Riyadh Air launches custom cabin design blending saudi culture with cutting edge aviation innovation
Riyadh Air has unveiled the interior design of its inaugural Boeing 787-9 fleet, a significant milestone for the airline that aims to become a global aviation leader. Designed by renowned transport consultancy PriestmanGoode, the cabin encapsulates the airline’s core values of comfort, technology, and longevity. From the outset, the challenge was formidable: to build a premium onboard experience from a clean slate while meeting an ambitious 18-month timeline. The result is a fully bespoke cabin tailored to reflect the identity of Riyadh Air and the cultural richness of its home city.
PriestmanGoode immersed its team in the local environment, drawing inspiration from Riyadh’s architectural heritage, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Tourism. The “Canopy Twist,” a unique sculptural design element, stands as a central motif throughout the Business Class and Premium Economy cabins. This emblem blends tradition with innovation and serves as a bridge between the airline’s physical environment and its broader brand experience. Integrated into everything from seat structures to lighting and livery graphics, it offers privacy, ambient depth, and visual continuity.
Materials were custom-developed for the project, including an innovative pearlescent paint by Mankiewicz that enhances light reflection and simplifies maintenance, and a distinctive Economy seat textile created with Rohi, offering a dynamic iridescent effect. Comfort was prioritized through a series of ergonomic tests using foam mockups, 3D printing, and iterative prototyping. In Business and Premium Economy, a bespoke topper developed in partnership with Lantal further enhances the in-flight experience.
The collaboration extended across a network of industry-leading suppliers such as Safran, Recaro, Bucher, and many others, all contributing to a design that balances cutting-edge aesthetics with long-term functionality. PriestmanGoode’s multidisciplinary approach ensured that strategy, branding, and design converged seamlessly into a product that resonates with Riyadh Air’s ambitions. With plans to reach 100 destinations by 2030 and a growing fleet that includes 60 A321Neo aircraft, Riyadh Air is positioning itself not just as a new entrant, but as a pioneer redefining what a modern airline can be.
All images courtesy of PriestmanGoode
https://www.priestmangoode.com/
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