A new link between Manchester and Riyadh launched on September 17th, with Riyadh Air adding the north’s hub airport as its second UK destination
Saudi Arabia’s new digital-led airline has expanded its roster of European destinations, with Manchester becoming its fourth, joining London and Madrid, as well as a seasonal flight to Malaga.
The service will both open up connections to Saudi Arabia to travellers in the North, and also give them access via onward connections to destinations across Africa and Asia.
Chris Woodroofe, Managing Director of Manchester Airport, said, “What makes this even more special is that an ambitious airline like Riyadh Air has selected Manchester as one of its first European destinations – showing the appeal of Manchester and the North as a destination, but also indicating the strength of demand for long-haul travel from the North.
“That is something we now have more capacity to meet than ever before, thanks to our decade-long, £1.5 billion transformation of Terminal 2.”
The Manchester – Riyadh service will run three times a week; on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, using a Boeing 787-9.
Tony Douglas, CEO at Riyadh Air, said, “Manchester is a key gateway from where our guests can fly to cities in the Middle East and Asia in addition to being a popular cultural destination for visitors from across our growing network.
“We look forward to welcoming guests to fly on our modern, premium aircraft and experiencing genuine Saudi hospitality, known locally as Hafawa.”
The addition marks Manchester’s second route to Saudi Arabia, with Saudi also operating flights to Jeddah.
