Riyadh Air embeds AI to transform airline operations

Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh Air has partnered with IBM to create the aviation industry’s first AI-driven airline, designed from inception without legacy systems.

The collaboration aims to transform operational efficiency, passenger engagement and enterprise management across the carrier’s network.

IBM Consulting coordinated 59 workstreams and more than 60 partners including Adobe, Apple, FLYR and Microsoft to implement a comprehensive technology strategy. Initial flights are underway, with commercial service expected in early 2026.

The partnership integrates AI across employee and customer touchpoints, establishing a digital workplace with AI agents to streamline HR and self-service workflows. Mobile applications provide tailored service and proactive guest engagement, while AI-enabled voice bots and agent assist tools deliver contextual, personalised support.

Operationally, IBM Consulting implemented an enterprise performance management suite unifying financial, operational and commercial data. The system automates planning, forecasting and analysis, enabling real-time insights, route optimisation and stronger business performance.

Mohamad Ali, senior vice president at IBM Consulting, said: “By embedding AI into the very foundation of its operations, Riyadh Air is setting a new blueprint for what it means to build a modern, adaptive enterprise from the ground up.”

Adam Boukadida, chief financial officer of Riyadh Air, added: “We had a clear choice – be the last airline built on legacy technology or the first built on the platforms that will define the next decade of aviation. With IBM, we’ve stripped out fifty years of legacy in a single stroke. Riyadh Air isn’t just built for today; it’s built for the future and creating a pathway for many airlines to follow in the years to come.”

The AI-first approach positions Riyadh Air to serve more than 100 destinations and millions of travellers by 2030.

Explore how Riyadh Air is redefining airline operations with AI and next-generation enterprise systems in the full story.