The Air Arabia-led consortium, Saudi Arabia’s new national carrier, has commenced operations from King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, launching its inaugural flight to Riyadh and marking the start of services from the Eastern Province.

A ceremony was held at King Fahd International Airport before the inaugural flight, attended by officials, partners, guests and media representatives. A second welcome ceremony took place at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh following the flight’s arrival.

Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer of Air Arabia, said: “This step marks an important milestone as the new national budget carrier takes off to the skies for the first time from King Fahd International Airport. The start of operations reflects our commitment to supporting the continued development of the Kingdom’s aviation sector while expanding affordable and reliable air connectivity from the Eastern Province.”

He added: “We are pleased to begin our journey with three key domestic routes and look forward to progressively expanding our network and services. We thank the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), Dammam Airports Company and all our partners for their continued support, and we look forward to welcoming our customers on board.”

Mohammed Al-Hassany, Chief Executive Officer of Dammam Airports, said: “The launch of the inaugural flight of the Air Arabia-led consortium, which has chosen King Fahd International Airport as the base for its operations, marks an important step in strengthening air connectivity for the Eastern Province and expanding travel options for passengers. It also reflects the airport’s strong position and operational capabilities, while reinforcing its role as an air gateway connecting the Eastern Province with the world.”

Al-Hassany added: “We are proud to welcome the launch of the carrier’s operations from King Fahd International Airport. We will continue working closely with our partners to grow air traffic, enhance the travel experience, and diversify travel options and destinations for passengers. This supports the objectives of the Aviation Program under the National Transport and Logistics Strategy and strengthens the Eastern Province’s position on the regional and international air transport map.”

The carrier currently operates two daily flights from Dammam to Riyadh and Jeddah, as well as one daily flight to Medinah.

GACA announced in July 2025 that the Air Arabia-led consortium, comprising Air Arabia Group, Nesma Group and Kun Holding, had won the competition to establish the new carrier. The airline received its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from GACA last week after completing the required technical and regulatory procedures.

The carrier follows Air Arabia’s low-cost business model and operates Airbus A320 aircraft configured with 174 seats in a single-class cabin. -TradeArabia News Service