Exciting opportunities are taking flight with Riyadh Air, Saudi Arabia's newest airline! 🇸🇦 They're gearing up for an ambitious recruitment drive, aiming to hire up to 700 pilots within the next 3 years. But that's not all – they're also on the lookout for cabin crew, engineering experts, and IT professionals to join their ranks.
The first wave of pilot recruitment has already taken off, focusing on experienced individuals with a knack for handling Boeing 787-9s and 777s wide-body aircraft.
According to Peter Bellew, the Chief Operating Officer, "We've been conducting interviews, and we're anticipating new faces to join us from January to April next year."
Some pilots are set to come on board as early as October through November. "Recruitment for the core group will be ongoing until December this year," Bellew added.
Backed by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF), Riyadh Air made a significant move in April 2023 by placing an order for 72 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner planes. This order includes 39 confirmed aircraft and an option for 33 more, making it Boeing's fifth-largest commercial order by value. The airline has big plans to acquire a total of 121 787 Dreamliners.
Casting a Wide Net for Talent
Riyadh Air's reach for talent extends to the UAE and the broader Arab world, viewing them as prime catchment areas for aviation expertise. As a point-to-point carrier, Riyadh Air is gearing up to compete with UAE and regional airlines by building a team that spans the globe.
The airline's appeal lies in its role as a global player in the aviation market, and they've received an overwhelming response from applicants across Europe, Asia, and the Muslim world. Peter Bellew emphasized that joining the airline would mean becoming part of a pioneering startup that's all about delivering top-notch service and meeting high demand.
Rewards and Balance
While specific salary details weren't disclosed, Bellew assured that Riyadh Air is offering competitive pay scales and a roster system that promotes a work-life balance. "Our terms and conditions are competitive, offering a better crew lifestyle. Pilots and cabin crew will enjoy more time at home, improved family time, and a favorable roster pattern."
Ready to Take Flight
Cabin crew recruitment is already underway, with initial applications being screened and plans for global roadshows. The selected initial cabin crew group will lead the way in training upcoming members, a process set to begin in October and extend into 2024.
Training will be conducted across various sites, including Saudi Arabia and London, and will include simulator centers and cabin crew training facilities to ensure that Riyadh Air's team is well-prepared to take flight.
