Saudi Arabia-based leasing company AviLease is preparing to place a significant aircraft order with Airbus, potentially to be announced during the Paris Air Show set to begin in mid-June. While the exact number of aircraft remains unclear, sources indicate that the order may include A320neo narrow-body jets as well as the A350F freighter, which is still under development, according to Reuters.
The potential order would follow AviLease’s previous deal with Boeing for 30 737 MAX aircraft, announced during former U.S. President Donald Trump’s visit to Saudi Arabia.
Riyadh Air May Opt for A350-1000 Amid Boeing 777X Delays
Saudi Arabia’s new national airline, Riyadh Air, is also reportedly in talks with Airbus for around 50 A350 aircraft for its long-haul operations. The airline is expected to favor the A350-1000, the largest variant in the A350 family, primarily due to ongoing delays in Boeing’s 777X program. Riyadh Air has already selected the A321neo for its short- and medium-haul routes.
These developments suggest that Airbus may leave the Paris Air Show with major orders from Saudi Arabia, reflecting the country’s rapidly expanding and modernizing aviation sector.
