Spectacular Road Journey: Retired Boeing 777s Transported 850km Across Saudi Arabia for Riyadh Season's 'Boulevard Runway'
The recent images of three retired Boeing 777-200ER aircraft being transported by road from Jeddah to Riyadh have garnered a lot of attention in Saudi Arabia and on social media. These planes, which were previously part of Saudia Airlines' fleet, are being moved to be repurposed for the "Boulevard Runway" project, a major attraction planned for Riyadh Season, an annual cultural festival.
These retired planes were taken out of service between 2016 and 2017 as part of Saudia's fleet modernization effort. The airline decided to replace the older Boeing 777-200ER models with larger, more efficient Boeing 777-300ER and Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft as it expanded. The 777-200ERs, which were delivered to Saudia in the late 1990s, had been in service for almost two decades and were capable of carrying 341 passengers in three-class cabins. However, due to advancements in aviation technology and the demand for more fuel-efficient, eco-friendly planes, these older models were gradually phased out
Under tight security, the aircraft embarked on an 850 km road journey from Jeddah to Riyadh, passing through cities like Madinah and Qassim. The sight of massive aircraft fuselages mounted on trailers captured public attention, with many locals lining the highways to watch the extraordinary spectacle. The aircraft were transported without their wings, tails, and horizontal stabilizers to facilitate the move, and crowds gathered to take photos and videos, contributing to the viral sensation online.
Turki Alalshik, chairman of the General Entertainment Authority, initiated the campaign "Where Are They?... Please Let Me Know" to encourage citizens to share images of the planes as they traveled to Riyadh, aiming to further engage the public. Additionally, a photography competition was organized, offering a luxury car as a prize for the best shot of the planes during their journey.
The planes' final destination is the "Boulevard Runway" project in Riyadh Season, where five retired aircraft will be repurposed into unique attractions such as shops, restaurants, and immersive experiences for visitors. This creative repurposing aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to diversify the economy and boost tourism.
The journey has also led to heartwarming encounters along the way. In Taif, for example, a special breakfast was organized for the drivers escorting the planes, and residents in smaller towns like Umm Aldome celebrated the passage of the planes through their communities. The transporting team, led by Hajjaj Al-Zahrani, expressed their gratitude for the overwhelming support and hospitality received during this unique road trip. Al-Zahrani remarked on how the journey has brought together residents from various cities, making it an unforgettable experience.
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