Boeing Co. is looking to support the growth of the aviation sector in Saudi Arabia over the coming years, according to Omar Arekat, vice president of Boeing's Commercial Sales and Marketing for Middle East and Africa.
Arekat voiced Boeing’s admiration for Saudi Arabia’s “Vision 2030,” a national transformation plan which also aims to develop the kingdom into a leading tourism and travel destination.
Deals concluded with Saudi airlines, such as Saudia and Riyadh Air, are part of a larger strategic plan to transform the Kingdom into a global aviation hub, revealed Arekat.
The plan aligns with the Kingdom’s goal of providing premium air services to 330 million passengers and attracting 100 million visitors annually by 2030, he explained.
Saudi carriers have recently revealed a plan to buy up to 121 Boeing 787 Dreamliners.
Such a decision reflects the continuation of a partnership that has lasted for almost eight decades and has been instrumental in driving innovation and sustainable development in the Saudi aviation industry.
Additionally, this purchase is expected to strengthen the capacity to provide secure and sustainable commercial air transportation for long-term agreements, affirmed Arekat.
Speaking to Asharq Al-Awsat, Arekat clarified that the 787 Dreamliner family, comprising high-efficiency aircraft, offers numerous comfort benefits to passengers.
Looking to meet high demand from airlines, Boeing developed the 787 aircraft family with the objective of providing unparalleled efficiency levels, enabling airlines to generate profits by launching new flights and transporting passengers directly to their final destinations.
The 787 aircraft have a competitive edge within their category, resulting in fuel savings and emissions reductions of 20-25%.
Arekat confirmed that the Middle East is one of Boeing's most significant markets in commercial, defense, and related service fields.
Boeing’s commitment to support the region’s immense growth potential in the aviation industry, including aircraft, infrastructure development, services, and financing, is evident in the company's strategy, he added.
