flydubai Signs MoU for 75 Boeing 737 MAX Aircraft

flydubai has made a notable advancement in its long-term growth strategy by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for 75 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, with the possibility of acquiring an additional 75. Announced on 19 November 2025, this agreement represents the Dubai-based airline's fourth order for this model, solidifying the 737 MAX as the core of its growing fleet.

The new agreement bolsters the airline's status as a leading operator of Boeing's single-aisle aircraft. With 96 Boeing 737 airliners already in operation, this further commitment will aid in future growth and help keep the fleet modern and efficient by replacing older aircraft over time.

Signing the MoU, His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of flydubai, emphasised the importance of forward-thinking fleet management in an aviation landscape defined by rising demand and intense competition. “Looking ahead, proactive fleet planning is essential to ensuring we are well-placed to meet the rising demand for travel,” he said. “Anticipating future needs is a defining factor in the success of any airline, and today's announcement reflects our commitment to that principle.”

He added that Boeing has played a pivotal role in enabling flydubai’s rapid growth since its inception, helping the airline build a network that now spans more than 135 destinations across Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia. New routes in 2025 alone include Lasi, Nairobi, Riga and other emerging destinations increasingly connecting through Dubai’s aviation hub.

Sheikh Ahmed also highlighted the importance of aircraft availability and on-time deliveries in supporting the aviation sector’s recovery and expansion. The new MoU, he noted, ensures flydubai remains positioned to support Dubai’s ambitious vision, including playing a central role in the future expansion of Dubai World Central.

The announcement reinforces the airline’s confidence in the 737 MAX family’s capabilities. With the flexibility of the 737-8, 737-9 and 737-10 models at its disposal, flydubai can tailor aircraft to specific route requirements, balancing operational efficiency with market demand.

The 737 MAX family is known for its improved fuel burn, reduced emissions, and enhanced passenger comfort. These advantages align closely with flydubai’s operational philosophy of running a modern, fuel-efficient fleet that supports both environmental goals and cost-effective operations. For fast-growing carriers like flydubai, the combination of range, efficiency, and reliability is key.

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

Boeing’s 2025 Commercial Market Outlook predicts that the Middle East's single-aisle aircraft fleet will more than double in the next twenty years. This growth is fueled by rapid population increase, expanding tourism, and the region's rising status as a global transit hub. Aircraft such as the 737 MAX are expected to be pivotal in addressing this future demand and in maintaining connectivity between the Middle East, Europe, Africa, and South Asia.

While flydubai's current fleet primarily consists of single-aisle aircraft, the airline is expanding its variety. In 2023, it made its inaugural widebody order by purchasing 30 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, setting the stage for future long-haul growth.

This latest MoU further strengthens the long-standing partnership between the two companies. Boeing continues to serve as a key supplier for flydubai as the airline transitions into its next phase of development, balancing network growth with fleet renewal and environmental performance. For flydubai, the order is a clear statement of confidence in its future. With a growing global footprint, a modernising fleet, and Dubai’s continued investment in aviation infrastructure, the airline is positioning itself to remain one of the region’s most dynamic and influential carriers.

As flydubai gets ready to conclude the agreement, it paves the way for another decade of growth centred on the adaptable and efficient Boeing 737 MAX family. This fleet continues to uphold the airline's mission of linking people, places, and opportunities worldwide.