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Asharq Al-Awsat
14 hours ago
- Business
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Saudia Soars to 17th in Global Airline Rankings Amid Bold Transformation
In a remarkable leap forward, Saudia has climbed to 17th place in the 2025 Skytrax ranking of the world's best airlines, marking a significant improvement from its 82nd position in 2016. The achievement comes as the global aviation sector grapples with mounting challenges, including supply chain disruptions, fluctuating demand, and the pressures of infrastructure development. The milestone reflects the success of Saudia's comprehensive transformation strategy aimed at strengthening its global standing and enhancing passenger experience. For the fourth consecutive year, the national carrier has also earned the title of the 'World's Most Improved Airline', underscoring its sustained trajectory of growth and improvement. Skytrax, a leading international airline and airport rating organization, bases its rankings on strict criteria, including both in-flight and ground service quality. Its annual awards are often referred to as the 'Oscars of the aviation industry.' Speaking to Asharq Al-Awsat, Eng. Abdullah Al-Shahrani, General Manager of Communication and official spokesperson for Saudia Group, confirmed that the airline is undergoing a sweeping upgrade of its fleet interiors. A multi-year program to refurbish cabins in both Business and Economy classes is set to begin later this year and conclude by 2027. In line with its push toward digital innovation, the airline has launched a pilot version of an AI-powered virtual assistant. This new platform is designed to streamline travel by integrating services such as bookings, hotel accommodations, ground transport, and entertainment. Digital Transformation Saudia's transformation is not limited to passenger comfort. Al-Shahrani detailed a complete overhaul of the airline's digital infrastructure, including instant booking for delayed or canceled flights, a digital wallet, and a reimagined booking, payment, and refund system. Most notably, refund processing times have been reduced from 40 days to under one minute. Operationally, the airline continues to set high standards. In March 2025, Saudia recorded a 94.07% on-time arrival rate and 94% on-time departure rate, placing it among the top 10 most punctual carriers worldwide. Strategic Growth Amid Global Challenges Despite global and regional headwinds, including the need for large-scale infrastructure upgrades to host future mega-events such as Expo 2030 and the 2034 FIFA World Cup, Saudia is moving forward with bold expansion plans. According to Al-Shahrani, the airline now operates flights to more than 145 international destinations, while positioning Jeddah as a major global air hub. This expansion is supported by the broader Saudia Group, which includes specialized subsidiaries in aircraft maintenance, training, and ground handling services. As the Kingdom's national carrier, Saudia plays a central role in advancing the goals of Saudi Vision 2030. The airline is actively contributing to the National Aviation Strategy, which aims to attract 330 million visitors annually, serve 30 million Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, and connect Saudi Arabia to over 250 global destinations. Additionally, the plan targets 4.5 million tons in annual air cargo capacity by 2030. Looking ahead, Saudia is embarking on one of the largest fleet expansions in its history. By 2032, the airline expects to receive more than 118 new aircraft, including 49 Boeing 787 Dreamliners. Earlier this year, the carrier signed a landmark deal with Airbus to purchase 105 new A320neo aircraft, the largest such order in Saudi aviation history. In April 2025, Saudia further bolstered its future capabilities with a new order for 20 wide-body Airbus A330neo aircraft, of which 10 will be operated by its low-cost subsidiary, Flyadeal.
Arab News
17-06-2025
- Arab News
Saudia Airlines confirms flight from Jeddah diverted after bomb threat has landed safely
RIYADH: Saudia Airlines has confirmed that all passengers and crew are safe after a flight from Jeddah to Jakarta made an emergency landing at another airport in Indonesia, Al Arabiya News Channel reported on Tuesday. The flight was forced to divert after an email threat claimed there was a bomb on board, a Saudia spokesperson said. Abdullah Al-Shahrani, the airline's general manager of corporate communications, told Al Arabiya that in response to the security alert, Flight SV5276 was rerouted to Kualanamu International Airport in Medan as a precaution. The plane landed there safely and all passengers and crew evacuated the aircraft without incident and nobody was hurt, he added. Inspections by authorities confirmed the aircraft was secure and the bomb threat was false. Al-Shahrani said passenger safety remains Saudia's top priority and the airline was working to help passengers continue their journeys. In a statement to Arab News, Saudia confirmed: 'In response to a security alert received in flight, Saudia diverted Flight SV5276, operating from Jeddah to Jakarta, to Kualanamu International Airport in Indonesia as a precautionary measure. 'The aircraft landed safely, and all guests and crew disembarked without incident. Local authorities conducted standard checks shortly after landing, and have cleared the aircraft for continued operation. 'The safety and well-being of our guests and crew remain Saudia's highest priority. Full care and support have been provided and onward travel arrangements are being made."
