DELHI- Riyadh Air (RX), the new national airline of Saudi Arabia, has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Air France-KLM (AF/KL) to boost global connectivity.
This agreement centers on travel between Riyadh (RUH), Paris (CDG), Amsterdam (AMS), and major international destinations.
The MoU, signed during the 2025 IATA Annual General Meeting, aims to establish wide-ranging cooperation, including codeshare agreements, network expansion, and enhanced guest experience.
Riyadh Air and Air France KLM Partnership
The partnership between Riyadh Air and Air France KLM marks a pivotal moment for international aviation, particularly in connecting Europe and the Middle East.
Riyadh Air will leverage its growing presence and strategic location at King Khalid International Airport (RUH), while Air France and KLM will utilize their major hubs at Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) and Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS), respectively.
This cooperation is designed to increase flight options for passengers traveling between Saudi Arabia and Western Europe, with future plans to expand service coverage into North and South America, Asia, and the Middle East.
The recent launch of Air France’s Paris–Riyadh service and the ongoing KLM Amsterdam–Riyadh route reflect the growing demand and shared commitment of both carriers.
The collaboration is subject to regulatory approvals and will focus on mutual route development, aligning schedules, and offering codeshare opportunities that simplify booking and transfer processes for travelers.
This integrated network strategy is expected to improve connectivity and reduce layover times, enhancing the overall travel experience.
Enhancing Passenger Experience
The agreement goes beyond route connectivity. Riyadh Air and Air France-KLM plan to develop reciprocal loyalty benefits, allowing passengers to earn and redeem points across both carriers’ frequent flyer programs.
This integration is aimed at attracting premium customers and building long-term customer retention.
Guests will also benefit from coordinated services, including lounge access, customer service support, and streamlined transfer experiences.
The combined efforts of both carriers will create a more seamless and rewarding journey for travelers flying across their networks.
In addition to passenger services, the MoU covers several operational and strategic sectors.
Riyadh Air and Air France-KLM will jointly explore Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) capabilities, sustainability initiatives, cargo operations, and digital innovation.
This broad-based cooperation is designed to increase efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and support Riyadh Air’s vision of being a technologically advanced and environmentally responsible airline.
It also complements Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals, which include making Riyadh a global aviation hub and supporting economic diversification.
Future Outlook
Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air, emphasized the transformative impact of the partnership, highlighting its role in accelerating the airline’s international expansion and enhancing guest experience through innovation and excellence.
Benjamin Smith, CEO of Air France-KLM Group, described the agreement as a timely opportunity to deepen the group’s presence in Saudi Arabia.
With Air France, KLM, and Transavia already operating in the Kingdom, this cooperation further expands their influence in the Gulf region.
As Riyadh Air prepares for its commercial launch, this strategic alliance represents a significant step toward becoming a key player in the global aviation landscape.
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