Daijiworld Media Network - Dubai

Dubai, Nov 19: In a significant shift in its fleet strategy, flydubai has selected the Airbus A321neo family of aircraft at the Dubai Airshow, securing a provisional order for 150 jets worth $24 billion, with an option for 100 more. The deal marks the first time the airline has opted for Airbus, breaking Boeing’s long-standing exclusivity as the carrier’s sole supplier since its launch in 2008.

CEO Ghaith Al Gaith said the decision to choose Airbus was driven purely by performance merits, highlighting the aircraft’s range and seating capacity as the key factors that aligned with the airline’s growth plans.

“The door was never closed, because whenever we go through a process of evaluation, we put everything on the table,” Al Gaith said. “Whenever you make an order of that magnitude, you must evaluate it on the basis of its merits.”

Despite the major Airbus acquisition, Al Gaith reaffirmed his strong ties with Boeing, describing the U.S. aircraft manufacturer as “my home.” He noted that Boeing was recovering steadily from its recent setbacks and did not rule out the possibility of a Boeing order being announced during the ongoing November 17–21 airshow.

“We cannot say for certain what we’re going to announce,” he said. “Boeing to me is almost like my home. And I’m very close with the leadership in Boeing.”

Industry observers view the Airbus order as a significant move that will reshape flydubai’s future fleet and expand its operational reach. Meanwhile, the aviation sector continues to watch closely for any potential follow-up announcements involving Boeing as the airshow progresses.