Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) is in talks with Boeing Co. and Airbus SE regarding orders for about 80 jets, the first aircraft purchases for the new national airline, RIA.

PIF is looking to buy about 40 planes and take out purchase options for a similar number, according to confidential sources. The requirement includes single-aisle aircraft and larger wide-body models able to fly long distances, they said.

The order contest will pit Boeing’s 737 Max against the Airbus A320neo-series in the short-haul category, while the choice for long-haul routes will be between the American firm’s 787 Dreamliner and new 777X, which has yet to enter service, and its European rival’s A350 and re-engined A330neo.

It’s not clear whether the fleet purchase could be split between the two manufacturers.

Source: Arabian Business