Red Sea Strengthens Air Links with Europe Through Planned Direct Flights to Six Major Cities

Saudi Arabia’s Air Connectivity Program has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Beond Airlines to explore the launch of direct international routes connecting Red Sea International Airport with six major European cities: London, Paris, Milan, Munich, Zurich, as well as Moscow.

The agreement was signed under the patronage of General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) President and Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Air Connectivity Program, Abdulaziz Al-Duailej, on the sidelines of the Farnborough International Airshow 2026 in London.

The proposed routes aim to strengthen air connectivity between the Red Sea destination and key European markets, making it easier for international travelers to access one of Saudi Arabia’s flagship tourism destinations while supporting tourism growth and expanding travel options.

Al-Duailej said the agreement reflects Saudi Arabia’s ongoing efforts to expand its global air network through strategic partnerships with international airlines, supporting the Kingdom’s Aviation Program, National Tourism Strategy, and the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.

Air Connectivity Program CEO Majid? Correction: Ahmed Al-Ibrahim stated that the partnership with Beond Airlines is part of the program’s strategy to attract international carriers and launch new routes connecting Saudi Arabia with priority global markets, increasing inbound tourism and enhancing the Kingdom’s competitiveness as a global travel destination.

Meanwhile, Red Sea Global CEO John Pagano noted that the previously announced Milan route demonstrated strong European demand for direct access to the Red Sea destination, adding that the new agreement builds on that momentum by expanding connectivity across Europe.

Acting CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority, Abdullah Al-Hagbani, emphasized that enhanced air connectivity is a key driver of tourism growth, enabling more European travelers to experience Saudi Arabia’s unique destinations, events, and cultural attractions.

Beond Airlines Chairman and CEO Tero Taskila described the MoU as an important milestone in the airline’s long-term partnership with Saudi Arabia and reaffirmed the company’s commitment to supporting the Kingdom’s ambitions in aviation and tourism.