Riyadh Air signs partnership MoU with Air France - KLM

Riyadh Air, the Saudi Arabian new national carrier, is continuing to step up its partnerships ahead of its planned entry into service.

Riyadh Air's Tony Douglas (right) at the partnership MoU signing in Delhi with Air France a- KLM

On the sidelines of the IATA AGM, currently underway in Delhi, India, the Saudi airline signed a strategic cooperation memorandum of understanding with the Air France-KLM group marking a significant step forward in global connectivity for guests traveling between Riyadh, Paris, Amsterdam, and destinations far beyond.

The MoU, signed at the 2025 IATA Annual General Meeting by Tony Douglas CEO Riyadh Air and Benjamin Smith CEO of Air France-KLM Group, sets the foundation for a dynamic partnership.

Subject to regulatory approvals, the collaboration aims to gradually introduce a wide range of benefits for guests and to unlock new opportunities across Western Europe, North and South America, the Middle East, Asia, and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

A statement from both companies said the strategic partnership will focus on strengthening network connectivity, with both partners working together to maximize future opportunities through Riyadh Air’s hub in the capital of Saudi Arabia and Air France-KLM’s Paris-Charles de Gaulle and Amsterdam-Schiphol airport hubs. The recent launch of Air France’s Paris Charles de Gaulle–Riyadh service, alongside KLM’s established Amsterdam–Riyadh operations, reflects the shared commitment to expanding travel options for guests.

The partners are believed to be exploring opportunities for reciprocal loyalty program rewards, operational support, and lounge access. The partnership also extends to areas such as Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO), digital transformation, sustainability, and cargo services—ensuring a comprehensive approach to delivering value.

CEO of Riyadh Air, Tony Douglas, said: “This partnership not only strengthens our international network but also reinforces confidence in our growth trajectory and our role in supporting Saudi Arabia’s broader economic diversification goals under Vision 2030.”