"In a major turnaround from years of criticizing government-subsidized Gulf carriers, Delta Air Lines is further deepening its ties with a new, state-run airline. On Monday, Delta announced a new nonstop route between Atlanta and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, set to begin in October 2026. The 7,000-mile flight - the first-ever by a US airline - will be operated with Delta's premium-heavy Airbus A350-900 featuring business class, premium economy, and coach."
"The news comes a year after Delta announced its strategic partnership with Saudi Arabia's second flag carrier, Riyadh Air, as part of the Gulf nation's "Vision 2030" project. The state-owned airline aims to boost business and tourism in the region and is backed by a nearly $1 trillion sovereign wealth fund. Delta's new service coincides with Riyadh Air's soft debut on Sunday, flying its sole Boeing 787 from Riyadh to London with employees and "select guests" onboard."
Delta Air Lines will launch a nonstop Atlanta–Riyadh route in October 2026, covering roughly 7,000 miles. The service will be flown on Airbus A350-900 aircraft configured with business class, premium economy, and coach. The route is part of a strategic partnership with state-owned Riyadh Air, which debuted a Boeing 787 flight from Riyadh to London and plans to serve more than 100 destinations by 2030. Riyadh Air is backed by a nearly $1 trillion sovereign wealth fund. Delta previously criticized Gulf carriers for state subsidies but reversed course to pursue market opportunities. American traveler perceptions about Saudi Arabia remain a hurdle.
Read at Business Insider
Unable to calculate read time
Collection
[
|
...
]