Saudia becomes 1st MEA carrier to operate Airbus A321XLR

Riyadh - Mubasher: Saudia received its first Airbus A321XLR, becoming the first airline in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) region to operate the extra-long-range narrow-body aircraft.

The delivery marks a key milestone in the airline’ fleet expansion strategy to improve operational efficiency, enhance passenger experience, and achieve sustainable performance, according to a press release.

The A321XLR has a range of up to 8,700 kilometers and the ability to operate flights lasting up to nine hours, which allows Saudia to serve longer international routes more efficiently using a narrow-body aircraft platform.

The aircraft is also the first in the fleet to feature core elements of ‘The New Saudia Experience.’

Director General of Saudia Group Ibrahim Al Omar commented: “As we continue to grow our fleet, our focus is not only on adding capacity, but on investing in aircraft, products, and capabilities that strengthen Saudia’s competitiveness and support the Kingdom’s aviation ambitions.”

Meanwhile, the airline plans to add 15 Airbus A321XLR aircraft to its fleet by 2027 as part of a broader growth strategy supporting tourism, business travel, pilgrim transport, and major international events linked to Saudi Vision 2030.

Saudia unveiled plans for 12 new aircraft throughout 2026 in line with its fleet expansion strategy to boost operational efficiency and enhance global connectivity.

The expansion comes as Saudi Arabia prepares to host major global events, including the AFC Asian Cup 2027, Expo 2030, and the 2034 FIFA World Cup.

Source: Mubasher Source: {{details.article.source}}