News DeskFarnborough, United Kingdom – Saudi Arabia’s leading low-cost carrier, flynas, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus for the acquisition of 75 A320neo family aircraft and 15 A330-900 aircraft. This strategic deal, formalized during the Farnborough International Airshow, will significantly enhance the airline’s capacity, range, and fleet capabilities.
The signing ceremony saw the presence of several high-profile figures, including H.E. Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) of Saudi Arabia, Ayed Al Jeaid, Chairman of the Board of NAS Holding, Bandar Almohanna, CEO and Managing Director of flynas, and Christian Scherer, Airbus Chief Executive Officer, Commercial Aircraft.
The newly acquired aircraft will join flynas’s all-Airbus fleet, serving international, domestic, and regional routes. Notably, the A330-900 aircraft will feature a two-class configuration, accommodating up to 400 passengers. This addition will bolster flynas’s long-haul capabilities, aligning with the airline’s ambitious growth plans and supporting Saudi Arabia’s pilgrim program.
“We are excited to further strengthen our long-standing partnership with Airbus,” said Bandar Almohanna, CEO and Managing Director of flynas. “The A320neo Family provides exceptional operational performance and environmental benefits, allowing us to offer unique, low-cost travel experiences. Additionally, the A330neo will enhance our long-haul capabilities with its advanced technology and efficiency while supporting our growth plans and Saudi Arabia’s pilgrim program.”
Airbus CEO, Christian Scherer, highlighted the significance of the partnership, stating, “We are delighted to expand our partnership with flynas through this significant milestone for both A320neo and A330-900 aircraft. The A330neo will allow flynas to further grow into widebody markets by building on the A320, benefiting from Airbus’ unique commonality. Both aircraft types offer flynas the perfect versatility and economics to expand into new markets while offering their passengers the latest cabin experience and comfort. We look forward to continuing our successful collaboration with flynas as they embark on this exciting new chapter.”
The addition of the A330-900 aircraft is expected to yield significant operational efficiency gains for flynas, combining increased capacity and range with unrivalled seat costs. The A330neo, powered by the latest-generation Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, promises a 25% reduction in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions compared to previous generation aircraft. With a non-stop range of 8,150 nautical miles (15,094 km), the A330neo offers ultimate passenger comfort, featuring more space, a new lighting system, the latest in-flight entertainment systems, and full connectivity throughout the cabin.
Furthermore, the A330 family’s capability to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) aligns with Airbus’s goal to have its aircraft 100% SAF capable by 2030, underscoring the environmental benefits of this acquisition.
This agreement marks a pivotal step in flynas’s expansion strategy, positioning the airline to compete effectively in the growing regional market while offering passengers enhanced travel experiences.
