General Electric Company Partners with Saudia to Boost Aerospace Localization in Saudi Arabia
- Saudia Group partners with GE Aerospace to supply GEnx-1B engines for new Boeing 787-9 and 787-10 aircraft.
- The partnership includes a maintenance program to enhance operational sustainability and local aerospace expertise in Saudi Arabia.
- GE Aerospace emphasizes the reliability of its GEnx engines, supporting Saudia’s growth and aligning with regional technological goals.
Strategic Partnership Enhances Aerospace Localization in Saudi Arabia
In a significant move for the aviation sector, Saudia Group has entered a multi-year strategic agreement with GE Aerospace aimed at advancing aerospace localization within Saudi Arabia. Announced on November 19, 2025, this partnership is pivotal in equipping Saudia, the national flag carrier, with GEnx-1B engines, which will power its recently ordered fleet of 39 Boeing 787-9 and 787-10 aircraft. This collaboration not only facilitates the supply of these cutting-edge engines but also incorporates a comprehensive maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) program, along with provisions for spare engines, underscoring a commitment to long-term operational sustainability.
A crucial element of the partnership is the extensive capability-building initiative through Saudia Technic, the aviation conglomerate's maintenance and engineering division. This initiative is designed to expand and localize the Kingdom’s aerospace expertise, providing technical training and knowledge transfer that align with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030. His Excellency Ibrahim Al-Omar, Director General of Saudia Group, highlights that this collaboration will enhance long-haul capabilities and improve air connectivity while fostering the development of high-technology aviation expertise in the region. This aligns with broader national goals aimed at economic diversification and technological advancement.
GE Aerospace Chairman and CEO H. Lawrence Culp, Jr. expresses gratitude for Saudia's confidence in their technology, affirming that the GEnx engines are poised to deliver exceptional reliability and efficiency for Saudia’s expanding fleet. Through this partnership, both companies aim to cultivate a skilled aerospace workforce that benefits not only Saudi Arabia but also the United States, ensuring that investments, expertise, and value are retained within the Kingdom. The GEnx engine family, recognized for its advanced materials and technology, represents a significant leap forward in modern aviation, which is critical for the long-term strategic objectives of both Saudia and GE Aerospace.
In addition to the operational advancements, this agreement reflects a broader trend in the aviation industry where localization and technology transfer become essential components in enhancing regional capabilities. As aerospace sectors globally face challenges related to supply chain disruptions and workforce shortages, partnerships like that between Saudia and GE Aerospace serve as models for sustainable growth.
This collaboration not only strengthens the operational capabilities of Saudia but also signals a commitment to investing in local talent and infrastructure, aligning with global shifts towards more localized manufacturing and support in the aerospace industry. By fostering a robust aerospace ecosystem in Saudi Arabia, this partnership positions the country as a key player in the MENA region's aviation market.