Flydubai has taken a significant step in its long-term growth strategy for 2025, announcing the addition of 12 new Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft to its fleet. The airline has already received seven of these planes between April and August, with five more scheduled to arrive before the end of the year.
This expansion will boost operational efficiency, allow more frequent flights on existing routes, and enable the opening of new destinations. By year-end, Flydubai’s fleet will grow to over 95 aircraft, serving more than 135 destinations across 57 countries.
Strengthening Dubai’s Role in Global Aviation
The delivery of these aircraft underscores Flydubai’s commitment to expanding its network and increasing travel options for passengers, further solidifying Dubai’s position as a leading international aviation hub. CEO Ghaith Al Ghaith emphasized that the new arrivals are part of the airline’s long-term vision, despite delays in aircraft deliveries over recent years. While 12 aircraft will be delivered in 2025, the company remains 20 aircraft behind its original schedule.
“Our ongoing partnerships with financing institutions reflect the strength of our business model and our commitment to connecting Dubai to the world,” said Al Ghaith. “These aircraft will allow us to link more markets and offer greater travel choices to our passengers.”
Strong Financial Backing
Flydubai has secured competitive financing for the new aircraft from various sources, reflecting the confidence of global financial institutions and leasing companies in the airline’s growth prospects. Funding for the first seven aircraft came from Islamic financing through Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank, traditional financing from RAKBANK, and sale-and-leaseback agreements with JP Lease Products & Services Co., Ltd, and JLPS Ireland Limited.
Network Expansion and Fleet Upgrades
In 2025 alone, Flydubai is adding 11 new destinations to its network, including seasonal summer routes such as Antalya and Al Alamein, as well as Damascus and Peshawar. The airline will also launch four new European routes—Chișinău and Iași in September, followed by Vilnius and Riga in December—strengthening its presence in the region.
The airline is also investing heavily in passenger experience. Since early 2024, it has upgraded 23 Boeing 737-800 Next-Generation aircraft with enhanced cabins, including lie-flat business class seats and modern in-flight entertainment for economy class. This multi-million-dollar fleet upgrade project will continue through 2026.
Investing in People and the Future
Flydubai’s workforce has grown to over 6,500 employees in 2025, marking a 10% increase compared to the previous year. The airline has also launched a comprehensive pilot training program, starting from the Multi-Crew Pilot License (MPL) stage, to prepare future pilots who will play a vital role in supporting its growth plans.
With its expanding fleet, new routes, and commitment to service excellence, Flydubai continues to position itself as a key player in the global aviation sector, contributing to Dubai’s vision of being a world-leading air transport hub.
