The planned network carrier Riyadh Air is said to be about to place a large order for up to 150 Boeing 737-Max. The total volume in the narrowbody segment is estimated at 300 to 400 aircraft, with part of the total order also being allocated to the European aircraft manufacturer Airbus. Citing people familiar with the matter, the Reuters agency reports that negotiations are underway with Boeing to order 150 B737-Max in various variants. If the negotiations result in a firm order, it would be the second order from the Americans, as in March 2023 it was announced that 39 Boeing 787s had been firmly ordered. Options for 33 more units were also secured. Riyadh Air is a start-up that was launched by the state-owned Public Investment Fund. The company wants to build a large hub in Riyadh and compete with Etihad Airways and Emirates Airlines in particular. For this purpose, Tony Douglas was recruited from the Emirates. The manager was most recently at the helm of Etihad. Peter Bellew, who previously worked for Ryanair and Easyjet, was also brought in. "The establishment of Riyadh Air is part of the PIF's strategy to tap the capabilities of promising sectors that can help diversify the local economy. It will enable a more financially resilient aviation ecosystem in Saudi Arabia and support the global competitiveness of the industry in line with Vision 2030," said the official announcement of the new airline.