ASIM, Nov 18
The 2025 Dubai Airshow opened as its largest edition yet, bringing together global industry leaders at Dubai World Central to shape the future of aerospace, defence, and space. With expanded exhibition space and strong international participation, the event showcased next-generation technologies focused on efficiency, sustainability, and advanced mobility. Day one featured major announcements underscoring the strength of the aviation sector and the growing demand for air travel.
Significant commercial deals highlighted the first day, including Emirates’ US$38 billion order for 65 Boeing 777-9 aircraft and Ethiopian Airlines’ purchase of 11 additional 737 MAX jets. Other agreements included Boeing’s extended pilot-training partnership with TAAG Angola Airlines, Embraer’s support deal for Airlink’s new E195-E2 fleet, and flydubai’s order for 60 GEnx-1B engines to power its future 787-9 operations. Airbus Helicopters also welcomed Bristow Group as a new H160 operator, and the UAE’s Tawazun Council announced eight contracts worth AED 3.766 billion.
Advanced Air Mobility and space innovation were key themes, with Joby Aviation’s eVTOL aircraft marking a historic electric vertical take-off and the event’s largest-ever Space Pavilion hosting global experts and astronauts. With more than 1,500 exhibitors, 21 national pavilions, and hundreds of delegations, the Airshow set the stage for further transformative announcements as global leaders converge to define the next era of aerospace.
