The Saudi flag carrier, Saudia (Saudi Arabian Airlines), launched its new affiliate low-cost airline “flyadeal”, based at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah, on September 23rd, coinciding with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia National Day anniversary, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) has reported.
Director-General of Saudia, Saleh bin Nasser Al-Jasser, who is also Chairman of the Board of Flyadeal, said: “We developed flyadeal to serve as Saudi Arabia’s new Low Fare Airline and align with the Kingdom’s 2030 vision to diversify the local economy for the benefit of all. Today we mark the beginning of our efforts to serve the growing desire for travel in Saudi Arabia and the region.”
Ghassan bin Abdulrahman al-Shabal, Chairman of Saudi Arabian Airlines Corporation, said: “flyadeal marks an important step in the development of our aviation sector in this great country. The growth of this airline will create opportunities for our youth – new jobs and new skills that will help us build for the future. It is wonderful today to witness flyadeal making history on Saudi National Day.”
Con Korfiatis, the CEO of flyadeal, added: “Today flyadeal takes to the skies for the first time as the new Low Fare Airline for Saudi Arabia. Our seat sales have been phenomenal in the first few days and we’re very excited about the future. By offering attractive low fares and clear choices that help travelers customize their journey, we will provide options that meet the needs of the budget conscious traveller.”
flyadeal will cater to domestic travelers, Hajj and Ummrah pilgrims, and the rising number of tourists to Saudi Arabia, among other groups.
flyadeal will initially operate flights to major domestic destinations, including Riyadh and Dammam, before expanding to regional markets.
He added that flyadeal will also serve Haj and Umrah passengers throughout the region.
Earlier this year, Saudia announced the launch of Al Bayraq, a special VIP service. Al-Jasser then said that Saudia plans to expand its fleet from 119 to 200 aircraft by 2020 and improve services to attract increased passenger numbers under its 2015-2020 plan.
Saudi Arabia is already home to flynas, the nine-year-old low-cost carrier, which operates domestic and international routes.
