Riyadh Air confirms start of Heathrow flights 

Saudi Arabia start-up Riyadh Air is to start serving Heathrow this month.

Daily flights from the Saudi capital have been scheduled from October 26 using recently awarded slots at the London hub.

But the London launch flights will initially only be on sale to select groups and Riyadh Air employees.

The service, using a leased Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner called Jamila, are being operated to ensure operational readiness ahead of receiving the first aircraft deliveries from Boeing.

The aircraft has been used since January for pilot and crew training ahead of the first two deliveries this year from an original order of 72 Dreamliners. 

A statement said: “Through a thorough assessment programme of these initial launch flights on Jamila, the airline is building operational strength for a smooth, reliable, and world-class premium travel experience.”

Flights will depart Riyadh at 3.15am with an early morning arrival time into Heathrow at 7.30am, the return flights depart London at 9.30am, arriving in Riyadh at 7.15pm (all times local).

Further new routes, including to Dubai, are set to be announced in the coming weeks for winter 2025 and summer 2026, according to the airline.

Chief executive Tony Douglas said: ”This isn’t just a launch; it’s a tangible realisation of a vision to connect Saudi Arabia to the world, a core pillar of Saudi Vision 2030. 

"Our commitment to begin operations in 2025 is being fulfilled. This rigorous flight programme on Jamila allows us to fine-tune every detail, ensuring a seamless, reliable, and world-class experience. 

"This carefully sequenced approach is our pathway to perfect, and we are now incredibly close to full operations with further destinations to be announced in the coming weeks as our new aircraft are delivered."