Emirates marked the opening of the 2025 Dubai Airshow with a rare three-aircraft formation featuring its A350, A380 and Boeing 777, giving the airline’s newest jet its first public appearance in formation flight.
Fleet formation
The display was part of a 60-aircraft flypast that highlighted the UAE’s commercial and military aviation sectors. Emirates led the commercial group, followed by other national carriers and military aircraft.
During the flypast, the A380 flew at 500 feet, the Boeing 777 at 700 feet and the A350 at 900 feet as they passed over Al Maktoum International Airport. Large crowds gathered along the runway to watch the formation, which is one of the Airshow’s most anticipated moments.
Emirati-led team
The Emirates aircraft were operated and coordinated by an all-Emirati team. Captain Mubarak Al Mheiri flew the A380 at the front of the formation. Captain Ali Almarzooqi piloted the Boeing 777, and Captain Rashed Murshed commanded the A350. Captain Khalid Akram, Deputy Chief Pilot Boeing, served on the Flight Control Committee overseeing the commercial segment.
According to the airline, the flypast required detailed coordination involving Emirates teams, other UAE carriers, the Ministry of Defence, the military, air traffic controllers, the Dubai Airshow Flying Control Committee and the UAE’s aviation authorities. Planners accounted for air traffic patterns, flight paths, weather and wind to ensure a smooth performance.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
