RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s newest airline Riyadh Air intends to be a thought leader in environmental sustainability while growing its global reach, its CEO has said.
Speaking to Arab News on the sidelines of the ninth Future Investment Initiative conference in Riyadh, Tony Douglas said that while the industry’s net-zero goal is difficult, the airline will pursue both alternative fuels and near-term operational efficiencies.
This year’s FII conference is taking place in Riyadh from Oct. 27 to 30, and is being held under the theme “The Key to Prosperity: Unlocking New Frontiers of Growth.”
Riyadh Air, a new Saudi national airline owned by the Public Investment Fund, began operations on Oct. 26 with the successful completion of its first passenger flight from King Khalid International Airport to London Heathrow.
Douglas said: “The net‑zero target that’s out there, given the physics of powered flight, is extremely difficult,” adding: “But we’re absolutely committed to this going forward.”
