Manchester is now the second destination in the United Kingdom for Riyadh Air, following the launch of its London service on June 10. The inaugural direct flights were launched on September 17, 2026.
According to SPA, the service was launched in collaboration with the Air Connectivity Program (ACP). The route operates three times a week on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
Developed under the ACP to expand seat capacity and international routes to priority markets, the service connects travelers from northern England directly with Riyadh. This allows for onward connections across the carrier’s network.
The airline is wholly owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF). The addition of Manchester is intended to facilitate leisure, sports, educational, and business travel while reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s position as a global aviation and logistics hub in line with Saudi Vision 2030 objectives.
When did Riyadh Air start flights to Manchester and London? Riyadh Air launched its inaugural direct flights to Manchester on September 17, 2026. This follows the previous launch of its service to London, which began on June 10. The carrier is wholly owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) and is expanding its presence in the United Kingdom.
What is the flight schedule for the Riyadh-Manchester route? The route to Manchester operates three times per week. Flights are scheduled for Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. This service was developed under the Air Connectivity Program (ACP) to increase seat capacity and expand routes to priority markets.
What are the goals of the new Manchester flight route? The route aims to facilitate travel for leisure, sports, business, and education between northern England and Riyadh. It is intended to strengthen relations between the United Kingdom and Saudi Arabia while supporting Saudi Vision 2030 objectives to establish the Kingdom as a global aviation and logistics hub.