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Airlines experienced a resurgence in passenger traffic recently, with the International Air Transport Association reporting that global numbers were nearly back to pre-pandemic levels last year. While established airlines have been expanding capacity, many new airlines emerged in 2023 to meet growing demand. Among these startups were Riyadh Air, Mexicana, BeOnd, Red Way, and KM Malta Airlines.
Riyadh Air was launched as Saudi Arabia's new national carrier in March 2023. Owned by the kingdom's Public Investment Fund and led by Tony Douglas, it is part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative to diversify the economy away from oil. The airline plans to begin flights in spring 2025 with a fleet that includes 39 Boeing 787-9s and a recent order for 60 Airbus A321neo family aircraft. "The new airline reflects the ambitious vision of Saudi Arabia," said Douglas.
Mexicana de Aviación was re-established by the Mexican government in June 2023 after ceasing operations in 2010. Managed by the Mexican Secretariat of National Defense, Mexicana faced initial challenges but now operates from Felipe Ángeles International Airport with nine domestic destinations and plans to expand further next year.
