Bon Voyage: The Remarkable Road Trip of Retired Airplanes from Jeddah to Riyadh

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In a spectacle that captivated many, three retired Boeing 777-200ERs from Saudia Airlines flew a unique route: from Jeddah to Riyadh. This 850-kilometer road trip has gone viral on social media, with people in Saudi Arabia sharing photos and videos.

A Journey Through Saudi Arabia

Saudia Airlines retired the airplanes between 2016 and 2017. They transported them under tight security, covering over 850 km. They went from Jeddah to Madinah, then to Qassim, and finally to Riyadh.

Social Media Buzz

A person in traditional Arabian attire sitting on a prayer rug outdoors facing a large airplane with Saudi Arabian written on it
A moment of tranquility An individual engages in prayer beside a Saudi Arabian airplane

The event has drawn much attention on social media. The chairman of the Saudi General Entertainment Authority, Turki Alalshik, launched a campaign titled “Where Are They?” … Please Let Me Know.” This campaign encouraged locals to share images of the plane throughout their journey. Alalshik announced a contest. The best photo of the aircraft would win a luxury car.

Community Engagement

The road trip was a logistical operation and a community event. Residents of Umm Aldome, near Al Taif, hosted an official reception for the plane and held a special breakfast for the drivers. This gesture showed the locals’ enthusiasm and hospitality. They gathered to celebrate the aircraft’s passage through their town.

Future Plans for the Plane

A decommissioned commercial airplane with its wings detached being transported on a large multi wheeled trailer along a road in a desert setting
The fuselage of a large commercial airplane is transported on an oversized trailer through a desert area with the wings detached and placed separately

The General Entertainment Authority and Saudia Airlines are teaming up to turn retired planes into shops and restaurants for the Boulevard Runway project. This initiative aims to create interactive experiences for adults and children and breathe new life into the aircraft that soar in the skies.

A Unique Experience

Those who witnessed airplanes transported by road will never forget the rare sight. Ahmed Al-Shalaan from Riyadh noted, “We have seen large airplanes transporting trucks and vehicles.” But we have videos and photos of a truck carrying airplanes.” The journey of these retired planes was a logistical feat. It was also a cultural event that united communities and sparked national interest. As they make their final journey to Riyadh, these planes excite many. They leave behind a trail of memories.