Riyadh Air has signed a firm order for 120 CFM International LEAP-1A engines to power its upcoming fleet of 60 Airbus A321neo family aircraft, marking a significant step in the new Saudi national carrier’s expansion strategy.
The agreement, finalised at Dubai Airshow 2025, includes spare engines and reinforces the airline’s commitment to operating a modern, fuel-efficient fleet.
A signing ceremony took place between Adam Boukadida, Chief Financial Officer of Riyadh Air, and Stephane Ceuille, CEO of Safran Aircraft Engines.
Riyadh Air orders
The event was witnessed by senior executives from Riyadh Air and CFM, including Tony Douglas, CEO of Riyadh Air, and Olivier Andriès, CEO of Safran.
Riyadh Air, launched in 2023 by Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, Crown Prince of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is developing its fleet to support the Kingdom’s aviation growth ambitions.
The airline’s new Airbus A321neo aircraft will be equipped with CFM’s fuel-efficient LEAP-1A engines, which include the latest high-pressure turbine durability kit designed to enhance engine performance in hot climates such as the Middle East.
Adam Boukadida, Chief Financial Officer of Riyadh Air, said: “We are excited to partner with CFM, the world’s leading supplier of engines for narrowbody aircraft, as we open a new chapter in our company’s history.
“Powering our new fleet with LEAP engines is a major asset for our operations, providing outstanding fuel efficiency, lower noise and emissions, and enhanced durability.”
Gaël Méheust, President and CEO of CFM International, said: “We are honoured to embark on this new journey with Riyadh Air as it launches operations with the Airbus A321neo.
“By supporting Riyadh Air’s fleet introduction, we are proud to contribute to building one of the most fuel-efficient fleets in the region, while helping foster a dynamic aerospace ecosystem in Saudi Arabia.”
Dubai Airshow 2025
More than 4,000 CFM LEAP engines have been delivered to date, making it the fastest production ramp-up in commercial aviation history.
The engine features advanced technologies, including composite fan blades and ceramic matrix composites, delivering 15 per cent better fuel efficiency and 15 per cent lower carbon emissions than previous-generation CFM56 engines.
Supported by advanced health-monitoring systems and an open MRO ecosystem, LEAP engines offer mature reliability and enable high asset utilisation for narrowbody aircraft.
