Low-cost Saudi Arabian flyadeal has entered the Indian market with the launch of daily direct flights between Hyderabad and Riyadh, enhancing air connectivity between India and the Kingdom while targeting growing demand from business travellers, expatriates and leisure travellers.
The inaugural flight touched down at GMR Hyderabad International Airport on Monday, marking the airline’s debut in India. The carrier, part of the Saudia Group, will operate seven weekly flights on the Hyderabad-Riyadh route using Airbus A320 aircraft. The new service comes as airlines continue to expand connectivity between India and the Middle East amid rising passenger traffic and growing trade relations between the two regions.
“We are delighted to welcome Flyadeal to Hyderabad, marking its maiden entry into the Indian market. This new connection to Riyadh… significantly strengthens our network in the Middle East, reflecting the growing importance of Hyderabad Airport as a global aviation hub,” said Qadir Kaderavan, CEO, GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd (GHIAL).
He said the service will enhance connectivity for the Indian diaspora and business community while creating new opportunities for tourism and trade between India and Saudi Arabia.
With the addition of Flyadeal, Hyderabad Airport is now connected to 76 domestic and 24 international destinations, expanding its international network. Travelers from Hyderabad will also have access to several destinations across Saudi Arabia through Flyadeal’s domestic network.
Flyadeal described India as one of the fastest growing aviation markets in the world, and said that the launch reflects the growing demand for travel between the two countries.
Lloyd Mesquita, Chief Commercial Officer (Acting) of flyadeal, said: “The launch of our inaugural service to Hyderabad represents an important milestone for flyadeal as we begin our operations in India… This new route reflects the growing demand for travel between the two countries and underscores our commitment to expanding our international network while providing more choice, comfort and value to travellers.”
The airline will provide daily departures, with flights departing Riyadh at 11:20 pm and arriving in Hyderabad at 6:50 am the next day. The return service departs Hyderabad at 7:55 AM and arrives Riyadh at 11:05 AM.
The launch is also in line with Hyderabad Airport’s strategy to expand international connectivity and diversify airline partnerships as it seeks to strengthen its position as a major gateway for international travel.
