LONDON: Saudi airline Riyadh Air and American carrier Delta Air Lines have signed a memorandum of understanding to expand route options for customers traveling between North America, Saudi Arabia and onward destinations.

The agreement, which is subject to regulatory approval, was signed on Tuesday by executives from the airlines at the Delta Flight Museum in Atlanta. It lays the groundwork for a long-term relationship that will include codeshare and interline connectivity, the firms said, as well as a partnership that encompasses loyalty programs and broader aviation services including maintenance, repairs and training.

“We look forward to enjoying a very warm and productive relationship with Delta Air Lines, one of the largest and most successful airlines in the world,” Tony Douglas, the CEO of Riyadh Air, said during the ceremony.

“Riyadh Air and Delta Air Lines share common goals and pursue the highest standards in many areas including guest experience, loyalty and sustainability, built upon great networks and strong connectivity.”

Delta CEO Ed Bastian said the partnership will create an “array of new choices, benefits and destinations” for customers.

“Most importantly, Riyadh Air shares Delta’s commitment to providing a welcoming, caring and elevated customer experience, which is why we’re looking forward to building and expanding this partnership in the months and years ahead,” he added.

Riyadh Air was founded in March 2023 and operations are scheduled to begin in 2025.