IBM and Riyadh Air set a new benchmark in AI-driven airlines
By building from scratch without legacy systems, Riyadh Air leverages IBM AI platforms to optimise operations, personalise customer care, and expand connectivity to over 100 destinations.
Riyadh Air has become the world’s first AI-native airline in a landmark collaboration with IBM. The airline was built from scratch without legacy systems, allowing generative and agentic AI to streamline operations and unify employee and guest experiences.
By embedding AI into its core, Riyadh Air aims to redefine aviation efficiency and innovation.
IBM Consulting coordinated the integration, orchestrating over 59 workstreams and involving more than 60 partners. AI-powered platforms enable real-time data analysis, operational planning, and automated decision-making.
Crew and customer services benefit from AI-driven tools that personalise interactions, enhance workflows, and anticipate traveller needs.
Riyadh Air’s digital-first approach also focuses on employee experience, providing a single chat-based platform for HR tasks and operational support. AI mobile applications create a connected journey for staff and passengers alike, enabling proactive and context-aware services.
The airline is preparing to expand to over 100 destinations by 2030, setting a benchmark for AI-driven operations in the aviation sector.
By establishing an AI-native enterprise, Riyadh Air demonstrates how technology can transform entire industries.
The partnership with IBM highlights the potential of AI to streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and support sustainable growth while inspiring a new generation of digitally-led airlines.
Would you like to learn more about AI, tech and digital diplomacy? If so, ask our Diplo chatbot!
