Boeing and flydubai have signed an agreement for 30 787-9 Dreamliners. The signing ceremony took place at the Dubai Airshow. This is a significant move for flydubai as it seeks to diversify its fleet by introducing widebody jets. By incorporating the efficient and advanced 787 aircraft, flydubai aims to expand its capacity on existing routes. It will also explore new routes for future growth.
“In 2008 when we placed our first-ever order for 50 Boeing 737 aircraft, we were confident of the vital role flydubai would play in supporting Dubai’s aviation hub,” said His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of flydubai. “I am proud today to see flydubai evolve further, surpassing labels and challenging the traditional conventions around travel. Today’s order reaffirms flydubai‘s commitment to enabling more people to travel across its expanding network. The highly fuel-efficient Boeing 787 Dreamliner will allow flydubai to expand its horizon and cater to the growing demand on existing routes.”
“Innovation is at the heart of everything we do at flydubai. We are committed to offering the right product at the right time to cater to the changing market and customer needs,” said Ghaith Al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer at flydubai. “The Boeing 787 Dreamliner offers a perfect combination of operational excellence, fuel efficiency as well as passenger appeal.”
Dreamliner Range and Capacity Suited to flydubai’s Longer Routes
The 787-9 aircraft can carry 296 passengers and travel a distance of 14,010 km (7,565 nautical miles). It also allows for the transportation of additional cargo. Since its introduction in 2011, the 787 family of aircraft has facilitated the launch of over 380 nonstop routes worldwide. Approximately half of all 787 Dreamliner flights operate on shorter distances, including short- and medium-haul markets spanning less than 5,000 km (2,700 nautical miles). This versatility and efficiency make the 787 Dreamliner suitable for all travel needs.
“The 787-9 is perfectly suited for the needs of flydubai as it looks to open up longer-range routes and add capacity across its network,” said Stan Deal, president, and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “flydubai passengers will enjoy the Dreamliner effect, an experience like no other in the air, flying with more comfort and arriving at their destinations feeling more refreshed.”
flydubai currently operates an all-737 fleet of 79 airplanes. The airline has an order backlog of 137 737s.
According to Boeing’s Commercial Market Outlook, the Middle East airplane fleet will double over the next 20 years. Nearly half of these deliveries will be widebody airplanes as the region grows its international air transit hub position.