Flydubai Expands Fleet in 2025 with 12 New Boeing 737 MAX Aircraft
Flydubai has strengthened its strategic growth plans with the delivery of seven new aircraft so far in 2025 and five more Boeing 737 MAX 8s scheduled to arrive before year-end. These additions are designed to expand the airline’s network, improve operational efficiency, and increase capacity across key routes.
Fleet Growth and Network Expansion
Between April and August 2025, flydubai’s fleet grew to 93 aircraft. Once all 12 aircraft are delivered, the airline will operate more than 95 aircraft, supporting a growing network of over 135 destinations in 57 countries. This expansion is opening new, underserved markets and further establishing Dubai as a leading global aviation hub.
CEO Statement on Vision and Challenges
Ghaith Al Ghaith, CEO of flydubai, stated:
“The arrival of these new aircraft reflects our long-term vision and our confidence in the future of air travel. While we are taking delivery of 12 aircraft this year, we remain 20 aircraft behind our original projections due to delays. Our fleet investment is focused on offering greater choice, convenience, and connectivity for our passengers.”
Al Ghaith also highlighted that strong interest from financing partners underscores the airline’s resilience and contribution to the UAE’s leadership in aviation.
Financing and Partnerships
The first seven aircraft of 2025 were financed through:
- Islamic financing from Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB)
- Conventional debt financing from RAKBANK
- Sale and leaseback agreements with JP Lease Products & Services Co., Ltd (JLPS) and JLPS Ireland Limited
This competitive financing demonstrates global investor confidence in flydubai’s growth strategy.
New Routes in 2025
In parallel with fleet expansion, flydubai has launched 11 new destinations this year, including:
- Seasonal summer routes Antalya and Al Alamein
- Damascus and Peshawar
- European cities Chișinău and Iași (starting September)
- Vilnius and Riga (starting December)
These additions further strengthen the airline’s European presence and provide passengers with greater travel options.
Passenger Experience and Workforce Growth
flydubai is investing in its multimillion-dollar cabin retrofit programme, upgrading 23 Boeing 737-800s with lie-flat Business Class seats and improved inflight entertainment in Economy Class. The programme will continue into 2026.
The airline has also grown its workforce by 10% compared to 2024, now employing over 6,500 staff. Additionally, the launch of the Ab Initio Pilot Training Programme aims to prepare the next generation of pilots to support long-term growth.
