#Saudi Arabia #Riyadh #GE Aerospace #Saudia Group #GEnx-1B

Saudia Group's Strategic Agreement with GE Aerospace

In a significant move for the Saudi aviation industry, Saudia Group, one of the leading aviation conglomerates in the MENA region, has partnered with GE Aerospace to equip its upcoming Boeing 787 Dreamliners with cutting-edge GEnx-1B engines. This partnership marks a pivotal step towards enhancing the airline's long-haul capabilities and supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative focused on advancing local expertise in the aerospace sector.

Enhancing Fleet Capabilities

Saudia's recent order consists of 39 Boeing 787-9 and 787-10 aircraft, which will now be powered by GE’s state-of-the-art GEnx-1B engines. This multi-year agreement covers not only the supply of engines but also includes a comprehensive maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) program, ensuring that Saudia can maintain these engines with high efficiency. The inclusion of spare engines further strengthens the reliability of the airline’s operations, establishing a more robust infrastructure for the care of its fleet.

His Excellency Ibrahim Al-Omar, the Director General of Saudia Group, emphasized the importance of this partnership, stating, "This agreement with GE Aerospace not only enhances our operational capabilities but also accelerates the localization of high-technology aviation expertise within the Kingdom. By fostering in-country technical capability for the engines we previously maintained abroad, we ensure that investments and skills remain within Saudi Arabia."

Commitment to Local Development

The initiative goes beyond mere logistical and operational improvements. Saudia Group and GE Aerospace are committed to a series of capability-building initiatives aimed at advancing the Kingdom’s aerospace expertise. This will be executed through Saudia Technic, the Group’s specialized maintenance and engineering arm. Through this collaboration, technical training and knowledge transfer will equip local talent and fortify the region’s aerospace sector.

GE Aerospace’s Chairman and CEO, H. Lawrence Culp, Jr., expressed his appreciation for the partnership, noting, "We are honored to support Saudia Group's growth. With our GEnx engines, we are delivering reliability and efficiency that will bolster the airline's expanded widebody fleet, benefiting both the Kingdom and the U.S. for many years to come."

Technical Superiority of GEnx Engines

The GEnx engine family is known for its advanced materials and technology, setting a benchmark in modern propulsion systems. Engineered for higher efficiency and durability, these engines represent a significant advancement in aviation propulsion technology. Since their introduction in 2011, GEnx engines have logged over 70 million flight hours and now power two-thirds of all operational 787 aircraft, demonstrating proven performance and reliability.

Strengthening Aviation Infrastructure

As Saudia Group embarks on a long-term strategy that revolves around fleet expansion and new international routes, the partnership with GE Aerospace plays a crucial role in enhancing the entire aviation infrastructure of Saudi Arabia. The Group is actively working to elevate its technical capabilities through Saudia Technic, which will further contribute to the Kingdom's vision of developing a world-class aviation sector that strengthens its global connectivity.

This collaboration not only signifies growth for Saudia Group but also embodies the Kingdom's broader aspirations outlined in Vision 2030, ensuring that Saudi Arabia becomes a key player in the global aviation landscape.

About Saudia Group and GE Aerospace

Saudia Group stands as one of the largest aviation conglomerates in the MENA region, known for driving industry development through its various subsidiaries. From air transport and cargo services to maintenance and training, the Group’s expansive operations reflect its commitment to facilitating air travel that inspires people to explore the world.

On the other hand, GE Aerospace boasts a rich legacy of innovation and leadership in aerospace propulsion, serving a vast array of commercial and military aircraft. With a dedicated workforce and a commitment to transforming the future of flight, GE Aerospace continues to be a crucial partner in global aviation developments.