Austrian Airlines celebrates reintroduction of Saudi flights

Austrian Airlines AG the flag carrier airline of Austria hosted two events in Riyadh and Jeddah in celebration of its new direct routes uniting the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with Vienna.

Addressing invitees which included Saudi Air officials, Attar Travel, the diplomatic community, Austrian Airline regional representatives, members of the media and travel industry; Mr. Herbert Felber, Austrian Airlines Middle East Area Manager spoke of the airline's ambitious growth plans.

“The new routes launched earlier this month, are an example of our commitment to a strong network in the Middle East”, cited Felber. “Austrian Airlines aggressive expansion plan is dedicated to serve this region, which continues to be characterised by robust economic growth”.

The Middle East region represents a fundamental pillar of Austrian Airlines corporate strategy. In addition to 7 scheduled flights a week from its hub to Jeddah (4 flights) and Riyadh (3 flights), the airline also offers unsurpassed connections to 130 destinations in Western Europe and Eastern Europe, as well as Asia, USA and Canada, with just one short stop.

Ernst Leitner, Country Manager of Saudi Arabia & Bahrain said “Vienna’s International Airport, uses superior infrastructure, and while it’s highly efficient handling of incoming and outgoing aircraft ensures the fast, comfortable transfer of our passengers. The airport’s average transfer time of just 25 minutes is unique in Europe”.

"There has been a new flow of traffic from the Middle East towards Eastern Europe where Austrian Airlines enjoys a commanding market position,” continued Leitner. “Local and international businesses as well as the demanding religious and non-religious tourist sector will value our strong flight connections into the Saudi Arabia”.

Austrian Airways has equipped its Airbus A320 aircraft with the renowned Premium Service Business Class, featuring the sophisticated new lie-flat sleeper seats from RECARO. Passengers can also enjoy “The Orient meets the Occident” catering service combining elements of 1,001 Nights with aspects of Austrian hospitality.

The festivities held at the Hilton Hotel in Jeddah and Al Faisaliah in Riyadh over two consecutive nights coincided with the Airlines’ 50th anniversary of its first commercial flight were celebrated in true Austrian fashion. Highlights of the night included authentic Austrian food served by Chef Wolfgang Goebl from Hilton in Vienna, who was flown in especially for the occasions.