DUBAI- Etihad Airways (EY) confirmed major Airbus orders at Dubai Airshow 2025, securing new widebody aircraft for Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH). The airline also expanded its lease commitments to support near-term network growth.
flydubai (FZ) followed with its first ever Airbus order, selecting the A321neo family for Dubai International Airport (DXB), along with a new Starlink in-flight connectivity agreement across its Boeing 737 fleet.
Etihad Airbus Order at Dubai Airshow
Etihad Airways placed firm orders for six A330-900s, seven A350-1000s, and three A350F, marking another step in the carrier’s long-haul fleet renewal.
The deal also included nine A330-900s on lease from Avolon. These additions strengthen Etihad’s medium-haul, long-haul, and cargo capabilities while raising its total A350-1000 commitment to 27 and A350F commitment to 10.
Airbus leadership highlighted the strategic alignment between both partners as the A330neo and A350 families offer high fuel efficiency, lower carbon emissions, and long-range capability.
The A350 can fly up to 9,700 nautical miles with reduced operating cost due to advanced aerodynamics, lightweight materials, and Rolls-Royce engines.
The A330neo delivers similar benefits on medium and long-range routes with up to 8,100 nautical miles of range.
Etihad continues to evaluate sustainable aviation fuel pathways. Both aircraft families can operate with up to 50 percent SAF today, with Airbus targeting 100 percent compatibility by 2030.
Technical Features of the A350F and A330neo
The A350F includes the industry’s largest main deck cargo door and is built around standard container dimensions to maximize freight efficiency. It will be the only freighter fully compliant with ICAO’s enhanced CO2 rules taking effect in 2027. Assembly of the test aircraft is underway in Toulouse.
The A330neo is powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines and features the Airspace cabin with improved comfort, lighting, and in-flight amenities. The aircraft offers up to 25 percent lower fuel burn and emissions compared to previous generation models.
flydubai Airbus Order and Starlink Partnership
Flydubai made its largest fleet shift since launch by ordering 150 A321 aircraft. Until now, the airline operated only Boeing models, including the 737-800, 737 MAX, and future 787-9.
The new order positions the carrier for broader regional expansion with a high-capacity narrowbody capable of extended range operations.
Flydubai signed an agreement with SpaceX to equip its Boeing 737 fleet with Starlink’s low-latency, high-speed internet service. Installations for 100 aircraft are planned for 2026. The partnership will support streaming, video calls, and real-time digital services across more than 100 destinations.
The carrier sees onboard connectivity as a core part of its customer experience strategy. Starlink’s short installation time allows Flydubai to accelerate rollout while ensuring uninterrupted broadband quality across its network.
Airbus Orderbook
As of October 2025, the A350 family accumulated more than 1,400 orders from 64 customers, while the A330 family surpassed 1,900 orders from over 130 operators worldwide.
Demand for modern widebody aircraft continues to rise as airlines shift toward more efficient long-haul operations.
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