The plane was delivered to International Airfinance Corporation (IAFC) and leased to the airline. CAPA added that Saudia is also expected to lease a further 15 such aircraft from IAFC.

The Airbus A320-200 reportedly has a seven-inch cross-section advantage over its direct competitor aircraft, providing wider seats for passengers, a larger aisle for boarding and disembarking, and easier movement during flight.

Airbus also outlined that the aircraft performs exceptionally well in hot and sandy conditions, which are common across the Middle East and Gulf region.

Additionally, the aircraft manufacturer also noted the plane’s ability to operate well at some of the market’s most challenging airports.