Dubai-based airline flydubai has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus for 150 A321neo aircraft, marking the carrier as a new customer of the European manufacturer.
The agreement was signed by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of flydubai, and Christian Scherer, CEO Commercial Aircraft at Airbus, during the second day of the Dubai Airshow 2025. Ghaith Al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer at flydubai, was also present at the ceremony.
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum 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.”
Aircraft features
The A321neo is part of Airbus’s A320neo Family and features new-generation engines, Sharklets, and cabin efficiency improvements. Airbus says the aircraft can deliver more than 20% fuel savings and CO₂ reduction compared with previous-generation single-aisle aircraft.
Christian Scherer, CEO Commercial Aircraft at Airbus, said: “We welcome flydubai, one of the Middle East’s most ambitious and fast-growing carriers, as a new Airbus customer. The decision to invest in and introduce the A321neo into its fleet is another endorsement of the added value Airbus brings in terms of range, efficiency and passenger comfort. We look forward to supporting flydubai as it enables new growth and possibilities with our aircraft.”
Network expansion
flydubai currently operates flights to more than 135 destinations across 57 countries, contributing to Dubai’s position as a major global aviation hub. The airline said the addition of the A321neo will support network expansion, offering passengers access to new destinations with improved efficiency and comfort.
tanvir@dubainewsweek.com
