en.Wedoany.com Reported - Saudi Arabia's new airline, Riyadh Air, has received formal approval from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to operate passenger and cargo flights between Saudi Arabia and the United States. This decision removes a key regulatory barrier for the airline to operate long-haul routes using its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner fleet.

Founded in 2023, Riyadh Air is part of Saudi Arabia's economic diversification strategy, aimed at reducing dependence on oil and developing the tourism, logistics, and aviation sectors. While this authorization does not mean immediate launch of regular U.S. flights, it enables Riyadh Air to enter one of the world's most strategically significant aviation markets and advance preparations for transatlantic services.

The U.S. Department of Transportation stated in its order that granting this authority is in the public interest. Riyadh Air submitted its application for authorization in May, and plans to build a global network covering over 100 international destinations by 2030. The airline has established or plans to establish partnerships with several international carriers, including Delta Air Lines.

The approval comes as Riyadh Air has begun receiving the core fleet supporting its long-haul operations. Earlier this month, Boeing delivered the first two customized 787 Dreamliners to the airline. Riyadh Air has ordered up to 72 Boeing 787 aircraft and has additionally committed to ordering Airbus A321neo and Airbus A350 aircraft.

CEO Tony Douglas stated that this is one of the largest startup airlines in modern aviation history. The airline's operational growth is accelerating, with its fleet expected to expand to eight aircraft by the end of July, and management plans to serve 22 destinations by March 2027.

Riyadh Air's expansion is closely tied to Saudi Arabia's "Vision 2030" economic transformation agenda, which aims to boost international tourism, attract investment, and strengthen the Kingdom's role as a global transportation hub. The airline has announced routes to destinations including Cairo, Dubai, Jeddah, Madrid, Manchester, and London, with London being the first international service operated using the new Boeing fleet. Delta Air Lines has also previously announced plans to launch direct flights between Atlanta and Riyadh, reflecting growing demand for direct connectivity between the two countries.

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