In a break from the past, where flydubai, the 2008-incorporated airline that is the smaller gauge carrier for Dubai (Emirates does the widebodies), has gone for a large order of Airbus aircraft.
flydubai orders Airbus A321neos
flydubai has today signed a Memorandum of Understanding for upto 150 Airbus A321neo single-aisle planes, with Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the chairman of flydubai and Christian Scherer, the CEO Commercial Airplanes of Airbus, in the presence of Ghaith Al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer at flydubai. According to some sources, this is an MoU for now, which will crystallise into 115 firm orders and 35 options.
The airline has been an all-Boeing operator so far, currently operating 27 Boeing 737-800 NGs, 65 Boeing 737-8s, and 3 Boeing 737-9 aircraft. With an eye on the opening of Dubai World Central airport in 2033 or so, flydubai has decided to go with the A321neo because it wants a more extended range and more seats. At the Dubai Airshow in 2023, flydubai ordered 30 Boeing 787 Dreamliner wide-body aircraft, a surprise move for the narrow-body operator.
The A321neo and the A321XLR in flydubai livery (render by Airbus)
Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed, the chairman of flydubai, said,
We are pleased to announce a landmark agreement for 150 A321neo aircraft, representing another important milestone in flydubai’s journey. This new agreement is not only about adding aircraft. It supports the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai and aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.
This strategic addition diversifies our narrow-body fleet and strengthens our long-term expansion plans. This will enable flydubai to play a key role in the success of Dubai World Central’s expansion plans, an airport we aim to become the largest airport in the world.
The A321neos will support the next phase of our network development and enable us to meet rising demand across our markets. We look forward to establishing a strong and enduring partnership between flydubai and Airbus.
The addition of the latest generation A321neo will support flydubai’s strategy to expand its network, offering customers access to new destinations with greater efficiency and comfort.
Bottomline
In a move that breaks with the past, flydubai, the narrow-body operator of Dubai, has placed an order with Airbus for up to 150 A321neo/XLR aircraft, which the airline hopes will power its expansion from DWC (Dubai World Central) airport. The order is at the MoU stage and will be crystallised in the coming days.
What do you make of this surprise move from flydubai?
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