Key Points:
- Riyadh Air and Delta Air Lines signed a cooperation agreement, making Delta the exclusive US partner.
- The partnership includes mutual flight bookings and areas like maintenance and training
Riyadh Air has entered into a preliminary cooperation agreement with Delta Air Lines Inc. as the Saudi startup seeks to establish international partnerships ahead of its launch next year. This agreement aims to create a marketing partnership allowing both airlines to book customers on each other’s flights, making Delta Riyadh Air’s exclusive partner in the US.
This pact marks Delta’s first collaboration with a Gulf carrier, a significant move noted by Delta CEO Ed Bastian. Bastian highlighted that they were seeking an airline with substantial economic backing and growth potential. The agreement, subject to regulatory approval, will enable both carriers to expand in regions lacking current partnerships.
The partnership is expected to extend into areas such as maintenance, repair, overhaul work, ground handling, and training. Additionally, Delta and Riyadh Air plan to explore a joint venture to coordinate routes and flight schedules. Riyadh Air, owned by the Saudi Public Investment Fund, aims to connect Saudi Arabia to the world, boosting tourism and economic diversification. CEO Tony Douglas emphasized the importance of global partnerships for the startup’s strategy.