New Strategic Agreement Between Riyadh Air and Air France-KLM to Boost International Networks
(IN SHORT) Riyadh Air and Air France-KLM have signed a strategic cooperation agreement to improve global connectivity, especially between Riyadh, Paris, Amsterdam, and beyond. The partnership will enhance network connectivity, enrich the guest experience through loyalty rewards and services, and explore joint initiatives in areas such as MRO, digital transformation, sustainability, and cargo. This collaboration will help Riyadh Air accelerate its growth, align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, and reinforce its role as a global aviation leader.
(PRESS RELEASE) NEW DELHI, 2025-Jun-4 — /Travel PR News/ — Saudi Arabia’s new national carrier, Riyadh Air, and Air France-KLM have signed a Strategic Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance global connectivity, particularly between Riyadh, Paris, Amsterdam, and numerous international destinations. The MoU, which was signed at the 2025 IATA Annual General Meeting by Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air, and Benjamin Smith, CEO of Air France-KLM Group, lays the groundwork for a dynamic partnership aimed at unlocking significant travel benefits and opportunities for passengers across Western Europe, North and South America, the Middle East, Asia, and Saudi Arabia.
The collaboration will focus on strengthening network connectivity between both carriers, leveraging Riyadh Air’s hub in Saudi Arabia’s capital, Riyadh, and Air France-KLM’s established hubs at Paris Charles de Gaulle and Amsterdam Schiphol airports. The recent launch of Air France’s Paris-Riyadh route, together with KLM’s existing Amsterdam-Riyadh service, demonstrates their shared commitment to expanding travel options for guests.
“Connecting Riyadh to the world is at the core of our vision, and partnering with Air France-KLM—an aviation leader—will help us accelerate our efforts to deliver exceptional experiences,” said Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air. “This partnership is a key part of our long-term strategy to redefine air travel through innovation, operational excellence, and guest-centric services, while supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 for economic diversification.”
Beyond improving route connectivity, the collaboration will enhance the guest experience by exploring opportunities such as reciprocal loyalty program rewards, operational support, and lounge access for passengers traveling with both airlines. This cooperation also spans across several operational areas, including Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO), digital transformation, sustainability initiatives, and cargo services, ensuring a comprehensive approach to delivering long-term value.
Benjamin Smith, CEO of Air France-KLM, commented, “Saudi Arabia is an increasingly important market for aviation. With our three brands—Air France, KLM, and Transavia—serving the country, this agreement with Riyadh Air will further strengthen our presence in the region. Combining our networks and expertise will offer our mutual customers more choice and convenience, complementing our existing partnerships, including with SkyTeam.”
As Riyadh Air continues its ambitious journey to become a leading global carrier, this partnership with Air France-KLM underlines the airline’s commitment to operational excellence and delivering an unparalleled guest experience.
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SOURCE: KLM
