Home Transport Aviation Flydubai Firms Up Boeing Airshow Order The confirmed $8.8 billion order, placed at the Dubai Airshow, provides the foundations for the low-cost carrier’s next growth phase. by Dominic Ellis January 7, 2014 Flydubai has firmed up the $8.8 billion order for 75 B737 MAX 8s and 11 Next-Generation 737-800s that it placed with Boeing at the Dubai Airshow in November. The rapidly growing low-cost airline, which currently operates 34 Next-Generation B737-800s, retains purchase rights for 25 more 737 MAXs. The order marks Boeing’s largest single-aisle airplane order in the Middle East. The 737 MAX incorporates the latest technology CFM International LEAP-1B engines to deliver the highest efficiency, reliability and passenger comfort in the single-aisle market. Airlines operating the 737 MAX will consume 14 per cent less fuel than today’s most efficient single-aisle airplanes. The first MAX plane is due off the delivery line in 2016. Flydubai chief executive officer Ghaith Al Ghaith said the orders signify “the maturing of the airline and the strength of our business model”. Last year it launched 16 routes and introduced a 12-seat business class. By the end of January, 14 aircraft should be configured with business class across 38 routes. 0 Comments