SAUDI ARABIA: The fleet upgrade is designed to handle the anticipated surge in travel demand during these major global events, as the airline aims to nearly double its fleet from 190 to 381 planes by 2032.
Abdullah Al Shahrani, spokesperson for the Saudi Airlines Group, emphasized the importance of this expansion in accommodating millions of visitors expected for both events. The airline also plans to expand its global network, aiming to serve 200 international destinations by 2030, up from its current 100.
As part of this vision, electric aircraft will play a key role during Expo 2030 and the World Cup, providing fast, eco-friendly transportation between host cities. This is in line with Saudi Arabia’s broader goal to diversify and modernize its aviation sector as part of the Vision 2030 economic plan.
Read More
- India sets Guinness record with largest national flag unfurled underwater in Andaman and Nicobar Islands
- Philippines’ most active volcano erupts again
- Iranian supertanker slips past US blockade with $220 million cargo
- US decides to withdraw 5,000 troops from its forces in Germany, NATO balance in focus
- UK permits airlines to merge flights to save fuel as Middle East conflict persists
Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector already contributes $53 billion annually to the national economy, with significant portions coming from tourism and aviation activities. With Expo 2030 projected to attract 40 million visitors and the World Cup bringing in global attention, the Kingdom’s aviation industry is set to play a key role in its economic transformation.
This ambitious fleet expansion is part of a broader strategy, with the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) targeting a tenfold increase in the sector’s GDP contribution by 2030.
