flydubai Signs Landmark MoU for 75 Boeing 737 Max Jets to Power Global Expansion

Boeing and flydubai have announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on November 19 for the purchase of 75 Boeing 737 Max aircraft, with options for an additional 75 jets. The deal marks flydubai’s fourth major 737 Max order and follows the airline’s 150 Airbus A321 order announced the previous day. Together, the agreements underscore flydubai’s long-term fleet modernization strategy and its commitment to meeting the Middle East’s rapidly growing travel demand.

The Dubai-based carrier, which currently operates 96 Boeing 737s, said the fuel efficiency, reliability, and extended range of the 737 Max family have been pivotal in expanding its network to over 135 destinations, including recent additions such as Iasi, Nairobi, and Riga. The new agreement will enable flydubai to leverage the flexibility of the 737-8, 737-9, and 737-10 models, aligning aircraft capacity with route demand while optimizing operational efficiency.

“We are pleased to announce a new aircraft order agreement with Boeing,” said His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of flydubai. “Proactive fleet planning is essential to meeting the rising demand for travel. This announcement reflects our confidence in future growth and our commitment to supporting Dubai’s vision for aviation and economic expansion.”

flydubai CEO Ghaith Al Ghaith added that the agreement reinforces the airline’s long-standing partnership with Boeing and ensures reliable aircraft availability for both replacement and expansion needs. “This milestone order strengthens our position for the years ahead, supporting Dubai World Central’s growth and our ambition to connect even more destinations.”

Boeing Commercial Airplanes President and CEO Stephanie Pope welcomed the new deal, saying, “flydubai was among the first 737 Max operators, and their decision to place yet another order highlights the aircraft’s unmatched efficiency, range, and passenger appeal. We’re proud that Boeing jets continue to serve as the foundation of flydubai’s strategic growth.”

The Boeing 737 Max family offers up to 20% greater fuel efficiency, reduced carbon emissions, and enhanced passenger comfort compared to previous-generation aircraft. Designed for flexibility and performance, the 737 Max is particularly well-suited for the Middle East market, offering increased range and seat capacity ideal for expanding regional and long-haul operations.

Once finalized, the new order will solidify flydubai’s status as one of the world’s leading 737 Max operators and a key player in shaping the future of aviation from Dubai’s growing global hub.

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 on Nov. 18, 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.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, boeing.com