Riyadh Air, the nascent Saudi Arabian airline slated to begin operations in 2025, has forged a preliminary partnership with Singapore Airlines (SIA) through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This agreement, undersigned by Riyadh Air CEO Tony Douglas and his counterpart at Singapore Airlines, Goh Choon Phong, lays the groundwork for a range of cooperative ventures pending regulatory approval.
The collaboration is set to enhance interline connectivity, providing mutual access to each carrier’s flight network. This includes potential codeshare arrangements, reciprocal benefits for frequent flyer program members, joint cargo services, and advancements in customer experience and digital innovation. The ultimate goal is a robust, long-term strategic alliance.
For Riyadh Air, this partnership could significantly expand its reach to Southeast Asia and the South West Pacific, leveraging Singapore’s award-winning Changi Airport as a hub. Conversely, SIA aims to extend its network into the Middle East through Riyadh Air.
“Our strategic partnership with Singapore Airlines unlocks significant benefits for our future guests as it grows our network in partnership with the World’s Best Airline. We see huge potential for strong connectivity in South East Asia and both Australia and New Zealand through the award-winning hub at Singapore Changi Airport, while also providing opportunities for westbound passengers to connect across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Middle East region on Riyadh Air. This relationship is a meaningful and deep cooperation that starts with a wide-ranging codeshare agreement and is expected to include a broad range of areas including digital and technology, loyalty and cargo,” said Tony Douglas.
Goh Choon Phong of Singapore Airlines commented, “This win-win strategic partnership with Riyadh Air will enable us to offer even more options, enhanced connectivity, and greater benefits to our customers. Together, we can facilitate the growth of passenger travel between Saudi Arabia and Singapore, and beyond, via our respective networks, supporting both tourism and business links. The MoU will also allow us to find ways to work together to enhance customer experience and cargo services, and harness digital tools and solutions, potentially bringing greater benefits to both airlines in the future.”
In a related development, Cathay Pacific and Singapore Airlines have also signed a Memorandum of Understanding to jointly tackle sustainability challenges within the airline industry. This agreement is focused on the advocacy for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) in the Asia-Pacific region, aiming to foster its production and widespread adoption. Additionally, the partnership will address the reduction of single-use plastics, waste minimization, and energy efficiency enhancements in ground and cargo operations.
These initiatives underscore a shared commitment to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050 and exemplify the industry’s shift towards more sustainable operational practices.