The Saudi Air Connectivity Program (ACP) and China Southern Airlines have ventured into launching a new air route connecting Beijing to Riyadh.
The route, scheduled to start in April 2024, will feature two weekly flights between Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX) and King Khalid International Airport (RUH).
Additionally, commencing in June 2024, there will be two weekly flights between Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport (SZX) and King Khalid International Airport (RUH), operated with the A330-300 aircraft.
Amidst a rising demand for air travel between China and Saudi Arabia, this agreement aligns with ACP’s efforts and the broader Saudi ecosystem’s initiatives to boost capacity and meet the growing need for direct flights.
According to the statement, “The recent expansion of air routes between Saudi and Chinese airports by both China’s Hainan Airlines and the Saudi flag carrier, SAUDIA, further complements these efforts.”
Majid Khan, CEO of ACP, said that, “We are pleased to announce the entry of China Southern Airlines, a prominent global airline, into the Saudi market with the launch of direct flights from Beijing Daxing Airport and Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport to Riyadh. The introduction of these new routes reflects our commitment to expanding direct connectivity with China. We look forward to collaborating with China Southern Airlines to provide travelers from China with greater opportunities to discover Saudi Arabia’s unique cultural treasures.”
“This collaboration marks an exciting chapter in our journey to welcome more travelers from China, inviting them to explore Saudi’s vibrant culture, rich heritage, and diverse offerings. It sets the stage for unforgettable experiences at our world-class events, embracing the legendary hospitality that defines Saudi Arabia— a warm welcome that awaits visitors throughout the year,” commented Alhasan Aldabbagh, President of APAC Markets at the Saudi Tourism Authority.
The Saudi Air Connectivity Program, under the Ministry of Tourism of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, aims to enhance air connectivity from unserved and underserved markets around the world to the Kingdom. ACP works at the intersection of tourism and aviation by bridging the stakeholder ecosystem to enable the National Tourism Strategy’s vision and establish Saudi Arabia as a global leader in tourism air connectivity.
