Saudi Arabia’s newly formed budget airline Flyadeal has taken delivery of the first of eight Airbus A320ceo aircraft from Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE).

The aircraft is the first plane received by the carrier, which is expected to begin operations by September.

Following its launch, Flyadeal will initially serve the domestic markets and has plans to expand its services to the regional markets in the subsequent years.

Flyadeal chairman Saleh Jasser said: “Saudi Arabia has launched its Vision 2030; a strategic platform for the future development of the Kingdom where transportation and tourism are key pillars. 

“The launch of Flyadeal is core to the strategy to mobilise further the country and the region.”

“The Airbus A320 has been distinctly selected for the needs of our operation, and we look forward to passengers experiencing Flyadeal’s onboard service."

Powered by CFM engines, Flyadeal’s new A320 fleet will include 186 seats in a single-class configuration, USB power outlets, personal device holders and other features.

Flyadeal CEO Con Korfiatis said: “Flyadeal will be Saudi Arabia’s newest airline, providing a unique experience with an optimal fleet to serve our domestic and regional markets.

“The Airbus A320 has been distinctly selected for the needs of our operation, and we look forward to passengers experiencing Flyadeal’s onboard service.

“Saudi Arabia and the region have a very young and digitally savvy population that has an increasing thirst for low fare travel domestically and across the region. Flyadealplans to serve and grow this significant segment of air travel.”

According to Airbus, its A320 family of aircraft has so far secured more than 13,200 orders, of which over 7,700 aircraft have already been delivered to 400 customers and operators worldwide.

Image: Flyadeal receives new A320ceo aircraft. Photo: courtesy of Airbus.