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Riyadh Air Launches Riyadh Cargo, Marking Saudi Arabia’s Entry into Global Air Freight

Prime Highlights:

  • Riyadh Air has officially launched its cargo brand, Riyadh Cargo, entering the global air freight market.
  • The airline uses modern tracking systems and smart containers to ensure fast, reliable, and efficient cargo operations.

Key Facts:

  • Riyadh Air has 182 aircraft on order and plans to serve over 100 destinations by 2030.
  • Ground handling is managed by SATS Saudi Arabia at airports in Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam, supporting smooth operations.

Background:

Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia’s new airline, has launched its cargo service, Riyadh Cargo. The move supports the Kingdom’s plans to strengthen its aviation and logistics sector.

The airline has started carrying cargo in the lower decks of its wide-body passenger aircraft, allowing goods to be transported on regular flights. With more than 120 aircraft on order, Riyadh Air plans to develop a growing cargo network based at King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh.

The introduction of Riyadh Cargo follows a phased operational strategy, which includes trial flights under the airline’s “Road to Takeoff” program. These initial operations connected Riyadh with London Heathrow, where the cargo unit has already handled substantial volumes of goods. Shipments on the route have included textiles, fresh flowers, seafood, tea, and coffee, highlighting the airline’s ability to manage time-sensitive, perishable, and high-value cargo.

Pravin Singh, global head of cargo at Riyadh Air, said the launch reflects a focus on reliability and long-term growth. He noted that starting cargo operations within a live network allows the airline to refine processes while delivering services to customers from the outset. According to Singh, Riyadh Cargo is designed to grow alongside the airline’s passenger network and support Saudi Arabia’s broader logistics ambitions.

Digital systems are a key part of Riyadh Cargo’s operations. The airline has partnered with CHAMPS to use the CargoSpot Neo system, which gives central control over cargo and terminal operations with real-time updates.

Riyadh Cargo uses smart containers with Unilode to track shipments in real time and manage inventory. Ground handling is handled by SATS Saudi Arabia at Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam airports.