Retired Airplanes Journey from Jeddah to Riyadh

In a remarkable display of creativity and nostalgia, three retired airplanes have embarked on a unique journey from Jeddah to Riyadh, mounted atop trailer trucks. This unusual sight has captured the attention of many, sparking excitement and curiosity across social media platforms. The aircraft, which were once part of Saudia Airlines, have been retired since 2016 and 2017, and their transformation into attractions is part of a larger initiative aimed at repurposing these majestic machines.

The journey covered over 850 kilometers, passing through Madinah and Qassim before reaching its final destination in Riyadh. As the trucks made their way along the highways, large crowds gathered to witness this extraordinary motorcade. People from all walks of life stopped to take photographs, share stories, and even enjoy traditional gahwa on the roadside, creating a festive atmosphere around the event.

During their operational years, the Boeing 777-200ER models were known for their capacity to carry 341 passengers in a three-class cabin configuration. Now, they are set to be transformed into shops and restaurants, offering interactive experiences for both adults and children as part of the Boulevard Runway project. This initiative, in collaboration with Saudia Airlines, aims to breathe new life into these aircraft, turning them into vibrant community spaces.

Turki Alalshik, the chairman of the General Entertainment Authority, has taken a personal interest in this project, launching a campaign titled “Where Are They? ... Please Let Me Know.” This campaign encourages locals to document the journey of the planes, sharing images and experiences along the way. To add a competitive spirit, a contest has been introduced, offering a luxury car as a prize for the best photograph of the planes during their journey.

The excitement surrounding the transport of these aircraft has not only drawn crowds but has also caused traffic jams as motorists slowed down to marvel at the sight. Many individuals expressed their amazement, noting that such a spectacle is a rare occurrence. “We have seen large airplanes transporting trucks and vehicles from one place to another, but here we have videos and photos where a truck is actually carrying airplanes. It is not something that we normally see on our roads,” remarked one observer.

As the aircraft made their way through various towns, residents welcomed them with open arms. In Umm Aldome, a small town in Taif, a special breakfast was organized for the drivers, celebrating the arrival of the giant planes. Local resident Abdullah Al-Omair expressed his joy, stating, “It is a historical day here in Umm Aldome and we are so happy to see the giant aircraft passing by our town.”

Hajjaj Al-Zahrani, the head of the transporting team, shared his thoughts on the journey, highlighting the generosity of the residents in every city they passed through. “This journey has been amazing and what we have witnessed on the road was incredibly amazing. Residents of all cities we have been through have been very generous with us and they did everything to make the journey easy for us,” he said.

This unique event not only showcases the creativity of repurposing retired aircraft but also highlights the sense of community and shared experiences among the people of Saudi Arabia. As these planes transition from the skies to the ground, they bring with them stories of adventure and a reminder of the joy that can be found in unexpected places. The journey of these retired airplanes serves as a testament to the power of innovation and the importance of preserving memories while creating new experiences for future generations.