- Looming Emirates 777X deal to kickstart Dubai Airshow, sources say

Middle East carriers are expected to place orders for long-haul jets worth tens of billions of dollars at the Dubai Airshow. Despite concerns about the impact of Mideast tensions on the travel sector, Emirates and flyDubai are likely to make a strong impression at the event. Emirates is considering ordering several dozen Boeing 777X jets, despite the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the delivery schedule. The airline is also considering the Airbus A350 and smaller Boeing 787 for its fleet. FlyDubai, on the other hand, is expected to order more Boeing 737 MAX narrowbody jets. The exact number of orders will depend on negotiations and competition among Gulf groups. Turkish Airlines has also emerged as a potential buyer, with talks of purchasing up to 355 Airbus jets. However, speculation about a large order from Saudi Arabia’s Riyadh Air is premature. The Dubai Airshow is taking place against the backdrop of the Israel-Hamas war, which has affected flight bookings in the region.