Flydubai confirms Boeing 737-10 under consideration after FAA certification

Flydubai stated on 25 October 2026 that the Boeing 737-10 remains under consideration for its long-term fleet development strategy following the aircraft's certification by the US Federal Aviation Administration. The carrier operates 98 Boeing 737 aircraft as of October 2026, comprising 25 Next-Generation 737-800s, 69 737 MAX 8s and four 737 MAX 9s, according to information published on its website. The airline signed a memorandum of understanding with Boeing in November 2025 for 75 firm 737 MAX aircraft valued at USD 13 billion, with options for 75 additional units.

Boeing 737-10 certification and fleet evaluation#

The 737-10 received FAA certification in October 2026 after delays dating to its 2017 launch. The aircraft seats 185 to 210 passengers and has a range of 3,100 nautical miles or 5,740 kilometres, according to Boeing's published specifications. Boeing states the variant offers a 20 percent reduction in carbon dioxide emissions and fuel consumption compared with previous models. Airlines have ordered 7,350 737 MAX aircraft to date, with Boeing delivering nearly 2,500 units as of September 2026, the manufacturer reported. Flydubai said it continuously evaluates opportunities to diversify its fleet to support network development and operational requirements.

Cabin retrofit programme for 21 aircraft#

Flydubai announced on 15 September 2026 a cabin retrofit programme to install lie-flat business class seats in 21 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft currently fitted with reclining seats. The programme will be completed over 12 months, the airline stated. The retrofit replaces reclining business class seats with lie-flat configurations that convert to fully flat beds. The airline already operates lie-flat business class seats on parts of its fleet, and the programme extends availability to additional aircraft. Passengers should verify the aircraft assigned to their flight when selecting business class, as cabin configurations will vary during the rollout, the airline noted.

Overhead storage capacity expansion#

The retrofit includes installation of Boeing Space Bins, replacing existing overhead storage compartments on the 21 aircraft. The upgraded bins accommodate up to six standard cabin bags compared with approximately four in conventional overhead bins, according to the airline's announcement. The larger bins are intended to provide additional storage capacity and reduce pressure on overhead compartments during boarding. The upgrade forms part of the same programme as the business class seat replacement.

Network application and operational deployment#

The retrofitted aircraft will serve the airline's network based on operational requirements and customer demand rather than being limited to specific routes, flydubai stated. The carrier operates services from Dubai to destinations across the Middle East, South Asia, Europe and other international markets. The airline said it will announce updates through official channels once confirmed.