Saudia Arabia fleet: flyadeal, flynas, rapid LCC growth

The Saudi Arabian airline market is poised for rapid growth over the next few years as the kingdom relies on aviation and tourism to diversify its economy. LCCs are particularly well positioned as low fares stimulate demand among a youthful population that is eager to travel more.

Saudia Arabia's two LCCs, the privately owned flynas and Saudia subsidiary flyadeal, are planning rapid expansion. Flynas has placed orders for 80 A320neos, enabling the airline to triple its fleet over the next eight years, while flyadeal plans soon to place an order for 30 new generation narrowbody aircraft.

The passenger aircraft fleet in Saudi Arabia has grown by 15% over the past year, driven by rapid expansion at Saudia and flyadeal. The Saudia Group now accounts for approximately 80% of the fleet and 75% of domestic fleet capacity. The group's new two-brand strategy should enable it to maintain strong market share as competition intensifies and the market doubles in size over the next few years.