Saudi Arabian Airlines (Saudia) has received its first Airbus A320 aircraft from ALAFCO under a long-term lease agreement.

The airlines will deploy the A320 to Europe and India from Riyadh.

The A320-200 powered by CFM56 engines, will seat between 120 and 132 passengers in two-classes.

Saudi Arabian Airlines director general Khalid Al Molhem said that the Airbus A320 is the right aircraft for their ambitious fleet modernisation plan.

“The aircraft combines operational efficiency as well as cabin comfort for our customers, and will enable Saudia to meet rising passenger demands and expectations,” he said.

Saudia placed an order directly with Airbus for 22 A320 aircraft at the Dubai International Airshow in November 2007.