Flydubai carries 137 million passengers over 17 years of operations
Airline expands to more than 140 destinations across 58 countries as it continues steady growth
Dubai: Over the 17 years since its launch in 2009, flydubai has transformed its ambitious vision into a notable success story in the aviation sector, transporting more than 137 million passengers and expanding its network to more than 140 destinations in 58 countries, strengthening its position as one of the most prominent airlines in the region.
Since commencing operations in June 2009, flydubai has adopted an ambitious vision based on removing barriers to travel and providing easier and more efficient air transport options. This approach has enabled it to build a wide network of destinations and connect emerging markets and underserved areas directly to Dubai.
Over 17 years of continuous growth, the carrier has enhanced air connectivity between Dubai and regional and global markets. It has launched more than 100 destinations that previously did not have direct flights to Dubai or were not served by a UAE national airline, supporting trade and tourism and strengthening economic and cultural ties between countries and communities.
Last year, flydubai operated approximately 126,604 flights and took delivery of 12 new Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, bringing its total fleet to 97 aircraft with an average age of 5.5 years. The airline also retired three next-generation Boeing 737-800 aircraft and returned them to leasing companies.
It upgraded eight next-generation Boeing 737-800 aircraft, bringing the total number of upgraded aircraft in the fleet to 25 by the end of last year. This forms part of the airline’s ongoing efforts to enhance service consistency and provide a more comfortable travel experience for passengers in both business and economy classes.
The airline concluded the year with a strong presence at the Dubai Airshow, where it announced orders for new aircraft, including 150 Airbus A321neo and 75 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. This strategic addition will diversify the company’s single-aisle fleet and reinforce its long-term strategy.
During 2025, the company signed 11 new airline connectivity agreements, expanding its portfolio to more than 42 partners and providing customers with access to more than 300 destinations across flydubai’s and its partners’ networks. This includes three codeshare agreements with Air Canada, Emirates and United Airlines.
As it continued to attract diverse talent through ongoing recruitment campaigns, the company’s workforce grew by 11%, reaching a total of 6,763 employees. Flydubai also strengthened its internal capabilities by launching a pilot training programme for beginners and a vocational training programme in aircraft maintenance and engineering.
Flydubai has played a vital role in supporting the economic strategy of Dubai and the UAE by enhancing air connectivity with regional and international markets and supporting the tourism, trade and logistics sectors. It has also contributed to establishing Dubai Airport as a global hub for air travel and transport.
As it enters its eighteenth year, flydubai continues its growth and expansion, building on a strong track record and a forward-looking vision focused on innovation, expanding its network of destinations and delivering an advanced travel experience that meets the aspirations of millions of travellers.