flydubai adds more 737 Max airliners with 75 aircraft Boeing order

flydubai has announced a fresh agreement with US manufacturer Boeing to expand its fleet with additional 737 MAX aircraft, signalling a continued commitment to aggressive network growth and fleet modernisation.

The Dubai-based carrier confirmed that the new order will include a mix of 737-8, 737-9, and 737-10 models. The order is for 75 aircraft and a further 75 options.

According to the airline, the decision to stick with the MAX family is driven by the aircraft’s fuel efficiency, reliability, and range. These capabilities have been central to flydubai’s recent network expansion, which now covers over 135 destinations. Recent route additions include Lasi, Romania; Nairobi, Kenya; and Riga, Latvia.

His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of flydubai, described the deal as a crucial step in meeting surging passenger numbers.

“Proactive fleet planning is essential to ensuring we are well-placed to meet the rising demand for travel, a demand we are confident will continue to grow,” Sheikh Ahmed said. “Anticipating future needs is a defining factor in the success of any airline, and today’s announcement reflects our commitment to that principle.”

The Chairman also noted that the expansion is closely aligned with the broader strategic vision for Dubai, including the future development of operations at Dubai World Central (DWC).

The agreement ensures a pipeline of deliveries that will both replace older airframes and facilitate net growth.

This marks flydubai’s fourth order for the 737 MAX, a point Boeing highlighted as a testament to the aircraft’s suitability for the Middle Eastern market.

“flydubai is one of the world’s first 737 MAX operators and their plan to place yet another order reflects the 737 MAX’s market-leading value and versatility,” said Stephanie Pope, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “We are proud that Boeing airplanes will continue to serve as the backbone of flydubai’s strategic fleet.”

The announcement comes amid robust aviation growth in the region. According to Boeing’s 2025 Commercial Market Outlook, the single-aisle fleet in the Middle East is projected to more than double over the next 20 years to improve connectivity across the region and into Europe.

flydubai has been diversifying its strategy recently; in 2023, the carrier moved beyond its single-aisle exclusive model by placing its first-ever widebody order for 30 Boeing 787 Dreamliners.