Saudia Airlines is preparing to significantly expand its North American presence with the potential launch of a new route connecting Jeddah (JED) and Atlanta (ATL). According to reports from the Airport Slot Coordinator (ACL) and independent aviation analyst Ishrion Aviation, Saudia has requested slots to operate five weekly flights between the two cities, commencing in the summer of 2025. The analyst specifically points to Delta Air Lines’ lack of application for these slots as strong evidence supporting Saudia’s intentions. These flights would be operated using Boeing 777 aircraft, consistent with Saudia’s current US operations.
This expansion directly complements the codeshare agreement established between Saudia and Delta in October 2024. This partnership aims to strengthen their collaboration and enhance connectivity between the Arabian Peninsula and North America. The codeshare agreement already allows Saudia passengers access to 12 additional US destinations via Delta’s hubs in New York (JFK) and Los Angeles (LAX), while Delta passengers gain access to nine destinations in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East. The addition of a direct Atlanta-Jeddah route fills a significant gap in the current network, connecting two major international hubs.
Currently, Saudia plans to operate 17 weekly flights to the United States during the upcoming summer season, excluding the potential Atlanta route. These existing routes connect key Saudi Arabian cities—Jeddah and Riyadh—with major US destinations, including Washington D.C. (IAD), New York (JFK), and Los Angeles (LAX). All US-bound flights will be operated using Boeing 777 aircraft, ensuring consistent service and ample capacity.
Further strengthening its commitment to expanding global reach and offering attractive fares, Saudia has also announced two significant promotional offers. The first offers discounts of up to 35% on Guest Class fares for flights between Saudi Arabia and several key Asian destinations, including Beijing, Guangzhou, Bangkok, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Jakarta, and Medan. Bookings must be made by November 20th, 2024, for travel until March 31st, 2025. The second promotion provides up to 30% off Business and Guest Class fares for flights between Saudi Arabia and all of Saudia’s European and North American destinations. This offer is valid for bookings made by November 22nd, 2024, for travel until the end of December 2024.
The potential launch of the Jeddah-Atlanta route marks a significant step for Saudia Airlines, strengthening its transatlantic presence and demonstrating its commitment to expanding its global network and providing increased travel options for passengers on both sides of the Atlantic. The combination of this new route and the attractive promotional offers positions Saudia for significant growth in the coming year.
