Dubai-based low-cost carrier Flydubai has acquired its 17th aircraft at a cost of $80m.

The new aircraft is the latest delivery from the order of 50 Boeing 737-NG800 placed by Flydubai in 2008. The airline expects to take delivery of the final aircraft in 2016.

“With the expansion of our fleet and investment in the best and latest technologies, we are able to support the airline’s sustained growth, while ensuring quality and comfortable travel in a cost efficient manner,” says Ghaith al-Ghaith, chief executive of Flydubai.

In November 2010, Flydubai also confirmed sale and leaseback agreements on four further Boeing 737 aircraft worth $320m with Dublin-based Avolon (MEED 3:11:11). This deal secures Flydubai’s financing requirements for 13 planes through to December 2011.

The airline began operations in June 2009 and now flies to 36 destinations.