Delta Air Lines plans to start serving Saudi Arabia as part of a tie-in with local start-up carrier Riyadh Air.
The strategic partnership is designed to enable both airlines to strengthen connectivity, expand their networks and drive future growth, cording to the US carrier.
The collaboration will open new destinations in Saudi Arabia and beyond, including a future Delta non-stop service between the US and King Khalid International airport in Riyadh.
More: Delta staff receive $1.4bn profit share bonus
Delta reports large corporates leading business travel growth
Delta to start winter London-Orlando service
Riyadh Air is due to begin operations in 2025 with its base of operations in the Saudi Arabian capital.
The agreement, subject to regulatory approvals, includes interline and codeshare connectivity.
A future joint venture to expand the partnership would involve collaboration on network planning and growth in the Middle East.
Delta chief executive Ed Bastian said: “This partnership with Riyadh Air will further Delta’s mission of connecting the world and open an array of new choices, benefits and destinations for our customers traveling to and from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
“Most importantly, Riyadh Air shares Delta’s commitment to providing an elevated customer experience, which is why we’re looking forward to building and expanding this partnership in the months and years ahead.
We appreciate the opportunity to work with the Riyadh Air team and the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia as they transform the transportation economy in the Kingdom.”
The Saudi carrier’s chief executive Tony Douglas added: “We look forward to enjoying a very warm and productive relationship with Delta Air Lines, one of the largest and most successful airlines in the world.
“Riyadh Air and Delta Air Lines share common goals and pursue the highest standards in many areas including guest experience, loyalty, and sustainability, built upon great networks and strong connectivity.”