The Saudi Public Investment Fund-backed carrier has selected Unilode to provide lightweight ULD supply with integrated Bluetooth tracking and real-time monitoring capabilities, supporting operational expansion plans to serve over 100 destinations by decade-end.
Riyadh Air, a new Saudi Arabia-based, Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF) airline launching this year, has inked a deal with Unilode that will see the latter supply and manage the carrier’s ULDs.
The agreement covers the supply and management of new, lightweight and durable ULDs.
Riyadh Air will digitise the containers through Bluetooth-enabled tracking and Unilode’s reader infrastructure, enabling what is being described as “real-time visibility, stock optimisation and condition monitoring” to minimise loss and mishandling and to streamline recovery when something does go wrong.
Riyadh Air will be supported by Unilode’s full-service management model and global repair/maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) network, maximising asset availability and operational resilience as Riyadh Air’s operations expand.
By 2030, the airline is expecting to fly to more than 100 destinations.
The long-term structure of the deal is also said by Unilode to reflect its approach in recent airline partnerships to focus on digitalisation and end-to-end lifecycle management.
Adam Boukadida, chief financial officer at the Saudi carrier, commented: “At Riyadh Air, every decision is about creating journeys that feel effortless, personalised and responsible.
“Our partnership with Unilode is more than a technological upgrade; it’s about building trust, reducing our environmental footprint and delivering the premium experience our guests deserve.
“Together, we’re shaping the future of travel with smart, sustainable and human-centred solutions.”
Ross Marino, chief executive of Unilode, added: “Partnering with Riyadh Air at such a pivotal stage of its journey underscores Unilode’s ability to deliver value not only today, but also well into the future.
“Our innovative ULD solutions, unrivalled global network and pioneering digital platform will give Riyadh Air the agility and resilience needed to build one of the most forward-looking airlines in the world.”
On the move
The nascent Riyadh Air is agreeing other new partnerships. In August, it was confirmed that it had selected SATS Saudia Arabia to provide cargo handling services at several airports across the country.
The five-year agreement includes cargo operations at the Riyadh Air hub at King Khalid International Airport (RUH), with further support to be provided at King Fahd International Airport (DMM) in Dammam and King Abdulaziz International Airport (JED) in Jeddah.
Boukadida noted: “By leveraging SATS’ advanced cargo handling capabilities and global network, we are laying a strong foundation to build a world-class air cargo offering from day one.”
