flydubai plans to double fleet in 2010, triple by 2012

flydubai CEO, Ghaith Al Ghaith, announced plans to double the carrier's fleet size by the end of 2010 and triple it by 2012 (Khaleej Times, 29-Mar-2010). The carrier currently operates seven B737-800 aircraft, with a further six deliveries of the same aircraft type due by the end of 2010 and eight per year up to 2016.

flydubai: "We aim to double our size by 2010 and triple it by 2012, leveraging Dubai's strong competitive advantage. We will take delivery of six Boeing 737-800 aircraft in 2010 and eight planes will be added each year through 2016. We spent USD4 billion in an historic order for 50 Boeing 737-800 aircraft in July 2008. The Boeing 737 is the safest aircraft flying today and it has been around for more than 40 years. A fleet of brand new 737s means lower maintenance costs for flydubai and increased confidence, security and safety for our passengers…We are not scared about competition. Competition is good. It will bring more benefits to the customers…All our aircraft are new. They are more environment-friendly. The most advanced equipment in our aircraft ensure low fuel consumption and carbon emission," Ghaith Al Ghaith, CEO. Source: Khaleej Times, 29-Mar-2010.