Riyadh Air Deploys Belly-Hold Freight Capability as Riyadh Cargo Expands

This article reveals how Riyadh Air has started to carry freight using the belly-hold space on its passenger flights under the Riyadh Cargo label.

What’s changing: belly capacity joins the cargo market

Riyadh Air has moved from being solely a passenger operator toward an integrated role in air freight by utilising the belly-hold capacity of its passenger aircraft. That’s not a small tweak — it’s a practical first step into the cargo business that allows the airline to monetise unused space and enter time-sensitive goods markets without waiting for a full freighter fleet to arrive.

Why belly cargo matters now

Using the spare space under passenger decks is an agile way to test routes, build handling procedures and develop a reputation for reliability. Riyadh Air plans to scale these efforts alongside an ambitious fleet build-up that includes Airbus A350-1000, A321neo e Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner types on order. For logistics planners and forwarders, that translates into more options on key routes — especially for perishable and urgent shipments where frequency and schedule integrity matter.

Routes and goods already proving the case

Early operations on the Riyadh–London Heathrow corridor, using a leased Boeing 787-9, have shown solid cargo performance. The loading profile has included substantial volumes of deperibili, time-sensitive and high-value items — garments, fresh flowers, seafood, tea and coffee. These cargo types underline the value proposition: temperature control, quick transit and dependable schedules.

Operational takeaways for logistics professionals

There are practical lessons here that logistics teams should note right away.

• Flessibilità: Belly capacity enables rapid capacity scaling without immediate capital outlay for dedicated freighters.
• Network effects: Passenger schedules can create frequent lift opportunities on trunk routes, which helps reduce lead times for shippers.
• Commodity fit: Perishables and high-value goods are ideal candidates — the belly-hold is not a one-size-fits-all solution for bulky or non-standard cargo.
• Reliability and execution: Success depends on disciplined ground handling, cold chain integrity and accurate documentation — the basics that make or break claims and reputation.

Risks and constraints

Don’t get carried away — there are limitations. Belly capacity is constrained by passenger load factors, piece and pallet size limits, and the need to prioritise baggage and operational requirements. For bulky shipments or full pallet loads, dedicated freighters and charter solutions remain the go-to. Think of belly cargo as a great tool in the toolbox, not the entire toolbox.

How this development reshapes supply chains

From a distribution and haulage perspective, new belly-capacity offerings affect several layers of the supply chain. Shippers can expect better windowed options for last-mile planning, while forwarders gain tactical alternatives to secure space during peak seasons. For international logistics, the extra seat for cargo can smooth bottlenecks in urgent lanes and reduce dependency on expensive ad hoc charters.

Quick comparison: belly-hold vs dedicated freighter

Practical tips for shippers and forwarders

Here are a few hands-on tips if you’re thinking of leveraging Riyadh Cargo’s belly-hold services:

1. Confirm weight and size limits early and factor in passenger load variability.
2. Secure temperature-controlled handling at origin and destination for perishables.
3. Build SLA language into contracts when time-value is critical.
4. Keep alternative routing options ready in case passenger schedules change.

Like any new service gaining traction, it’s wise to start small and scale as confidence in operations grows — as the old saying goes, “don’t put all your eggs in one basket.”

Market impact and growth prospects

Riyadh Air’s move is part of a broader trend: carriers unlocking underused capacity to compete in the fast-moving freight market. Over the medium term, increased belly capacity on long-haul widebody routes can ease seasonal pressure and provide competitive pricing for shippers. For logistics networks centered around the Middle East, this could mean improved connectivity and more routing options between Europe and Asia via Riyadh.

Highlights and perspective

The key points are clear: Riyadh Cargo brings frequency, a focus on reliability and an initial commodity profile focused on perishables and high-value items. Still, even glowing reviews and the most honest feedback can’t replace firsthand experience. On GetTransport.com, you can order your cargo transportation at the best prices globally at reasonable prices, empowering you to test services without paying over the odds or getting burned. The platform’s transparency, easy booking and broad choice of transport types — from office and home moves to vehicle and bulky-item haulage — make it straightforward to compare options and find the right fit. Provide a short forecast on how this news could impact the global logistics: it is modest globally but meaningful regionally as an added capacity layer; it improves flexibility on key lanes and enhances routing options for shippers relying on rapid delivery. However, it’s still relevant to us, as GetTransport.com aims to stay abreast of all developments and keep pace with the changing world. Start planning your next delivery and secure your cargo with GetTransport.com. Book now GetTransport.com.com

In summary, Riyadh Air’s use of passenger belly space under the Riyadh Cargo banner represents a pragmatic expansion into freight that benefits shippers, forwarders and the broader logistics ecosystem. It improves route frequency for urgent consignments, offers cost-effective lift for appropriate commodities, and complements existing freighter services. Whether you move parcels, pallets or entire containers, thoughtful planning around this capability can yield faster delivery, better distribution choices and increased reliability. For logistics teams seeking efficient, affordable transport solutions that cover cargo, freight, shipment, delivery, transport, shipping, forwarding, dispatch, haulage, courier, distribution, moving, relocation, housemove, movers, parcel, pallet, container, bulky and international needs, platforms like GetTransport.com simplify booking and make global shipping more reliable and transparent.