Flydubai may place a large order with Boeing.

Flydubai has joined one of the biggest rivalries in the aviation world, and Boeing (NYSE:BA) may be lining up for a significant narrow-body aircraft order. According to sources familiar with the discussions, the state-backed carrier is considering a deal for 200 aircraft, along with 100 additional options, with the announcement expected at the Dubai Airshow. Flydubai has exclusively operated Boeing aircraft in its 17-year history, but ongoing delays in 737 deliveries may have forced the airline to consider alternatives.

This hesitation has opened an unprecedented narrow window for Airbus. CEO Ghaith Al Ghaith has traveled to Toulouse for pricing and sizing discussions, marking one of the most serious talks the airline has had with the European manufacturer. Discussions are still ongoing, and Flydubai has stated that it continues to review its fleet and is in talks with multiple partners. The outcome could be a clean re-order with Boeing or a split deal that could see Airbus feature in the carrier's fleet for the first time, particularly since previous Airbus talks had come close but stalled at the last minute.

On the other hand, the aviation transactions in the Gulf region do not end here. Etihad is in separate discussions for around 40 wide-body aircraft and may announce less than 10 A330 aircraft. Flydubai has recorded a record profit for 2024 and is taking steps to offer more premium services beyond its low-cost roots. Both aircraft manufacturers are entering the Dubai Airshow with a strong desire to gain momentum, making it a period where long-standing delivery delays, growth targets, and competition in new aircraft orders may clash.