Flydubai Announces First Net Profit Since Launch

Flydubai has announced net profit for 2012 of Dhs151.9 million ($41.4 million), the low cost carrier’s first profit in three years.

The airline also reported revenue of Dhs2.7 billion ($756 million) at an announcement led by the company’s chairman HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum in Dubai on Wednesday.

Having commenced operations in June 2009, the company has carried 10.4 million passengers and now flies to 52 destinations.

Sheikh Ahmed also announced that Dubai’s new Al Maktoum International airport is to be inaugurated in October this year.

Also know as Dubai World Central, the new hub will be opened before the Dubai Airshow in November.

“A final decision has ben made to inaugurate Al Maktoum International Airport in October before the airshow. It’s a promise.”

Despite long-term speculation, Ghaith al Ghaith, Flydubai’s CEO, said the carrier would not relocate to Dubai World Central, which is to be used predominantly for private jets and cargo planes.

The announcement also revealed Flydubai is to order dozens of new aircraft.

“We’re looking at placing an order for an additional 50 aircraft and we are in talks with Airbus and Boeing who will compete for the transaction,” said Sheikh Ahmed.

Boeing’s 737 Max, which the carrier already uses, is believed to be in the running against Airbus’ A320 neos for the order.

“We hope to make an announcement at the Dubai Airshow,” Sheikh Ahmed added.