Ahmad Hassan had always dreamed of flying from Riyadh to London without a layover in Dubai. For years, the software engineer watched his travel plans get complicated by connecting flights, wondering why his home city couldn’t offer the same direct routes as other Gulf capitals. Last month, when he heard about Riyadh Air’s ambitious expansion plans, something clicked. “Maybe we’re finally getting our turn,” he thought, scrolling through news about massive aircraft orders and billion-dollar engine deals.
Hassan’s excitement isn’t misplaced. Saudi Arabia’s newest airline just made headlines with one of the most significant aviation purchases of the year, and it’s reshaping how the world thinks about Middle Eastern air travel.
At the Dubai Airshow in November, Riyadh Air dropped a bombshell that sent ripples through the aviation industry. The Saudi carrier signed a massive deal for LEAP-1A engines worth approximately €1.4 billion, choosing French-American technology to power its growing fleet of Airbus A321neo aircraft.
Why This Engine Deal Changes Everything
Riyadh Air isn’t just buying engines—they’re buying into a vision. Founded in 2023 as part of Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030 strategy, this airline has one clear goal: transform Riyadh into a global aviation powerhouse that rivals Dubai and Doha.
The numbers tell the story. Riyadh Air ordered 60 Airbus A321neo jets, each requiring two engines. That means 120 LEAP-1A engines from CFM International, the joint venture between France’s Safran and America’s GE Aerospace. But here’s what makes this deal special—it’s not just about the hardware.
“This contract represents more than just engine sales,” explains aviation analyst Sarah Mitchell. “Riyadh Air is essentially buying a long-term partnership that includes maintenance, training, and technological support for decades to come.”
The LEAP-1A engines offer something crucial for Saudi Arabia’s aviation ambitions: fuel efficiency and lower emissions. In an era where environmental concerns drive airline decisions, these engines burn 15% less fuel than previous generations while producing significantly fewer carbon emissions.
Breaking Down the Billion-Dollar Investment
While Safran hasn’t revealed the exact contract value, industry insiders can do the math. Each LEAP-1A engine typically costs around €12 million, putting the hardware alone at €1.4 billion. But that’s just the beginning.
Modern airline engine deals work differently than buying a car. Airlines don’t just purchase the engines—they invest in comprehensive support packages that can span 15-20 years. Here’s what Riyadh Air is really getting:
| Component | Estimated Value | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| 120 LEAP-1A Engines | €1.4 billion | Immediate delivery |
| Spare parts inventory | €300-500 million | Ongoing |
| Maintenance support | €200-400 million | 15-20 years |
| Training programs | €50-100 million | Multi-year |
| Digital monitoring systems | €75-150 million | Ongoing |
The real value extends far beyond the initial purchase. Airlines typically spend 2-3 times the engine’s original cost on maintenance and support over its operational lifetime. For CFM International, this means potentially €3-4 billion in total revenue from this single customer relationship.
“The aftermarket is where engine manufacturers really make their money,” notes industry veteran James Rodriguez. “Riyadh Air just committed to decades of partnership with CFM, and that’s worth more than any single sale.”
The timing couldn’t be better for both sides. Riyadh Air gets proven technology that’s already flying on thousands of aircraft worldwide, while CFM International secures a foothold in one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets.
What This Means for Travelers and the Industry
For passengers like Ahmad Hassan, this engine deal signals something bigger: Saudi Arabia is serious about becoming a major player in international aviation. The LEAP-1A engines will power Riyadh Air’s A321neo fleet on routes across Europe, Asia, and Africa, potentially offering new direct connections that didn’t exist before.
The ripple effects reach far beyond Saudi borders. This deal strengthens CFM International’s position against competitors like Pratt & Whitney, whose GTF engines have faced reliability issues. It also validates Airbus’s A321neo platform as airlines seek fuel-efficient aircraft for medium-haul routes.
Regional competitors are watching closely. Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Etihad have dominated Gulf aviation for decades, but Riyadh Air’s aggressive expansion could reshape passenger flows across the region. With Saudi Arabia’s massive domestic market and growing international ambitions, the kingdom has natural advantages its neighbors lack.
“This isn’t just about engines—it’s about geopolitical positioning in global aviation,” explains Middle East aviation expert Dr. Fatima Al-Rashid. “Saudi Arabia is using its economic power to challenge the existing order in Gulf aviation.”
The environmental angle matters too. As airlines face increasing pressure to reduce carbon footprints, the LEAP-1A engines offer measurable improvements. Each aircraft in Riyadh Air’s fleet will produce roughly 4,000 tons less CO2 annually compared to older engine technology—a meaningful contribution to aviation’s sustainability goals.
For the broader aviation industry, this deal demonstrates the continued dominance of the narrow-body market. While wide-body aircraft grab headlines, airlines are discovering that efficient single-aisle planes like the A321neo can operate profitably on routes previously requiring larger aircraft.
The success of this partnership could influence future decisions across the region. If Riyadh Air’s expansion proves successful, other airlines might follow similar strategies, potentially creating a cascade of orders for CFM International and Airbus.
Looking ahead, this engine deal represents just the beginning of Saudi Arabia’s aviation ambitions. With Vision 2030 targeting 330 million passengers annually through Saudi airports, Riyadh Air will likely return to the market for additional aircraft and engines in the coming years. For travelers dreaming of better connections and more options, that’s excellent news.
FAQs
How many engines did Riyadh Air order from CFM International?
Riyadh Air ordered 120 LEAP-1A engines to power their 60 Airbus A321neo aircraft, with each plane requiring two engines.
What makes the LEAP-1A engines special?
These engines offer 15% better fuel efficiency and significantly lower emissions compared to previous generation engines, making them ideal for cost-conscious and environmentally aware airlines.
When will these engines enter service with Riyadh Air?
The engines will be delivered alongside the A321neo aircraft as part of Riyadh Air’s fleet expansion, which is expected to begin operations in the coming years as part of Saudi Vision 2030.
How much is the engine deal worth?
While not officially disclosed, industry estimates suggest the engine contract alone is worth approximately €1.4 billion, with additional services potentially doubling that value over the engines’ operational lifetime.
Who manufactures the LEAP-1A engines?
The engines are produced by CFM International, a joint venture between France’s Safran and America’s GE Aerospace, combining European and American aerospace expertise.
What routes will these engines help Riyadh Air serve?
The A321neo aircraft powered by these engines are designed for medium to long-haul routes, enabling Riyadh Air to offer direct connections from Saudi Arabia to destinations across Europe, Asia, and Africa.
