Emirates has announced a substantial expansion with an order for 90 additional Boeing 777X twinjets valued at $52 billion. The order includes 55 777-9s, set for delivery from 2025, and 35 of the smaller 777-8s, scheduled to arrive in 2030. Emirates Group chief Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum revealed that the airline would be among the launch customers for the 777-8. The carrier is also updating its previous 787 order, adjusting from the original commitment of 40 787-10s to taking 30 787-9s, with a total of 35 Dreamliners, including 15 787-10s and 20 787-8s. To power the 777Xs, Emirates is signing for 202 additional General Electric GE9X engines. The airline’s widebody fleet now comprises 245 aircraft on order, including 205 777Xs.
Flydubai, Emirates’ partner, has also taken a significant step by ordering 30 Boeing 787-9s, marking a move into widebody operations. This is a significant shift for Flydubai, which had been exclusively using 737s, including the -800 and the Max versions. Flydubai’s decision to introduce widebodies reflects a maturing of the airline and its strategy to invest in advanced and efficient aircraft. The joint announcement at the Dubai Airshow showcased the close partnership between Emirates and Flydubai, both of which will benefit from the expanded and diversified fleet.
