AviLease, the Saudi-based global aircraft leasing company, has signed its first-ever aircraft lease with Riyadh Air, the Kingdom’s newly established national airline. The agreement covers one Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner and marks AviLease as the first lessor to collaborate with Riyadh Air. Delivery of the aircraft is scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2025, a significant milestone as the carrier approaches its commercial debut.
The Boeing 787-9 represents one of the most advanced and fuel-efficient widebody aircraft in global aviation. This lease underscores AviLease’s strategic focus on next-generation aircraft and highlights its role in supporting Riyadh Air’s commitment to building a technologically advanced, environmentally conscious fleet that aligns with Saudi Arabia’s vision for a world-class aviation ecosystem.
Edward O’Byrne, CEO of AviLease, added: “This agreement is an important milestone for AviLease. We are continuing to build our investment-grade leasing platform to compete at the top of the industry, globally. Yet, we are also very clear on our role in helping build-up the Saudi aviation ecosystem. As such, I am really glad that we can witness the launch of such a key new carrier for the Kingdom. Becoming Riyadh Air’s first leasing partner highlights the trust placed in AviLease and reinforces our position as a strategic enabler of the Kingdom’s aviation ambitions.”
Adam Boukadida, CFO at Riyadh Air, said: “We are pleased to complete our first aircraft lease with AviLease as we continue building a young, fuel-efficient fleet ahead of our commercial launch. The Boeing 787 is a highly capable aircraft that will play an important role in delivering a world-class travel experience for our future guests. This agreement marks an important step in establishing Riyadh Air as a leading global airline.”
This milestone agreement contributes to the development of Saudi Arabia’s aviation sector, in line with the national Saudi Aviation Strategy and Vision 2030 objectives to strengthen connectivity, capacity, and competitiveness.
AviLease continues to expand its presence worldwide by prioritising high-performance, in-demand aircraft like the Boeing 787 and by fostering strategic partnerships with both regional and international airlines. As of Q3 2025, the company’s portfolio includes 192 owned and managed aircraft leased to 48 airlines operating across 29 countries.
By combining Riyadh Air’s bold global aspirations with AviLease’s expertise in aircraft leasing, the partnership sets a new benchmark for Saudi aviation. It reinforces the Kingdom’s ambition to become a global leader in air transport, innovation, and sustainable growth.
