Airlines

Saudi Arabia to order 40 A350s for new national airline RIA

To start a new airline and compete with Gulf heavyweight carriers, Saudi Arabia order 40 A350s.

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Saudi Arabia is in advanced talks with Airbus to purchase over 40 A350 aircraft as part of a larger, multi-billion dollar effort to start a new airline and compete with Gulf heavyweight carriers.

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People familiar with the situation informed Reuters on October 23, 2022, that the new aircraft would eventually join the fleet of the nation’s forthcoming national airline, Riyadh-based RIA. The kingdom’s Public Investment Fund might make the official announcement of the acquisition, which is expected to be valued at around $12 billion at list prices, during the Future Investment Initiative summit, which is slated to take place between October 25 and October 27, 2022.

A $100 billion investment in the aviation industry over the next eight years, the majority of which would go toward developing a new national carrier operating international routes, is one of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals. The nation hopes to start operations with the new airline in the fourth quarter of 2022 and expects to serve at least 30 million travellers annually, up from the existing 4 million.

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The PIF-backed airline will face competition from other significant regional carriers including Etihad Airways, Qatar Airways, and Emirates. Huge funding is being provided to the PIF’s aviation division in order to establish an ecosystem of cargo and passenger airlines and airports. The PIF is purchasing and leasing options for a fleet that might eventually contain 200 aircraft, the source said.

Arabian Business reported that the nation will invest $30 billion in the new airline, which will focus on more than 150 routes in 80 different nations.

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Airlines

British Airways Unveils Its Brand-New First Class Cabin for the Airbus A380

British Airways has introduced its brand-new First Class seat, blending sleek design with expert British craftsmanship. Reflecting modern British luxury travel, this new cabin is part of the airline’s Airbus A380 retrofit plans, set to take flight in mid-2026.

The updated First Class cabin has been crafted to feel like a modern luxury hotel in the sky, complete with cozy touches and thoughtful British details.

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Designed by top experts from across Great Britain and Ireland—including London, Glasgow, West Yorkshire, Kilkeel, and Dublin—the seat reflects the best of British design and quality.

Features and Comforts
The new First Class seat is ultra-wide at 36.5 inches, with a bed length of 79 inches for ultimate comfort. It includes:

A multi-purpose ottoman and stowable table.
A 32-inch 4K TV screen.
Adjustable mood lighting with modes like “relax,” “dine,” and “cinema.”
A cocooned 60-inch curved wall for privacy while maintaining a spacious feel.

Passengers traveling together can enjoy a shared experience with a sliding divider that creates a lounge-like space. The stowable tables also allow for “buddy dining,” where two people can dine together.

The cabin’s flowing curves, inspired by the iconic Concorde wings, create a welcoming and stylish environment. Additionally, passengers can now wheel their luggage directly into their personal storage space, making settling in easier.

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British Airways carefully considered customer feedback when designing this cabin. The seat includes practical storage and features like a fully rectangular bed for home-like comfort. Every detail, from usability to elegance, has been designed to enhance the travel experience.

British Airways is proud to be the only UK-based European airline offering a First Class product across the Atlantic. british airways premium economy and First Class travelers enjoy exclusive perks such as stylish seats, access to luxury lounges, fast-track security, and the First Wing at Heathrow. The airline ensures a premium experience from booking to landing.

This cabin upgrade is part of British Airways’ £7 billion investment in improving customer experiences. The airline has already introduced over 120 initiatives, including new short-haul seats, free onboard Wi-Fi messaging, and refreshed lounges worldwide.