Three retired Saudia Airlines Boeing 777s traversed Saudi Arabia by land from Jeddah to Riyadh to be part of the Riyadh Season 2024 Boulevard Runway zone.
The over 25-year old planes covered the 850 km journey from Jeddah to Riyadh by road on very large trucks after being stripped of their wings, tail assemblies and other parts. The visual spectacle of the trip has generated tremendous interest in the Kingdom as people come out to witness the project. Many have been donning traditional attire, waving the Saudi flag as they posed with the planes and posting to social media.
Saudi Arabia’s head of the General Entertainment Authority, Turki al Sheikh has been especially active on social media tracking the planes’ progress and announced a competition for Saudi nationals for the best photo of the aircraft on their way to Riyadh, promising a luxury cars as a prize.
In preparation for the trip, the aircraft underwent extensive preparation, leaving only the fuselages.
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The three Boeing B777-200ERs were flown by Saudi Airlines and went into service in 1998-99. They were retired in 2016-17.
As part of the Riyadh Season 2024 Boulevard Runway zone the aircraft will be transformed into shops and restaurants, featuring nearly 13 interactive events, including games and unique aviation experiences for all age groups.
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