https://arab.news/rwswz
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh Air has obtained a General Authority of Civil Aviation license for its first Boeing 787-9 full-flight simulator, a key step in its preparations for a 2025 operational launch.
The device, aimed at enhancing pilot training and safety standards, is a major addition to Riyadh Air’s training infrastructure.
This comes as Saudi Arabia aims to become a regional aviation hub, aligning with Vision 2030 goals to expand annual passenger capacity to 330 million, increase air cargo volumes to 4.5 million tonnes, and connect to 250 global destinations by the end of the decade.
Peter Bellew, chief operating officer at Riyadh Air, said: “This milestone underscores our commitment to world-class pilot training and operational excellence. The advanced simulator will enhance our pilots’ capabilities, aligning with Riyadh Air’s ambition to redefine aviation standards and deliver a next-level flying experience.”
He added: “We will continue investing in cutting-edge solutions that drive efficiency, safety, and excellence across our operations.”
Captain Sulaiman Al-Muhaimedi, GACA’s executive vice president for aviation safety and environmental sustainability, presented the operational certificate to Bellew during a ceremony.
Riyadh Air, a subsidiary of the Public Investment Fund launched by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in March 2023, completed its first non-commercial flight from Riyadh to Jeddah for certification on Sept. 12.