Flydubai has taken a major step toward its entry into long-haul travel, announcing on Monday that it has ordered 60 GEnx-1B engines for its upcoming fleet of Boeing 787-9 aircraft. The deal, signed with GE Aerospace on the opening day of the Dubai Airshow 2025, includes spare engines and a long-term services agreement. The value of the order has not been disclosed.
The agreement supports flydubai’s first move into wide-body operations. The Dubai-based carrier confirmed its order for 30 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners at the 2023 Dubai Airshow, marking a strategic shift from its current fleet of all-Boeing 737 aircraft. The addition of the fuel-efficient 787s will position the airline to expand internationally and introduce long-haul routes.
Ghaith Al Ghaith, CEO of flydubai, said the decision to partner with GE Aerospace is critical as the airline prepares for a new phase of growth. “The performance and durability of our engines play an integral role in the success of our operations and fleet expansion plans, especially as we prepare to welcome the Boeing 787 aircraft to our fleet in the coming years,” he said.
The carrier’s plans, however, have faced challenges. In mid-2024, Al Ghaith acknowledged that expansion targets had been affected by updated Boeing delivery timelines, as the manufacturer continues to work through production delays. The new engine order signals flydubai’s intention to keep future growth on track despite the disruptions.
GE Aerospace executives described the agreement as a significant step in the partnership between the two companies. Russell Stokes, president and CEO of commercial engines and services, said the GEnx-1B will support flydubai’s shift into wide-body operations. “The GEnx engines will deliver reliability, efficiency, and durability to power the airline’s first widebody fleet. We are excited to help propel flydubai’s expansion plans,” he said.
The GEnx family is one of GE’s most widely used engine lines for long-haul jets. Since entering service in 2011, the engine series has accumulated more than 62 million flight hours, making it one of the manufacturer’s fastest growing programs.
Flydubai’s move to introduce the Dreamliner marks one of the most significant milestones in its 15-year history. The airline, which has built a strong regional network from Dubai International Airport, is now aiming to broaden its global footprint. With the engine deal signed, the focus shifts to when the first 787s will be delivered and how soon flydubai will begin its planned long-haul services.
