Riyadh Air is still to commence operations, but the airline’s management is in the thick of preparations. So much is going on regarding the new Saudi airline to set solid bases to what at least promises to be a massive operation. The latest news regarding Riyadh Air is a strategically important agreement MoU with Delta Air Lines. Let’s dig deeper and find out what it’s all about.
Delta to Become Riyadh Air Exclusive Partner in North America
The main and key point of the memorandum of understanding signed in Atlanta, at Delta’s HQ, is the fact that Delta will become Riyadh Air’s exclusive partner in North America. The agreement goes two ways with Riyadh Air becoming Delta’s exclusive partner in Saudi Arabia and the wider middle east region.
That means that, once the Saudi carrier commences operations, synergies will be strong between the respective networks. In simpler terms, one of the first destinations the new Saudi carrier will launch in the US will probably be Atlanta.
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,
Delta CEO Ed Bastian
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,
Riyadh Air CEO Tony Douglas
What Does the Agreement Translate to Operationally?
The two airlines will have a strong synergy in many aspects of their operations. If approved by regulators, a codeshare agreement will come to be. The airlines will apply their own flight number on a selection of flight across their networks. Also, there is mention of an interline agreement to make seamless travel possible when switching from one carrier to the other on a single booking.
Finally, some sort of loyalty agreement is in the works. Although Riyadh Air still hasn’t announced a frequent flyer program, once it does, it will be aligned with Delta SkyMiles. The most likely agreement is one that allows to accrue miles on both programs regardless of the airline you’re flying on. But who knows, maybe it’ll be an even stronger integration. We’ll have to wait and see as Riyadh Air’s operations launch draw closer.
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