Retired Boeing 777s make 1,000km road trip in Saudi

The journey by road of three retired Boeing 777 aircraft of Saudi Arabian airlines (Saudia) from Jeddah to Riyadh has captivated people’s attention throughout Saudi Arabia as onlookers share the aircraft voyage through the deserts and mountains by posting videos and pictures on social media platforms.

The Boeing aircraft, which will be displayed at the Riyadh Season 2024 Boulevard Runway zone covered about 1,000 kilometers, from Jeddah airport to Riyadh, on big trucks. The bodies of the planes were transported after their wings, fuselages and other functional components were taken apart.

People across the Kingdom have been sharing the aircraft journey on social media featuring posts from Saudis donning the traditional attires and waving the national flag as they posed with the planes, families gathered to witness the aircraft, and children dressed in green shirts and caps waving little planes in their hands.

Saudi Arabia’s head of the General Entertainment Authority, Turki al Sheikh had announced on X a competition for Saudi nationals for the best photo of the aircraft on their way to Riyadh, promising luxury cars as a prize.

Al Sheikh has been reposting several photos on his X platform highlighting the enthusiasm among people as the plane challenge continues to gain momentum.

The three aircraft will be transformed into shops and restaurants, featuring nearly 13 interactive events, including games and unique aviation experiences for all age groups.