Saudia receives first Airbus A321XLR in MEA

Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia) has received its first long-range narrow-body Airbus A321XLR aircraft. This is the first time this model joins the Saudi fleet and the first in the Middle East and Africa region.

The A321XLR features a narrow-body design with a long range of up to 8,700 kilometers and flight durations of up to 9 hours per trip and includes 24 business-class suites offering privacy and luxury. This option is in addition to 120 economy-class seats equipped with several passenger comfort features, including 13-inch entertainment screens, charging ports, and ergonomically designed seats using the latest technologies, the company stated in a statement.

Moreover, an upgraded cabin interior with high-speed internet service is included.

Saudia is scheduled to receive a total of 15 A321XLR aircraft by 2027. These aircrafts are expected to support Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives in tourism, entertainment, sports, and serving pilgrims, particularly during major upcoming events hosted in the Kingdom, including the AFC Asian Cup 2027, Expo 2030, and the FIFA World Cup 2034.

The move extends the recent agreement signed by Saudia with Airbus to purchase 105 confirmed aircraft. Through this deal, the group aims to contribute to the localization of the aviation sector, strengthen national supply chains, maximize economic impact, and support local goods and services through major cumulative purchases and investments, the airline stated.

Airbus continues to cooperate with Saudi suppliers to qualify them for integration into global aviation supply chains, helping to enhance local content and create investment opportunities with sustainable economic impact, the statement added.