The Dubai Airshow 2025 opened yesterday under the blazing desert sun, but the heat did not stop thousands of visitors, exhibitors and delegations from gathering at Al Maktoum International Airport. This year’s edition is shaping up to be one of the most transformative yet, blending jaw-dropping aerobatics with game-changing announcements that signal the next era of aviation.
Opening Day Highlights
The show began with a spectacular UAE Air Force formation flypast, followed by Fursan Al Emarat’s precision aerobatic display in their newly re-equipped Hongdu L-15 advanced jet trainers from China. This upgrade marks a significant shift in the team’s capabilities and drew plenty of attention from spectators and analysts.
Then came a historic moment: Joby Aviation’s electric air taxi became the first eVTOL aircraft to fly at a major international airshow. The demonstration featured silent climbs, smooth banking turns and a static hover, giving spectators a glimpse of urban air mobility’s future. Joby also confirmed plans for four vertiports in Dubai at DXB, Dubai Mall Zabeel, Atlantis The Royal and American University of Dubai ahead of a 2026 commercial launch. The aircraft can carry four passengers plus a pilot, reach 320 km/h and cover 160 km on a single charge, all with zero emissions and minimal noise. Learn more about eVTOL technology.
Flying Displays That Stole the Show
The skies over Dubai roared with power and precision. Visitors witnessed Boeing 777X showcasing its advanced aerodynamics, the F-35 Lightning II and B-52 Stratofortress flypasts, and a mix of military and commercial aircraft including Indian Air Force’s Suryakiran Aerobatic Display Team, Rafale, Sukhoi Su-57, Airbus A350 and COMAC C919.
Major Announcements and Deals:
Emirates Places $38 Billion Boeing 777X Order
Dubai’s hometown carrier stunned the industry with a $38 billion order for 65 Boeing 777-9 aircraft powered by GE9X engines. This brings Emirates’ total 777X backlog to 270 jets alongside 10 777 freighters and 35 787 Dreamliners and a staggering 540 GE9X engines.
Key points:
- First deliveries expected Q2 2027 with Boeing deliveries stretching into the late 2030s.
- Emirates backs Boeing’s feasibility study for the 777-10 stretch variant with options to convert part of the order.
- The 777-9 will be the largest twin-engine aircraft offering 20 percent lower fuel burn and enhanced passenger comfort.
Explore Boeing 777X specifications.
Ethiopian Airlines Adds 11 Boeing 737 MAX Jets
Africa’s largest carrier firmed up an order for 11 Boeing 737-8 aircraft strengthening its Addis Ababa hub and expanding routes across Africa, the Middle East, India and Southern Europe. This move aligns with Ethiopian’s 2040 growth strategy which includes network expansion and sustainability goals.
Discover Boeing 737 MAX features.
Embraer Secures Dual Regional Jet Deals
Brazilian manufacturer Embraer announced two significant wins:
- Air Côte d’Ivoire: Four E175s with options for eight more configured with 76 seats (12 Business, 64 Economy). Deliveries start in 2027.
- Helvetic Airways: Three E195-E2s plus five purchase rights configured with 134 seats. Deliveries begin in 2026 supporting Helvetic’s ACMI and European network operations.
Read more about Embraer E2 family.
Why This Matters
Day one of the Dubai Airshow was not just about aerobatics. It was a blueprint for aviation’s future. From Emirates’ mega widebody order to Joby’s quiet revolution in electric flight the industry is pivoting toward efficiency sustainability and advanced mobility. Whether it is ultra-long-haul giants or nimble regional jets the message is clear: aviation is entering a transformative decade.
