CHICAGO (Reuters) - Riyadh Air said on Tuesday it has partnered with U.S. carrier Delta Air Lines ( DAL ) as the Saudi startup carrier grows its potential network ahead of launching commercial operations next year.

Riyadh Air, which is owned by Saudi sovereign wealth fund PIF, will be a second national airline, based in the capital Riyadh, alongside existing flag carrier Saudia, which is based in Jeddah.

The airline is trying to build its network through a series of bilateral partnerships and code shares rather than relying purely on its own planes, or joining a formal airline alliance.

Last month, it announced partnerships with Singapore Airlines and Air China.

Riyadh Air said Delta will serve as its exclusive partner in North America, offering its customers access to hundreds of destinations in the U.S.

For Delta's customers, the partnership will open new destinations in Saudi Arabia, it said.