Flyadeal plans major fleet expansion to boost international reach and passenger growth

Saudi low-cost carrier flyadeal is preparing for a significant expansion, aiming to grow its capacity by 20 to 25 percent next year, CEO Steven Greenway told Al-Eqtisadiah. The airline plans to expand its fleet to 98 aircraft, marking what Greenway described as an “operational leap” that will reshape its domestic and international operations.

The expansion is set to begin in 2027, with one new aircraft scheduled for delivery each month until 2029. Flyadeal carried 11 million passengers this year, and Greenway projects 12 to 13 million passengers next year as the new aircraft join the fleet. December alone saw a 35 percent year-on-year increase in capacity.

A key feature of the expansion is the introduction of wide-body A330neo aircraft for the first time. With a capacity of 420 passengers, these planes will enable flyadeal to connect Saudi airports with long-haul routes across Western Europe and Southeast Asia. The move reflects a shift toward a more balanced domestic and international route network, departing from the current model of 80 percent domestic and 20 percent international flights. Greenway said the new operational structure supports Saudi Arabia’s growing tourism sector and enhances the Kingdom’s global connectivity.

By the end of 2025, flyadeal will operate 44 aircraft, up from 36 at the end of last year, with one more delivery expected next week. Next year, the airline plans to add four new aircraft, bringing the fleet to 48, including traditional A320s, fuel-efficient A320neos, and A321s with 240 seats.

The airline’s expansion coincides with strong growth in the Saudi aviation market. Last year, passenger numbers surpassed 128 million, a 15 percent increase from 2024. The General Authority of Civil Aviation reported over 905,000 flights, up 11 percent, while air connectivity expanded 16 percent to more than 170 destinations worldwide. Air cargo also saw a 34 percent increase, reaching 1.2 million tonnes. Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam, and Madinah airports accounted for 82 percent of total air traffic.

Flyadeal’s plans to introduce wide-body aircraft and restructure its operations reflect the Kingdom’s broader goals to enhance tourism and position Saudi Arabia as a global travel hub. The carrier’s expansion aims to meet growing passenger demand, improve international reach, and solidify its presence in the regional aviation market.