flydubai has signed a memorandum of understanding with Airbus for 150 A321neo aircraft, marking the carrier’s first order with the European manufacturer and signalling strong confidence in Dubai’s long-term growth ambitions.
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 a ceremony attended by flydubai Chief Executive Officer Ghaith Al Ghaith on the second day of the Dubai Airshow 2025.
His Highness described the announcement as a defining moment for the airline. He said the order 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. He emphasised that the deal is not simply about adding aircraft but is instrumental to Dubai’s broader aviation strategy and economic ambitions.
The introduction of the A321neo expands and diversifies flydubai’s narrow-body fleet, providing additional capacity and range to underpin the airline’s long-term expansion. Sheikh Ahmed noted that the acquisition will enhance flydubai’s role in the development of Dubai World Central, which the emirate aims to transform into the world’s largest airport.
According to the airline, the A321neo fleet will support the next phase of network growth, enabling flydubai to meet rising demand across established and emerging markets. The agreement also marks the start of a new partnership between flydubai and Airbus, which both parties expect to be long and mutually beneficial.
