Originally Posted by
LHR/MEL/Europe FF
not sure if you have already flown...
while I agree with the comments by other posters, I think in your situation it is probably better that you choose another airline.
if your immediate thought is that cheaper fares = compromised safety then it is not worth it to be worried about your aircraft for such a long flight. every bit of turbulence, every bump and you'll be worried. and that's not gonna lead to an enjoyable trip.
But the 747-400 fleet is operated by another airline, not Saudi. So you are already taking another airline.