Airbus Secures Major Deals at Dubai Airshow 2025 with Etihad and flydubai

DUBAI- Etihad Airways (EY) solidified significant Airbus purchases during the Dubai Airshow 2025, adding new widebody aircraft for Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH). The airline also enhanced its leasing commitments to bolster immediate network expansion.

In a notable shift, flydubai (FZ) placed its first-ever Airbus order, opting for the A321neo family for Dubai International Airport (DXB). The airline also introduced a new Starlink connectivity agreement for its Boeing 737 fleet.

Etihad’s Airbus Orders at Dubai Airshow

Etihad Airways confirmed firm orders for six A330-900s, seven A350-1000s, and three A350F, a significant advancement in updating its long-haul fleet.

This agreement also includes nine A330-900s leased from Avolon. These additions will enhance Etihad’s capabilities for medium-haul, long-haul, and cargo operations, increasing its total A350-1000 commitment to 27 and A350F commitment to 10.

Airbus officials emphasized the strategic complementarity between the two companies, noting that the A330neo and A350 families provide notable fuel efficiency, reduced carbon emissions, and extensive range capabilities.

The A350 is capable of covering up to 9,700 nautical miles, offering reduced operational costs due to its advanced design, lightweight materials, and powerful Rolls-Royce engines.

The A330neo is similarly efficient, making it suitable for medium and long-haul operations with its range of up to 8,100 nautical miles.

Etihad is actively evaluating sustainable aviation fuel options. Currently, both aircraft families can utilize up to 50 percent SAF, with a goal of achieving 100 percent compatibility by 2030.

Technical Aspects of the A350F and A330neo

The A350F features the largest main deck cargo door in the industry, optimized for standard container dimensions to maximize freight capacity. It will also be the only freighter to comply with ICAO’s upcoming enhanced CO2 regulations set for 2027. The assembly of the test aircraft is currently in progress in Toulouse.

Powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, the A330neo boasts the Airspace cabin designed for improved comfort, lighting, and amenities. Additionally, it promises up to 25 percent reductions in fuel consumption and emissions compared to earlier models.

flydubai’s Airbus Order and Starlink Collaboration

Flydubai marked its largest fleet transformation since its inception by ordering 150 A321 aircraft. Previously, the airline operated exclusively Boeing models, like the 737-800, 737 MAX, and upcoming 787-9.

This new order positions flydubai for extensive regional growth with a high-capacity narrowbody aircraft suitable for longer journeys.

Additionally, the airline has partnered with SpaceX to enhance its Boeing 737 fleet with Starlink’s high-speed internet service. The plan includes installations for 100 aircraft by 2026, enabling streaming, video calls, and real-time services in over 100 destinations.

Onboard connectivity has been identified as a crucial aspect of the airline’s customer experience strategy. Starlink’s quick installation timeline allows flydubai to expedite its rollout while maintaining quality broadband services across its operations.

Current Airbus Order Statistics

As of October 2025, the A350 family boasts over 1,400 orders from 64 distinct customers, while the A330 family has exceeded 1,900 orders from more than 130 global operators.

The demand for modern widebody aircraft continues to grow as airlines shift towards more efficient long-haul operations.