Air France-KLM and Riyadh Air have initiated a strategic collaboration following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the 81st International Air Transport Association (IATA) Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in New Delhi.
On June 2, 2025, the airlines announced this “significant step” aimed at enhancing global air connectivity for passengers traveling between Riyadh, Paris, and Amsterdam, along with connecting flights to various other destinations.
According to a spokesperson for the airlines, “This strategic alliance is designed to enhance air network connectivity. The two partners will collaborate to maximize future connecting opportunities through Riyadh Air’s hub in Riyadh and Air France-KLM’s hubs at Paris-Charles de Gaulle and Amsterdam-Schiphol.”
The partnership will include interconnected airline networks, the establishment of codesharing agreements, and the mutual recognition of loyalty programs, all aimed at providing customers with a seamless travel experience.
Tony Douglas, the CEO of Riyadh Air, along with Benjamin Smith, CEO of Air France-KLM, noted that this agreement will create new opportunities across Western Europe, North and South America, the Middle East, Asia, and Saudi Arabia.
Douglas emphasized, “We are dedicated to connecting Riyadh with the rest of the world, and this partnership with Air France-KLM, a prominent global airline, will hasten our efforts to achieve this target. Our goal is to provide exceptional experiences while advancing our long-term vision to transform air travel through innovation, operational excellence, and a focus on customer services.”
He further mentioned, “This collaboration will bolster our international network, boost confidence in our growth path, and reaffirm our commitment to support Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification plans under Vision 2030.”
Apart from enhancing their air networks, Riyadh Air and Air France-KLM are enthusiastic about working together to improve customer experiences.
The partners will investigate opportunities for reciprocal benefits regarding loyalty programs, operational assistance, and airport lounge access.
The scope of the partnership also encompasses aircraft maintenance, digital advancements, sustainable initiatives, and freight transport, concentrating on value creation in all areas.
Smith commented, “Saudi Arabia is quickly emerging as a vital aviation market. All three of our brands, Air France, KLM, and Transavia, are now serving this nation, and with this new agreement with Riyadh Air, we intend to further enhance our footprint in the region.”
He added, “We are thrilled to merge our networks and expertise with Riyadh Air to provide our joint customers with more choices and smoother travel experiences. This collaboration complements the existing partnership we have with our alliance partner, SkyTeam, in this area.”
Based on an article from aerotime.aero: https://www.aerotime.aero/articles/air-france-klm-riyadh-air-iata-partnership
