Delta, Riyadh Air Ink Deal For Expansion

Delta Air Lines has signed a strategic cooperation memorandum of understanding with Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s new full-service global carrier. The deal aims to introduce a range of benefits for customers traveling between North America, Saudi Arabia and destinations beyond.

The agreement was signed at Delta’s world headquarters in Atlanta and serves as the foundation for a partnership that will enable both airlines to strengthen connectivity, expand their networks and drive future growth. The agreement also envisions a long-term relationship, subject to regulatory approvals, that includes interline and codeshare connectivity, as well as a partnership encompassing loyalty, customer experience, digital transformation and broader aviation services such as maintenance, repair and overhaul services, ground handling and training.

In the future, the airlines intend to explore an immunized joint venture to expand the partnership and allow collaboration on network planning and growth in the region. Both airlines are committed to driving the best sustainability practices throughout their operations.

The partnership will open new destinations in Saudi Arabia and beyond for Delta customers, including future nonstop service on Delta between the U.S. and King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. It will offer Delta’s North American network for Riyadh Air customers, offering access to hundreds of destinations in the US, and beyond.

Travel is central to Saudi Arabia’s long-term economic growth plan, with an $800 billion investment in the tourism sector that includes development of luxury resorts on the Red Sea, the opening of the Diriyah and AlUla historical site to visitors, and the hosting of the 2030 Riyadh Expo.

Riyadh Air is expected to begin operations in 2025. It will serve customers traveling to and from the Middle East, with its base of operations in the capital of Saudi Arabia.

For more information, visit www.delta.com and www.riyadhair.com.

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