Flydubai places US$11 billion order...

The carrier is diversifying its current fleet of all-Boeing 737 aircraft

Dubai-based carrier Flydubai has committed to purchasing 30 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners as the airline diversifies its fleet with the introduction of wide-body aircraft.

Flydubai is currently evaluating engine options for its first Dreamliner order.

The Boeing 787-9 aircraft can offer seating for more than 290 passengers and has a range of 14,010km (7,565 nautical miles) in addition to added cargo capacity.

Flydubai Chairman His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum said: “In 2008 when we placed our first ever order for 50 Boeing 737 aircraft, we were confident of the vital role that Flydubai would play in supporting Dubai’s aviation hub. Today’s order reaffirms Flydubai’s commitment to enabling more people to travel across its expanding network. The highly fuel-efficient Boeing 787 Dreamliner will allow Flydubai to expand its horizon and cater to the growing demand on existing routes.”

Commenting on the choice of aircraft, Flydubai chief executive officer Ghaith Al Ghaith said: “Innovation is at the heart of everything we do at flydubai. We're committed to offering the right product at the right time to cater to the changing market and customer needs. The Boeing 787 Dreamliner offers a perfect combination of operational excellence and fuel efficiency, as well as passenger appeal.”

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Boeing Commercial Airplanes president and CEO Stan Deal added: “Flydubai passengers will enjoy the Dreamliner effect, an experience like no other in the air, flying with more comfort and arriving at their destinations feeling more refreshed.”

Flydubai currently operates an efficient single fleet-type of 80 Boeing 737 aircraft and includes 30 Next-Generation Boeing 737-800, 47 Boeing 737 MAX 8 and 03 Boeing 737 MAX 9 aircraft.

The carrier now serves a network of more than 120 destinations in 54 countries spanning from Europe to South-East Asia.

For more information, visit www.flydubai.com