Three Saudia Boeing 777-200ERs transported by road to become part of an escape game
Published: September 8, 2024
Three retired Boeing 777 aircraft are being relocated from Jeddah to Riyadh to become part of a new tourist attraction called “Boulevard Runway.” This hub aims to offer a variety of experiences including restaurants, shops, a cinema, and an escape game. Each of these planes has a rich history, having flown for nearly 18 years and accumulated many stories from their service with air and ground crews, as well as passengers. The first aircraft, HZ-AKG, was introduced in March 1998 and retired in September 2016, marking it as Saudi Airlines' first decommissioned B777-200ER. The second, HZ-AKK, was decommissioned in the same year, while the third, HZ-AKP, entered service in March 1999 and was retired in June 2017. Notably, the Boeing 777 model remains in widespread use globally, highlighting its durability and continued relevance in the aviation industry.
From a transportation perspective, this initiative reflects a growing trend of repurposing retired aircraft as attractions, which promotes sustainability while creating unique tourism experiences. Using aircraft in this manner not only preserves aviation history but also serves as an engaging way to educate visitors about aviation. It also helps in utilizing valuable assets that might otherwise become scrap, indicating a creative approach to enhancing local tourism and economic growth.