"Riyadh Air signs Rolls-Royce deal to power A350-1000 fleet"

Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s new national airline, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Rolls-Royce to acquire 100 Trent XWB-97 engines for its future fleet of 50 Airbus A350-1000 aircraft. The agreement was announced during the 55th Paris Air Show at Le Bourget and marks a major milestone in the airline’s global expansion strategy. The Trent XWB-97, developed specifically for the Airbus A350-1000, is recognised as the most efficient large aircraft engine in service. It delivers up to 97,000 pounds of thrust and is expected to significantly boost Riyadh Air’s long-haul capabilities. With operations set to begin later this year, Riyadh Air plans to establish a global network connecting the Saudi capital to more than 100 destinations by 2030. The airline ultimately aims to operate 182 aircraft across three models. Equipped with the Trent XWB-97 engines, the A350-1000s will enable Riyadh Air to link Riyadh to major global cities, reinforcing its position as a key international aviation hub among G20 nations. A Memorandum of Understanding was also signed for Rolls-Royce’s comprehensive TotalCare service, which will cover the health and maintenance of the engines. “This deal demonstrates our commitment to operational excellence and cutting-edge technology,” the airline said in a statement. “It brings us closer to redefining air travel through an elevated, seamless passenger experience.” In a separate move to enhance digital capabilities, Riyadh Air announced a partnership with travel technology firm Ink Innovation. The collaboration will implement a next-generation delivery management system aligned with the IATA Modern Airline Retailing (MAR) model, giving travelers full control over their journeys and real-time service upgrades. With strategic global partnerships and a focus on advanced aviation technologies, Riyadh Air is positioning itself as a digitally native airline. Its combined efforts with Rolls-Royce and Ink Innovation highlight a forward-thinking approach to air travel aimed at convenience, sustainability, and global connectivity.

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