Riyadh Air has officially opened public ticket sales for its new daily service between King Khalid International Airport and London Heathrow Airport, marking a major step in the airline’s international expansion strategy as it prepares to deploy its flagship Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners on the route beginning July 1, 2026.
The route connects the Saudi and British capitals, two major G20 economic centers, and is expected to strengthen commercial, tourism, and investment ties between the two countries. Public bookings opened May 19 through the airline’s mobile app, official website, and authorized travel partners.
Riyadh Air Transitions London Operations to New Dreamliner Fleet
Daily Flights Move Beyond Operational Readiness Program
Riyadh Air has already been operating flights between Riyadh and London since October 26, 2025, using a technical spare aircraft known internally as “Jamila” as part of the airline’s Pathway to Perfect operational readiness initiative. Those flights will continue through June 30, 2026, with tickets still available through approved travel agencies.
Beginning July 1, however, the London service will transition fully to the airline’s newly delivered Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, which feature a four-class cabin layout and upgraded premium offerings aimed at competing with leading global carriers on long-haul international routes.
Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air, said the launch represents an important milestone for the airline’s commercial rollout.
“He stated the airline aims to deliver a world-class journey that combines comfort, technology, and Saudi ‘Hafawa’ hospitality.”
Douglas also emphasized the strategic importance of the UK market to the airline’s long-term plans, noting that stronger connectivity between Saudi Arabia and Britain aligns with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 economic diversification agenda.
Flight Schedule Targets Business and Leisure Travelers
Daily Heathrow Service Designed Around Long-Haul Connectivity
Riyadh Air will operate one daily flight in each direction on the route.
Flight RX401 will depart Riyadh at 02:35 local time and arrive in London Heathrow at 07:30. The return service, Flight RX402, departs London Heathrow at 09:35 and arrives back in Riyadh at 18:05 local time.
The airline said the London route is expected to become a cornerstone of its UK growth strategy, supporting increased tourism and commercial activity while positioning Riyadh as a major connecting hub for passengers traveling onward to destinations across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East.
Boeing 787-9 Features Four-Class Premium Configuration
Airline Highlights Technology and Passenger Comfort
The Boeing 787-9 aircraft will feature four cabin classes: Business Elite, Business, Premium Economy, and Economy. Business Elite and Business cabins will use a fully flat-bed 1-2-1 configuration, offering direct aisle access along with AC power outlets, USB charging ports, and integrated high-fidelity audio systems.
Premium Economy will feature a 2-3-2 layout with enhanced privacy wings, expanded storage space, and multiple USB-C charging points. Economy seating will use a 3-3-3 arrangement with adjustable headrests and upgraded cushioning materials intended to improve passenger comfort on long-haul flights.
All seats across the aircraft will include Bluetooth audio connectivity alongside traditional headphone jacks.
Entertainment and Hospitality Positioned as Key Selling Points
Riyadh Air Introduces Saudi-Branded Amenities and Enhanced Connectivity
The airline’s Dreamliners will also debut the Panasonic Avionics Astrova entertainment platform, which includes access to more than 500 movies and 600 television series through partnerships with services including Disney, Warner Bros., HBO Max, and Shahid. Passengers will also have access to over 1,000 music albums and playlists.
Riyadh Air said the onboard experience will feature Saudi-made Kayanee amenity products, bedding from John Horsfall, and specialized Disney-themed kits for younger travelers. Business-class passengers will also receive Kayanee-branded loungewear as part of the carrier’s premium hospitality offering.
Sfeer Loyalty Program Targets Early Adopters
Founding Members Receive Priority Access and Added Benefits
The airline is also encouraging travelers to enroll in its “Sfeer” loyalty program, which combines the Arabic word for “Ambassador” with the English word “sphere.”
The program includes complimentary onboard Wi-Fi, a no-expiration policy for loyalty points, and the ability for members to share points and status benefits with family and friends. Early members joining the “Founders” tier will receive priority access to new route launches and promotional offers.
Riyadh Air’s London expansion comes as Saudi Arabia continues investing heavily in aviation and tourism infrastructure as part of broader efforts to position the Kingdom as a global transport and business hub under Vision 2030.
