flydubai Signs Landmark Deal for 150 Airbus A321neo Aircraft at Dubai Airshow 2025
Flydubai has signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus for the acquisition of 150 A321neo aircraft, marking the airline’s debut as an Airbus customer. This strategic agreement reflects flydubai’s confidence in Dubai’s ambitious growth trajectory and reinforces its commitment to expanding its fleet and global network.
The MoU was signed by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of flydubai, and Christian Scherer, CEO of Airbus Commercial Aircraft, during a high-profile ceremony on the second day of the Dubai Airshow 2025. The event was also attended by Ghaith Al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer of flydubai.
“We are pleased to announce this milestone agreement for 150 A321neo aircraft, which marks a pivotal chapter in flydubai’s evolution,” said His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum. “This deal goes beyond fleet expansion—it supports the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.”
The addition of the A321neo aircraft will diversify flydubai’s narrow-body fleet and bolster its long-term expansion strategy. The airline aims to play a central role in the development of Dubai World Central (DWC), envisioned to become the world’s largest airport.
“The A321neo will power the next phase of our network growth, enabling us to meet rising demand across key markets,” added Ghaith Al Ghaith. “We look forward to building a strong and enduring partnership with Airbus.”
Expanding Horizons with the A321neo
The A321neo is part of the Airbus A320neo Family, featuring cutting-edge technologies such as new-generation engines, Sharklets, and advanced cabin efficiency solutions. These innovations deliver over 20% fuel savings and CO₂ emissions reduction compared to previous-generation single-aisle aircraft.
“We are proud to welcome flydubai—one of the Middle East’s most dynamic carriers—as a new Airbus customer,” said Christian Scherer. “Their decision to invest in the A321neo underscores the aircraft’s unmatched value in range, efficiency, and passenger comfort.”
As of October 2025, Airbus has received over 7,200 orders for the A321neo from nearly 100 customers worldwide. The A320 Family is already certified to operate with up to 50% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), with Airbus targeting 100% SAF capability by 2030.
Current flydubai Fleet and Expansion Plans
As of November 2025, flydubai operates a fleet of 96 aircraft, all from the Boeing 737 family. This includes a mix of 737-800s, 737-8s, and 737-9s, with an average fleet age of approximately 5.7 years.
flydubai is accelerating its growth with an ambitious fleet expansion strategy. In 2025 alone, the airline is scheduled to receive 12 new aircraft, including additional Boeing 737-8s to strengthen its narrow-body operations. At the Dubai Airshow 2025, flydubai made headlines by signing a landmark agreement for 150 Airbus A321neo aircraft, marking its first-ever Airbus acquisition and a significant step toward fleet diversification.
Looking ahead to long-haul capabilities, flydubai also plans to introduce 30 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, powered by GEnx-1B engines, to support its expanding global network.
Related News: https://airguide.info/?s=flydubai, https://airguide.info/?s=airbus
Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, airbus.com