Red Sea International, the developer of the most ambitious renewable tourism projects in the world – the Red Sea and Amala destinations – announced that it has signed a memorandum of understanding with Saudi Arabian Airlines “Saudi Airlines” and “DAA International”, the operating company of ” Red Sea International Airport, making Saudi Airlines the first airline to operate its flights at Red Sea International Airport (RSI).
The “Red Sea International Airport” project is on track to be inaugurated this year alongside the first 3 resorts in the “Red Sea” destination. The airport will initially open for domestic flights to and from Riyadh, and later to and from Jeddah, before expanding to receive international flights starting. From 2024, according to a press release.
John Pagano, CEO of Red Sea International, said: “In 2016, His Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman laid out Saudi Vision 2030, a vision for a prosperous nation, and he knew that it was a global destination for people from all over the world to experience the best of Saudi culture and learn about… Local hospitality and charming nature.
Pagano added: “The landing of the first commercial flight at the Red Sea International Airport will not only be a source of pride for the Red Sea International Airport, but it will also be a milestone for Saudi Arabia in its endeavor to make this vision a reality, and that is why it was appropriate for the Saudi Airlines to be… “The Kingdom’s national carrier is the first to operate its flights from our destination.”
Under this agreement, Saudi Airlines will begin operating regular flights to and from the Red Sea International Airport. This agreement also provides a framework for the three parties to conduct joint research on the use of low-carbon aviation fuel and sustainable aviation fuel at the Red Sea International Airport. The use of “electric” vertical take-off and landing aircraft will be evaluated to reduce emissions from air travel to destinations developed by Red Sea International.
Captain Ibrahim Koshy, CEO of Saudi Airlines, commented: “Today’s agreement represents a new chapter in the history of aviation in Saudi Arabia, and our participation as the first airline to operate its flights from the Red Sea International Airport is a source of pride for all of us, and the agreement will strengthen our position in the Kingdom.” “It will allow us to cooperate with Red Sea International and Daa Intl to enhance tourism and enhance the country’s position in the field of international aviation.”
Koshy added: “This agreement will strengthen the existing relationship between “Red Sea International” and “DAA Intl”, which operates as the operator of “Red Sea International Airport.” “DAA Intl” will also continue to manage the airport and work with “Saudi Airlines” in Various activities, such as allocating airport gates and counters.”
On the other hand, Nicholas Cole, CEO of Daa Intl, expressed: “The Red Sea International Airport is a new gateway for travelers to experience the wonders of Saudi Arabia, and by providing our exceptional expertise in airport management, we will work with “Red Sea International” and “Saudi Airlines” to ensure Providing the best experience for all passengers traveling through Red Sea International Airport.”
It should be noted that 3 resorts will be opened in the Red Sea destination during this year, in addition to the opening of the first phase of the Red Sea International Airport. During the coming period, 13 additional hotels will be opened as part of the first phase, and when the project is completed by 2030, the destination will include 50 resorts, providing up to 8,000 hotel rooms and more than 1,000 residential properties distributed on 22 islands and 6 inland locations. The destination will also include luxury marinas, golf courses, food and beverage services, and many other entertainment facilities.
