RIYADH: Saudi low-cost carrier flynas has received its 50th jetliner from Airbus out of an order of more than 100 aircraft, as it continues to pursue its growth and expansion plans. The Riyadh-based airline signed a deal in 2017 valued at over SR32 billion ($8.53 billion) with the European aerospace company for 120 A320neo planes, marking the second-largest aircraft purchase in the Middle East at that time. The Saudi national air carrier received its first A320neo aircraft in November 2018. This aligns with flynas’s strategy to expand its fleet, as well as its goal of reaching 165 domestic and international destinations, in line with the objectives outlined in the Saudi Vision 2030, the Saudi Press Agency reported. The A320neo airplane is the third of its kind received by flynas since the beginning of 2024, and it is due to receive other batches of aircraft during the year, thereby reinforcing the carrier’s commitment to sustainability and environmental protection. Additionally, the A320neo is the most advanced, environmentally friendly, and fuel-efficient single-aisle aircraft on a global level, SPA added. Taking delivery of the new aircraft also directly and indirectly generated hundreds of quality jobs in the aviation sector. Flynas recently announced the opening of applications in several programs, including the Future Pilots Program, Future Engineers Program, and the Cabin Crew Program for Saudi men and women. Moreover, the deal with Airbus was a strategic step for flynas, consolidating its position as a leading low-cost airline in the Middle East and one of the top four economic carriers in the world. The airline is moving forward with its ambitious plans to double the fleet size after its board of directors approved an increase in purchase orders to 250 aircraft. This aligns with flynas’ strategic plan, “We Connect the World to the Kingdom,” which is parallel to the National Civil Aviation Strategy that aims to enable national air carriers to contribute to connecting Saudi Arabia with 250 international destinations, and accommodate 330 million passengers by 2030. In March, flynas increased its capacity by 25 percent, allowing travelers to the Kingdom the ability to enjoy greater flight availability. In a statement released at the time, the firm noted this came as it completed the acquisition of two Airbus A320neo airplanes, indicating improved operational capabilities. Since its launch in 2007, flynas has flown more than 78 million passengers. It currently connects more than 70 domestic and international destinations with over 1,500 weekly flights.