Pilot Graduation: Flynas announced the graduation of 170 Saudi pilots, including 123 from the "Future Pilots" program and 47 promoted to captain, achieving a 100% Saudization rate for co-pilots.
Expansion Plans: The airline plans to recruit over 1,000 Saudi pilots and double its fleet to 160 aircraft by 2030, following a major deal with Airbus for 160 new aircraft.
Strategic Impact: This expansion supports the National Civil Aviation Strategy and the Pilgrim Experience Program, creating thousands of jobs and contributing to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals.
Riyadh, August 22, 2024
In a significant milestone for the Saudi aviation industry, flynas, the Kingdom’s leading air carrier, has proudly announced the graduation of 170 Saudi pilots over the past 18 months. This achievement is a key component of the airline’s strategic plan to support its ongoing fleet expansion and operational growth. The newly graduated pilots include 123 individuals from the esteemed "Future Pilots" program and 47 co-pilots who have been promoted to the rank of captain. Notably, this accomplishment follows flynas' successful attainment of a 100% Saudization rate for the co-pilot position, underscoring the airline’s dedication to nurturing local talent.
Bander Almohanna, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of flynas, highlighted the airline’s unwavering commitment to empowering Saudi professionals through its specialized programs. The "Future Pilots" and "Future Engineers" initiatives are designed to cultivate the skills of Saudi men and women, preparing them for leadership roles within the aviation sector. Almohanna also reflected on flynas' remarkable performance in 2024, which included securing the world’s largest aircraft deal with Airbus.
Looking ahead, Almohanna revealed an ambitious plan to recruit over 1,000 Saudi pilots over the next five years. This plan is aligned with flynas’ goal to double its fleet size to 160 aircraft by 2030. In July, the airline signed a landmark agreement with Airbus to purchase 160 new aircraft, positioning itself as the largest aircraft buyer in the Middle East with a total of 280 aircraft on order. This substantial expansion will not only enhance flynas’ operational capabilities but also contribute significantly to the National Civil Aviation Strategy and the Pilgrim Experience Program. Moreover, it is expected to create thousands of direct and indirect job opportunities for Saudis, further supporting the Kingdom’s economic growth and development in the aviation sector.
Flynas’ strategic initiatives and achievements reflect its commitment to driving progress in the aviation industry, fostering local talent, and contributing to the broader goals of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030.
