If Day 1 of the Dubai Air Show was dominated by Boeing headlines, Airbus is biting back, hard, with a lot of commitments, orders, and even defections announced.
Welcome to the Dubai Air Show Digest, Day 2.
Airbus
It seems that Airbus remembered it was at an air show, with lots appearing in the order book. Time to dive in.
flyDubai goes A321neo
flydubai has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus for 150 A321neo aircraft, making the airline a new Airbus customer, diverting orders away from Boeing.
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of flydubai, signed the MoU agreement with Christian Scherer, CEO Commercial Aircraft at Airbus, at the signing ceremony, which was attended by Ghaith Al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer at flydubai, on the second day of the Dubai Airshow 2025.
The addition of the latest generation A321neo will support flydubai’s strategy to expand its network, offering customers access to new destinations with greater efficiency and comfort.
In Quotes
His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and CEO of flydubai, said:
“We are pleased to announce a landmark agreement for 150 A321neo aircraft, representing another important milestone in flydubai’s journey. This new agreement is not only about adding aircraft. It supports the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai and aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33,”
“This strategic addition diversifies our narrow-body fleet and strengthens our long-term expansion plans. This will enable flydubai to play a key role in the success of Dubai World Central’s expansion plans, an airport we aim to become the largest airport in the world.”
“The A321neos will support the next phase of our network development and enable us to meet rising demand across our markets. We look forward to establishing a strong and enduring partnership between flydubai and Airbus.”
Christian Scherer, CEO Commercial Aircraft at Airbus.
“We welcome flydubai, one of the Middle East’s most ambitious and fast-growing carriers, as a new Airbus customer,” said
“The decision to invest in and introduce the A321neo into its fleet is another endorsement of the added value Airbus brings in terms of range, efficiency and passenger comfort. We look forward to supporting flydubai as it enables new growth and possibilities with our aircraft.”
Etihad goes wide, adding the A330neo, as well as other widebodies
Etihad Airways has announced a significant expansion of its Airbus widebody fleet by placing a firm order for six A330-900s, becoming the latest A330neo customer. In addition, the airline has disclosed an order for seven additional A350-1000s (increasing its total for the type to 27) and three A350F (bringing the airline’s A350F commitment to 10 aircraft).
The agreement was signed at the Dubai Airshow, where Etihad Airways also announced the commitment of nine A330-900s on lease from Avolon, bringing their total to 15 A330neo.
In Quotes
Antonoaldo Neves, Etihad Airways CEO, said:
“These aircraft strengthen our operations across medium-haul, long-haul, and cargo. The A330neo brings the right combination of efficiency and flexibility for our regional and mid-range growth, while the A350-1000 continues to deliver exceptional performance on our long-haul network. The A350F freighter adds significant capability to our cargo division as global demand continues to expand. Our partnership with Airbus continues to play an important role in shaping our future fleet, and we are proud to be building one of the world’s most modern and efficient widebody operations.”
Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, adds:
“Etihad Airways’ continued investment in our latest-generation widebody aircraft is a testament to the strength of our partnership and the shared vision we have for the future of aviation in the UAE and beyond,”
“The combination of the A350 Family and A330neo will deliver unmatched efficiency and flexibility to Etihad’s operations, supporting its future development.”
Air Europa to switch from Boeing to Airbus, signs MoU for 40 A350-900s
Spanish airline Air Europa has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Airbus for up to 40 A350-900 aircraft. The agreement forms the backbone of Air Europa’s long-haul fleet replacement and was announced during the Dubai Airshow.
The introduction of the A350 will accelerate the renewal of Air Europa’s existing Boeing 787 fleet (787-8 and 787-) fleet and boost profitable growth to key markets in Latin America.
In Quotes
Juan Jose Hidalgo, President of Air Europa, said:
“This order is a strategic milestone in Air Europa’s fleet development, accelerating its profitable growth by renewal of the current widebody fleet,”
“The A350-900 is a game-changer for key destinations in Latin America. It provides an exceptional cabin experience and the operational performance and economics needed to expand the airline’s network without compromise, delivering the highest standards in air travel.”
Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business, added:
“We are proud to welcome Air Europa into the Airbus A350 family. This order is a strong endorsement of the A350 as the benchmark widebody platform for efficiency and passenger comfort in the long-haul market,” said
“We are committed to supporting Air Europa’s ambitious growth strategy as they leverage the A350’s capabilities for their future long-haul operations.”
Ethiopian Airlines signs for further Airbus A350-900 aircraft
Ethiopian Airlines has placed a firm order for six Airbus A350-900 aircraft, expanding its fleet.
Ethiopian Airlines is an established A350 operator, with 20 A350-900 and four A350-1000 in service.
