ITA Airways Inaugurates Direct Flights Between Rome And Riyadh, Strengthening Saudi-Italian Air Travel

The Air Connectivity Program (ACP), in collaboration with its key partners in Saudi Arabia, welcomed ITA Airways on its inaugural direct flight from Rome to Riyadh. The event, organised by Riyadh Airports Company, saw representatives from various organisations celebrating the occasion, which aims to boost the number of incoming travellers to Saudi Arabia.

"We are delighted to welcome ITA Airways, Italy's flag carrier, as it launches direct flights between Rome and Riyadh—two key aviation hubs. ITA's entry into the Saudi market will greatly enhance our air connectivity, promote tourism between these vibrant capital cities, and attract more inbound visitors from the airline's extensive network in America. We look forward to working with our partners to offer travellers from around the world seamless and convenient access to the wonders of Saudi Arabia," said Aymen Aboabah, CEO of Riyadh Airports, and Majid Khan, CEO of the Air Connectivity Program.

Emiliana Limosani, Chief Commercial Officer of ITA Airways and CEO of Volare, expressed pride in inaugurating the first nonstop flight to Riyadh and Saudi Arabia. She highlighted that this new connection is a significant milestone for ITA Airways and will intensify trade flows between the Arabian Peninsula and Italy. Limosani also mentioned that ITA Airways plans to introduce new nonstop flights to Kuwait City and Jeddah in July and August.

The Saudi Air Connectivity Program (ACP), under the Ministry of Tourism of Saudi Arabia, aims to improve air connectivity from unserved and underserved markets globally. ACP operates at the intersection of tourism and aviation, bridging stakeholders to enable the National Tourism Strategy’s vision and establish Saudi Arabia as a global leader in tourism air connectivity.

ITA Airways' new routes are expected to enhance business traffic and trade flows between Italy and the Middle East. The airline's commitment to expanding its presence in the region aligns with ACP's objectives of increasing international tourism and strengthening economic ties.

The collaboration between ACP, Riyadh Airports Company, and ITA Airways marks a significant step towards achieving these goals. The introduction of direct flights between Rome and Riyadh is anticipated to facilitate easier travel for tourists and business travellers alike.

This development is part of a broader strategy by Saudi Arabia to position itself as a premier destination for global travellers. By improving air connectivity, the Kingdom aims to attract more visitors and boost its tourism sector.

The ceremony celebrating ITA Airways' inaugural flight underscores the importance of international partnerships in achieving these objectives. With further expansions planned, such as new routes to Kuwait City and Jeddah, ITA Airways is set to play a crucial role in enhancing air travel options for passengers travelling to and from Saudi Arabia.

With inputs from SPA