A big order from Flydubai to Boeing may be coming.

Flydubai has entered one of the biggest rivalries in the aviation world, and Boeing (NYSE:BA) may line 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 an additional 100 options, with the announcement expected at the Dubai Airshow. Flydubai has exclusively operated Boeing aircraft throughout its 17-year history, but ongoing delays in 737 deliveries may have forced the airline to explore alternatives.

This hesitation has opened a previously unexplored narrow window for Airbus. CEO Ghaith Al Ghaith traveled to Toulouse for pricing and sizing discussions, marking one of the most serious discussions the airline has had with the European manufacturer. The talks are still ongoing, and Flydubai indicated that it continues to review its fleet and engage with multiple partners. The outcome could be a clean re-order with Boeing or a split deal that may see Airbus join the fleet for the first time, especially as previous Airbus negotiations had come quite close but ultimately stalled at the last moment.

Meanwhile, aviation dealings in the Gulf region are not stopping here. Etihad is in separate discussions for around 40 wide-body aircraft and may announce fewer than 10 A330 aircraft. Flydubai, meanwhile, achieved a record profit in 2024 and is taking steps to offer more premium services beyond its low-cost roots. Both aircraft manufacturers entering the Dubai Airshow with a desire to gain momentum could result in a period where long-standing delivery delays, growth ambitions, and competition collide in a new wave of aircraft orders.