5 big aviation moves at Dubai Airshow 2025

 

Dubai Airshow 2025 concluded after a five-day showcase of global aerospace, defence and space innovation, cementing its position as one of the world’s leading industry gatherings.

 

Held from 17 to 21 November at Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International (DWC) airport, the 19th edition brought together more than 1,500 exhibitors and 21 country pavilions, unveiling the latest advancements shaping the future of flight.

 

1. Emirates reveals Boeing order and Starlink partnership

Emirates, Dubai’s flag carrier, took centre stage with multiple new partnerships, led by a US$38 billion (AED139.555 billion) order for new Boeing 777 aircraft. Deliveries under the agreement are scheduled through 2038. The Dubai-based carrier also confirmed an order for eight additional Airbus A350-900 models, expanding its widebody lineup.

 

Emirates also introduced plans to operate the largest Starlink-enabled fleet worldwide, offering complimentary ultra-fast WiFi across its aircraft, with the rollout starting in late 2025 and completing by 2027.  

 

2. Flydubai orders more than 200 aircraft

Dubai’s low-cost carrier Flydubai signed an agreement with Airbus for 150 A321neo aircraft, its first partnership with the European manufacturer, valued at US$24 billion (AED88.13 billion). Deliveries will commence from 2031.

 

The airline also strengthened ties with Boeing, placing a new order for 75 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, its fourth 737 order to date. Flydubai is also expected to debut a three-class configuration on its upcoming Boeing 787 Dreamliners, set to enter service by 2027. 

 

Operationally, Flydubai partnered with Dubai Airports to link its systems with the airport’s operational database and billing platform, improving efficiency across flight and financial processes.

 

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3. Joby Aviation debuts air taxi in Dubai

Electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft developer, Joby Aviation, made history with the first live public demonstration of an air taxi at Dubai Airshow.

 

Ahead of the event, the US-based firm completed the UAE’s inaugural point-to-point air taxi flight, a 17-minute journey from the company’s facility in Margham to DWC. 

 

These developments come prior to the 2026 commercial rollout of air taxis in the UAE, in partnership with the local Roads & Transport Authority. The company also recently unveiled three vertiport locations for the taxis at the American University of Dubai, Atlantis the Royal and the Dubai Mall.