Airbus is reported to be close to a deal with flydubai that could see the Dubai-based airline procure nearly 100 A321neo jets from the European manufacturer.
In an exclusive story, Reuters said Airbus looks set to beat Boeing to the lion’s share of a major jet order at the Dubai Airshow, “which could break its rival’s grip on the fast-growing carrier for the first time.” Flydubai has 175 MAX in its fleet or on order, along with 30 larger Boeing 787s.
Quoting people familiar with the matter, Reuters said flydubai is also in talks for a smaller order of several dozen 737 MAX from Boeing.
Both Airbus and Boeing declined to comment.
The report said a deal by Airbus to penetrate one of the leading global customers for the 737 MAX, which has so far bought exclusively from Boeing.
The airline has previously said it was looking to place its largest-ever aircraft order, suggesting it would purchase more than the 175 MAX planes it ordered in 2017.
Boeing Commercial Airplanes CEO Stephanie Pope said on Sunday it would be focusing mainly on discussions with airlines about its path to recovery from a series of corporate crises, rather than maximising new orders at the show.