In Quotes
Mr Mesfin Tasew, Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO, said
“We are delighted to expand our Airbus fleet size with this order and strengthen our partnership with the Airbus company. As the continent’s leading airline and the largest operator of the A350, this milestone order further supports our vision to grow sustainably while providing a world-class travel experience to our passengers and strengthening our position as the aviation leader in Africa.”
Benoit de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business, added:
“We are proud to further deepen our partnership with Ethiopian Airlines, a long-standing Airbus customer and a benchmark for aviation excellence in Africa. The A350’s state-of-the-art technology, efficiency and versatility will bring even greater value to Ethiopian’s operations,”
ATR Aircraft
Ethiopian Airlines Leases Two ATR 72-600 for Air Congo Operations
ATR announced the lease by Ethiopian Airlines of two brand-new ATR 72-600 aircraft, to be operated by 49%-owned Air Congo, the Democratic Republic of Congo’s national carrier. The aircraft are scheduled to enter service in February 2026.
The leasing deal follows the strategic partnership previously announced at the Farnborough International Airshow in July 2024, where ATR and Ethiopian Airlines agreed on a cooperation to develop ATR maintenance capabilities in Ethiopia. This initiative will position Ethiopian Airlines as a regional MRO (Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul) hub for ATR aircraft, serving operators across the continent.
In Quotes
Mesfin Tasew, CEO of Ethiopian Airlines Group, said:
“With the arrival of our new ATRs and the development of our MRO capabilities to support them, Ethiopian Airlines is ready to offer a complete ATR solution, making it easier for airlines in Africa to have choices in serving regional connections across the continent,”
“We are proud to contribute our share in strengthening regional mobility in Africa, and to bring the comfort, convenience and speed of air travel to more communities.”
Mesfin Biru Weldegeorgis, CEO of Air Congo, adds:
“Air Congo is proud to expand its reach across the Democratic Republic of Congo with the introduction of two new ATR 72-600 aircraft, equipped with PW127XT engines. These are the first of their kind in the country, and they will enable us to serve remote airports, enhancing domestic connectivity, stimulating economic development, and strengthening national cohesion.”
Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, CEO of ATR, commented:
“Trust and strong business relationships are built over time. Getting to know ATR better was decisive for Ethiopian Airlines and Air Congo to invest in our platform, and we are proud of the confidence that our partners have placed in us. With a fleet growth of almost 30% in the last three years, ATR is expanding its footprint across Africa, helping recreate a complete ecosystem to support our operators and future prospects in the best possible way. The recent aircraft additions across the region reaffirm that ATRs are perfectly suited to opening new routes and supporting regional growth. Their ability to operate profitably even at lower load factors make them the ideal solution for emerging markets, where affordability and accessibility are essential to unlocking connectivity.”
Boeing
Gulf Air firms up its 787 commitment
Gulf Air announced today that the airline has finalised a firm order for 15 787 Dreamliners with options for three more as the Bahrain-based carrier looks to further develop its international network.
The order adds three Boeing 787s to the airline’s commitment this July and brings Gulf Air’s order book to 17 of the versatile widebody jets. The airline has 10 787s in its fleet currently.
The agreement was signed on the sidelines of the Dubai Airshow by Martin Gauss, chief executive officer of Gulf Air, and Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing.
In Quotes
Khalid Husain Taqi, chairman of Gulf Air Group, said:
“Today’s signing marks a significant advancement in Gulf Air’s long-term fleet development efforts. By confirming our acquisition of the Boeing 787 Dreamliners, we are accelerating our strategy to increase capacity, strengthen long-haul operations, and deliver an elevated, more sustainable travel experience to our passengers,”
“This agreement also builds on the long-established relationship between Gulf Air and Boeing, a partnership that has supported our growth for decades.”
Stephanie Pope, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Aeroplanes, added:
“Gulf Air is taking exciting steps to expand its global footprint and we are honored the airline has confirmed the Boeing 787 Dreamliner as the cornerstone of its fleet today and in the decades ahead. The 787’s superior efficiency and passenger comfort fit perfectly with Gulf Air’s commitment to sustainability and operational excellence,”
FlySafair to take Boeing 737 MAXs from AerCap
AerCap Holdings announced it has signed lease agreements with FlySafair for three new Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, which are scheduled for delivery beginning Q1 2028, and two Boeing 737-800NG aircraft, expected to be delivered beginning Q3 2026.
In Quotes
Peter Anderson, the Chief Commercial Officer of AerCap, said:
“We are very pleased to welcome FlySafair as a new customer to AerCap, and to support their fleet modernization plan,”
“We thank the team at FlySafair for their partnership and wish them every success as they expand their network to meet growing customer demand.”
