Riyadh Air commences operations in Pakistan with inaugural flight to Islamabad

Business Recorder reported that Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia's new national carrier, has begun flying to Pakistan, with its inaugural flight RX-660 touching down in Islamabad on Friday evening. Citing a statement from the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA), the report said the aircraft carried 69 passengers and was welcomed with a water salute while taxiing to the terminal. The arrival marks the airline's first visit to Pakistan.

The carrier anticipates seven weekly services linking Riyadh and Islamabad, adding a direct air route between the two countries. A ceremony at the airport was attended by Saudi Ambassador Nawaf Bin Said Al-Malki, who was chief guest, and PAA Director General Air Vice Marshal Zeeshan Saeed. After the event, the flight left Islamabad at 09:56 p.m. carrying 272 passengers.

Speaking at the ceremony, the ambassador stressed how the inaugural service would reinforce ties and flight links between the two nations. PAA officials stressed the link's role in boosting connectivity, easing passenger movement and encouraging aviation cooperation, while Riyadh Air's senior management described future expansion ideas and room for growth in Pakistan.