Saudia, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, has inaugurated its first direct scheduled flight to Moscow, the capital of the Russian Federation, in collaboration with the Saudi Tourism Authority and the Air Connectivity Programme.
Saudia has
scheduled three weekly flights from Riyadh to Moscow, expanding its global
network that now connects guests to more than 100 destinations across four
continents, reported SPA.
To mark the occasion, a ceremony was held at Catrion Lounge in King Khalid
International Airport in Riyadh, attended by Saudia Group Director General
Ibrahim Al-Omar, Russian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Sergey Kozlov, and
representatives from the Saudi Tourism Authority, aviation, tourism, and media
sectors.
Al-Omar said: “Launching direct flights between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and
the Russian Federation marks a significant step in strengthening bilateral
relations across economic and developmental fields, while also opening new
opportunities for cultural exchange between our two nations. This milestone
directly supports the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, particularly those
related to the aviation sector, by contributing to connecting the Kingdom with
more than 250 international destinations.”
He added: “Through this new route, Saudia continues to advance one of the core
pillars of its strategy by bringing the world to the Kingdom. It will not only
meet the growing demand for travel to the Kingdom’s diverse events and
activities but also facilitate access for pilgrims and international guests
transiting across our domestic and global network. Our expansion strategy is
reinforced by a clear fleet growth plan and a comprehensive programme to
elevate the travel experience.”
Kozlov stated: “Saudia’s direct flights between Riyadh and Moscow reflect the
shared commitment of both nations to further strengthen their bilateral ties.
The new route opens greater travel opportunities for citizens of both countries
and helps boost tourism and cultural exchange between the Kingdom of Saudi
Arabia and the Russian Federation”.
The inauguration celebration included a guest send-off by a team representing
all operational sectors. The inaugural flight, SV0283, departed aboard a Boeing
787-10, renowned for its efficiency and advanced guest experience.
Upon arrival, Sheremetyevo International Airport welcomed the inaugural flight
with the traditional water salute, where Saudi Ambassador to Russia Sami
Alsadhan led the welcoming reception.
Celebrations will
also take place for the first departing flight, SV0282, from Moscow to Riyadh.