By Samuel Ssenono
Dubai Airshow 2025 delivered one of its most consequential editions yet, with headline aircraft orders, fleet expansions, and next-generation aerospace technology dominating days two and three.
The biggest announcement came from flydubai, which placed its first-ever order with Airbus 150 A321neo aircraft with options for 100 more, a package valued at US$24 billion. Deliveries begin in 2031, and this will be a major shift in the airline’s fleet strategy.
Etihad Airways confirmed a wide-body expansion that includes six A330-900s, seven additional A350-1000s, three A350F freighters, and a lease of nine A330-900s from Avolon. Emirates added eight more A350-900s worth US$3.4 billion, while Ethiopian Airlines ordered six A350-900s, joining the growing list of African carriers modernizing their long-haul fleets.
Other signings included commitments from Air Europa and Buraq Air, alongside new technology partnerships with entities such as the Technology Innovation Institute, Aspire, Strata, and Mubadala.
Boeing also secured fresh business, with flydubai ordering 75 additional 737 MAX jets and Gulf Air confirming 15 Boeing 787 Dreamliners with options for three more. South Africa’s FlySafair signed leases for five Boeing 737 family aircraft a mix of MAX and NG models as it strengthens its regional footprint.
The defence segment was equally active. EDGE Group unveiled 42 new products and solutions, including the OMEN VTOL developed with US firm Anduril. The company also announced a cooperation agreement with Indonesia’s Republikorp, paving the way for a US$7 billion contract its largest international deal to date. Additional agreements with Korea Aerospace Industries, L3Harris, Indra, and Leonardo further expanded its global portfolio.
Tawazun Council, representing the UAE Ministry of Defence and Abu Dhabi Police, announced 20 contracts worth AED 18.016 billion in the first three days. The agreements covered defence systems, security technologies, and aviation support, reinforcing the UAE’s push to localize critical capabilities.
Away from the signing tables, the Airshow introduced a new evening program Airshow After Dark. Hundreds of drones illuminated the runway with formations of hydrogen aircraft, rockets, and spacecraft, celebrating the show’s “Future Is Here” theme.