Kirby Gordon, Chief Marketing Officer at FlySafai, added:
“We’re thrilled to embark on this next stage of our fleet development with AerCap as we introduce the Boeing 737 MAX to our operations. This partnership represents a meaningful investment in efficiency, sustainability, and passenger experience,”
Anbessie Yitbarek, Vice President Sales and Marketing for Africa, Boeing Commercial Airplanes, concluded:
“The addition of three 737 MAX airplanes marks a significant step in FlySafair’s fleet modernization journey, enabling them to enhance operational efficiency and meet growing demand for air travel,”
“With this agreement, FlySafair will join the more than 80 airlines that fly the 737 MAX to destinations around the world. We appreciate AerCap for facilitating this partnership.”
Etihad to deploy Viasat Amara
Etihad Airways will deploy Viasat’s next-generation connectivity solution, Viasat Amara, across its entire fleet.
Onboard Etihad aircraft, Viasat will power high-speed connectivity that enables guests to access streaming subscriptions on personal devices, to view Live TV on the aircraft seatback IFE screens — providing a variety of news and sports channels for guests’ enjoyment — and to utilise applications for social media scrolling, browsing, shopping, and more.
The expanded agreement will comprise both widebody and narrowbody aircraft, including Etihad’s recently introduced A321LR fleet. All of these aircraft will be equipped with the Viasat Amara solution, enabling fast, consistent connectivity via Viasat‘s global Ka-band satellites, partner satellites, as well as the upcoming LEO partner satellites. Etihad’s new Airbus A321LR fleet, which began commercial service in August 2025, and deliveries of the new A350 fleet from April 2025, are factory-installed with Viasat’s connectivity system.
The Airbus fleet joins the new Boeing 787 Dreamliners, which have been introduced into service since 2023 are also factory-installed with Viasat equipment. The Amara platform opens the path to Multi-Orbit Connectivity with guaranteed quality of service, flexible business models, and a suite of digital products to enable the passenger experience.
In Quotes
Meherwan Polad, Chief Commercial Officer, Viasat Aviation, said:
“Airlines today have a choice: they can opt for a simple connection, or they can invest in a platform that allows for scalability and brand ownership,”
“We’re thrilled that Etihad will benefit from the long-term value of our innovation pipeline, which will bring exceptional inflight Wi-Fi experiences to its guests through multi-orbit capabilities and next-generation hardware for years to come. We look forward to continuing to support Etihad as they continue to turn their ambitious vision for the inflight experience into a reality.”
Arik De, Chief Revenue and Commercial Officer for Etihad, said:
“Our guests expect the same seamless digital experience in the air as they enjoy on the ground. With Viasat’s advanced connectivity across our fleet, travellers can stream their favourite shows, play games, take video calls, catch live sports, stay connected with loved ones, or simply browse and shop at high speed. This partnership also ensures Etihad has access to Viasat’s latest technology as it evolves, keeping us at the forefront of in-flight connectivity. It’s about giving our guests the freedom to enjoy their flight time exactly as they choose.”
Safran Seating
Safran Seating and Emirates announce plans to establish seat manufacturing in Dubai
In a move to bring the seats closer to customers, Emirates and Safran Seating have signed an MoU to establish a manufacturing facility in Dubai. We’ll cover this in depth later.
Emirates selects Safran Seating for 111 aircraft refits
Safran Seats has been selected by Emirates to supply its latest-generation seats to refurbish the interiors of the airline’s Boeing 777-300ER and Airbus A380 aircraft. This represents a combined total of 111 aircraft.
Safran Seats’ S–Lounge seats will be integrated in the airline’s business class cabin for its Boeing 777-300ER and A380s, and its Z400 model for all economy class seats.
The S–Lounge seat incorporates a wireless charger alongside the host of comfort enhancements already featured, such as a premium trim & finish, a mini bar, massage & lumbar support and a tablet personal control unit.
The use of lighter materials and fewer parts means the Z400 economy class seat is now even more lightweight. In addition, it provides extra leg room and a 13.3-inch in-flight entertainment (IFE)
In Quotes
Victoria Foy, CEO of Safran Seats, said:
“We are proud of the longstanding relationship between Emirates and Safran Seats, built over several decades and reinforced by strategic awards in recent years. Our dedicated team, working closely alongside Emirates, allows us to deeply understand and proactively support the airline’s evolving needs. We value the partnership with Emirates and are fully committed to supporting their strategic projects both now and in the future.”
A busy day two
Well, if Day 1 belonged to Boeing, Day 2 has belonged to Airbus, with widebody and single-aisle customers, as well as turning two Boeing customers into Airbus customers, which will no doubt raise some smiles in the Airbus Chalet.
Even suppliers got a big look-in today, from the worlds of connectivity and seating.g
Considering the quietness that was this year at the Paris Air Show and the flurry of orders that have been, thanks to a tour by the US President, there seems to be plenty of orders and memoranda of understanding at this show.
We’ll have to see if the pace can be kept tomorrow.
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