Riyadh Air, Saudia codeshare partnership

Saudi carriers Riyadh Air and Saudia launched the first phase of a strategic partnership this week. The move is intended to improve connectivity within the kingdom and for international travelers.

Riyadh Air's code will now appear on six Saudia-operated domestic routes. These flights all operate to and from King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, which is Riyadh Air's main hub. The connected Saudi cities are Abha, Al Qassim, Dammam, Jeddah, Medina, and Tabuk.

With the codeshare, passengers can book a single ticket combining a domestic Saudia flight to Riyadh and an international Riyadh Air flight. The same seamless booking applies for passengers arriving into Saudi Arabia on Riyadh Air and then connecting to one of the six cities on Saudia, officials stated.

Enhanced connectivity for passengers

Riyadh Air explained the logic behind the link-up. "By placing its RX code on Saudia’s frequent daily flights between Riyadh and the six destinations covered by the codeshare, Riyadh Air will be able to ensure that its guests have the most convenient possible connecting option," the airline said. The connection is tailored to the timing of Riyadh Air flights at RUH.

Officials highlighted the operational convenience. Both carriers operate within the same terminal complex at King Khalid International Airport. This setup allows for swift transfers. Luggage can be checked through to the traveler's final destination on a single ticket.

Strategic partnership between flag carriers

Riyadh Air and Saudia both serve as flag carriers for Saudi Arabia. Saudia is the older, more established airline. Riyadh Air was formed in 2023 and began full commercial operations only this summer.

The foundations for this cooperation were laid in 2023. The two airlines signed a strategic cooperation agreement at that time. It paved the way for the current codesharing and future route coordination.

Riyadh Air's current international network provides the outbound connections. The new airline currently serves London Heathrow, Jeddah, Dubai, Cairo, Manchester, and Madrid. The codeshare effectively extends its reach deep into the Saudi domestic market via Saudia's extensive fixtures. For travelers, understanding the partnership is key to navigating the kingdom's evolving standings in global aviation.