is already testing the market

Riyadh Air has already started limited flights between Riyadh and London Heathrow. The service began on October 26, 2025, using a Boeing 787-9 aircraft as part of the airline’s “Pathway to Perfect” rollout. The idea was to test operations before opening the airline fully to the public.

The rollout has now become more public. Riyadh Air tickets between Riyadh and London were available through online travel sellers, even though the airline had not made a major public sales announcement. The flights appeared on platforms such as Trip.com and Skyscanner, with results pointing to several online travel agencies.

The network plan depends on aircraft deliveries

Riyadh Air wants to serve more than 100 destinations by 2030. Its planned network already includes London, Dubai, Cairo, Jeddah, Manchester, and Madrid. These routes show the airline’s early focus on major European cities, regional links, and domestic Saudi traffic.

The main obstacle is aircraft supply. Riyadh Air has ordered Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners and Airbus A321neo aircraft, while A350s are expected to support future US services.

This also fits a wider shift in Saudi aviation. Riyadh Air has already been building its distribution base before full launch, including a global agreement with Amadeus to make its future content available to travel sellers.

Photo by Andreas M on Unsplash