Royal Jordanian vs Air Arabia

Global Network and Operations

Royal Jordanian Airlines, the flag carrier of Jordan, operates a comprehensive network spanning the Middle East, Europe, Asia, and North America. It serves over 50 destinations across 30 countries, utilizing a diversified fleet that includes Airbus A320 family aircraft and Boeing 787 Dreamliners. The airline's hub is Queen Alia International Airport in Amman, providing strategic connectivity for business and leisure travelers alike. As a member of the Oneworld alliance since 2018, Royal Jordanian enhances its global reach through cooperation with leading international carriers.

Innovation and Milestones

Established in 1963, Royal Jordanian has consistently embraced innovation and achieved notable milestones:
• First Middle Eastern carrier to operate Boeing 787 Dreamliners, offering enhanced fuel efficiency and passenger comfort.
• Introduced modernized onboard services including state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment systems and Wi-Fi connectivity on select aircraft.
• Pioneer in implementing sustainable initiatives such as carbon offset programs and fuel-efficient operational practices within the region.
• Expanded partnerships through its Oneworld membership, enabling seamless travel experiences for global passengers.

Customer Experience and Recognition

Royal Jordanian offers a premium travel experience featuring multiple cabin classes: Crown Class (business), Economy Plus, and Economy Class. Passengers benefit from ergonomic seating with seat pitch ranging from 31 to 38 inches depending on cabin class. The airline provides modern in-flight entertainment systems with a broad array of movies, TV shows, and music. Known for punctuality, Royal Jordanian maintains a strong on-time performance record. The airline emphasizes safety with an impeccable safety history and adheres strictly to international standards. Meals are included on long-haul flights, showcasing Jordanian and international cuisine, and baggage allowances are competitive for all classes.

Future Outlook

Looking forward, Royal Jordanian plans to continue fleet modernization and network expansion toward new markets in Asia and Africa. The airline is investing in digital transformation initiatives to elevate customer service and operational efficiency. Commitment to environmental sustainability remains a priority, with goals to reduce carbon emissions and support global green aviation trends. As a leading Middle Eastern airline and Oneworld member, Royal Jordanian aims to strengthen its position as a premier hub carrier connecting continents.

Overview

Air Arabia is a low-cost airline based in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. According to Wikipedia, it was established by an Amiri decree of the Sharjah ruler on 3 February 2003, began flying on 28 October 2003, and was the first low-fare airline in the Middle East. Its parent, Air Arabia PJSC, is listed on the Dubai Financial Market. The airline is not a member of a global alliance. Its callsign is ARABIA.

Network and hubs

The main base is Sharjah International Airport, with further operating bases at Ras Al Khaimah and Abu Dhabi, plus Alexandria and Casablanca. Subsidiaries include Air Arabia Abu Dhabi, Air Arabia Egypt, Air Arabia Maroc and Fly Jinnah in Pakistan. The group serves around 200 destinations in the Middle East, North Africa, the Indian subcontinent, Central Asia and Europe. A Sharjah–Aleppo service was announced for 4 July 2026.

The regional conflict that began in February 2026 caused airspace closures and reduced capacity. In its H1 2026 results, Air Arabia reported 8.7 million passengers across its hubs, down 14% year on year, and a load factor of 83%. Check current schedules before booking.

Fleet

The fleet is all Airbus A320 family. Wikipedia's fleet table (as of March 2025) lists about 103 aircraft in service across the group: A320-200s, A320neos, A321-200s, A321neos and A321LRs. It also shows outstanding orders for A320neo, A321neo and 20 A321XLR aircraft, with XLR deliveries from 2027. The infobox of the same article gives 85 aircraft for the main airline, so the figure depends on whether subsidiaries are counted.

On board

Air Arabia operates a single economy cabin. Three fare bundles (Basic, Value and Ultimate) set what is included. No seat pitch, entertainment or Wi-Fi details were confirmed from the sources checked, so none are given here.

Good to know

• Baggage: a third-party guide (Travel Closely, November 2025) gives a free 10 kg cabin bag up to 55x40x20 cm. Checked bags are chosen at booking in 20, 30 or 40 kg allowances.
• Changes and refunds: on flights from, to or via the UAE, the airline's fee page lists a Basic rebooking fee of at least AED 200. Value allows one change up to 24 hours before departure, with fare difference applying. Ultimate allows two changes up to 8 hours before. Basic fares are not refundable in cash. Fees may change.
• Loyalty: the frequent-flyer programme is AirRewards.
• Lounges and upgrades: no lounge or upgrade information was confirmed on the airline's own pages.