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Dubai-based airlines Emirates and FlyDubai have ordered 125 aircraft from Boeing on the first day of the Dubai Airshow on 13 November. The orders are the latest sign of the positive outlook for aviation in the UAE and the broader GCC region at a time when the industry in other markets is showing signs of stress. 

Emirates placed a $52bn order for 95 additional wide-body aircraft, comprising Boeing 777-9s, 777-8s, and 787s. The order takes the airline's total order book to 295 aircraft and reinforces its position as the world’s largest operator of wide-body aircraft.

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed al-Maktoum, chairman and chief executive of Emirates airline and Group, said: “From day one, Emirates’ business model has been to operate modern and efficient wide-body aircraft capable of carrying large numbers of travellers comfortably and safely, over long distances to and via Dubai. Today’s aircraft orders reflect that strategy.

FlyDubai has committed to purchasing 30 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners as the airline diversifies its fleet with the introduction of wide-body aircraft. Sheikh Ahmed said: “The highly fuel-efficient Boeing 787 Dreamliner will allow FlyDubai to expand its horizon and cater to the growing demand on existing routes.”

FlyDubai is evaluating engine options for its first Dreamliner order.