Live Update Dubai Airshow 2025 kicks off with record global participation

Emirates Engineering secures UAE’s first major design modification approval

DUBAI – Emirates Engineering has become the first organisation in the UAE to receive Design Organisation Approval (DOA) from the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) for major aircraft modifications through Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs).

The milestone enables the GCAA to directly review and certify major design work, paving the way for increased national engineering capabilities and signifying a shift in the UAE’s aviation regulatory landscape.

In a significant step for local aviation self-sufficiency, Emirates Engineering now holds authorisation to carry out major modifications, including cabin reconfigurations and complex structural updates, without reliance on external original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) or third-party design firms. The approval applies to both Airbus and Boeing aircraft, providing Emirates with flexibility across its wide-ranging fleet.

Expanded capability

Adel Al Redha, Emirates Deputy President and Chief Operating Officer, said that the approval fundamentally changes Emirates Engineering’s approach to aircraft design and modification. He said that in-house certification gives the airline greater control over development timelines, costs, and specification standards. He added that the certification aligns with Emirates’ expansion at Dubai World Central (DWC), where engineering operations will increasingly rely on this advanced design capability.

Eng. Aqeel Al Zarooni, Assistant Director General for Aviation Safety Affairs at the GCAA, said the accreditation marks a major advancement for the UAE’s engineering ecosystem. He highlighted that the approval supports the development of local design solutions to international standards while enhancing the competitiveness of the national aviation sector.

Strengthening UAE’s aviation hub

The certification elevates Emirates Engineering’s existing minor modification authority to include extensive work on aircraft interiors, structures, and systems. This capability positions Emirates among a select group of airlines worldwide able to design, certify, and oversee major modifications internally. It also contributes to the UAE’s growing reputation as a hub for advanced aerospace engineering and manufacturing.

To secure the DOA certification, Emirates Engineering has expanded its design organisation over the past six months, recruiting specialised engineers and upgrading its processes to meet rigorous regulatory requirements. The team is growing from five design personnel to over thirteen specialists, with further expansion planned.

Retrofit programme

The enhanced approval directly supports Emirates’ ambitious fleet refurbishment programme, targeting its Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 aircraft. The new capabilities allow the airline to better manage modification schedules, reduce reliance on external entities, and accelerate the rollout of upgraded cabin products.

The approval also bolsters long-term innovation goals, including future parts manufacturing and localised production of certified components. Emirates Engineering will be able to develop intellectual property for parts and systems that could be produced in-house or with local partners.

Ras Al Khaimah International Airport to launch new VVIP terminal and jet hangar

DUBAI – The Ras Al Khaimah International Airport is set to develop a state-of-the-art VVIP terminal and private jet hangar in partnership with Falcon Executive Aviation, part of Alex Group Investment.

The announcement was made during the Dubai Airshow, reflecting the emirate’s growing ambition as a global tourism and entertainment hub. The development aims to provide a premium gateway for high-profile travellers visiting the Northern Emirates, including the upcoming $3.9-billion Wynn Al Marjan Island resort.

The new facility will include a 1,500-square-metre terminal, an 8,000-square-metre multi-purpose hangar, and 9,000 square metres of apron and aircraft parking space. Its location, just 15 minutes from RAK’s main beach resorts, positions it as a convenient entry point for luxury tourism and private aviation.

https://www.travelsdubai.com/19-Nov-2025/say-goodbye-queues-check-in-free-travel-coming-hand-baggage-flyers-dubai-airports

Luxury facilities

The VVIP terminal will feature a Royal lounge, four VVIP lounges, and premium hospitality areas designed for discreet, high-profile travellers. Airside facilities will include a helipad, ample aircraft parking, and allocated space for emerging vertical mobility solutions. The hangar complex will accommodate a range of private jets, including ultra-long-range aircraft, while offering maintenance and operational services in line with international aviation standards.

Sheikh Salem bin Sultan bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Chairman of Ras Al Khaimah’s Department of Civil Aviation and RAK International Airport, said the development significantly strengthens the emirate’s aviation infrastructure. It will enhance its capacity to attract high-value visitors, investors, and partners, while supporting sustainable tourism growth.

Private aviation

Sultan Rashit Abdulla Rashit Al Shene, Founder and Chairman of Alex Group Investment, stated that the expansion aligns with the group’s strategy to enhance private aviation across the UAE. He highlighted that the facility complements their existing operations at Dubai Al Maktoum’s VIP terminal, combining luxury, operational efficiency, and sustainable design.

The terminal will offer the Falcon Signature Experience, emphasising privacy, efficiency, and personalised services. The hangar will be fully equipped to handle a broad spectrum of private aircraft operations, providing long-term support for Ras Al Khaimah’s growing aviation sector.

https://www.travelsdubai.com/08-Oct-2025/dxb-s-future-takes-flight-dubai-moves-new-al-maktoum-airport

Focus on sustainability

Sustainability is central to the project, with the terminal and hangars designed to achieve LEED Gold certification. The development will offset 35 percent of energy consumption via solar power, employ fully electric ground support equipment, and support sustainable aviation fuel usage, contributing to net-zero operational emissions.

Construction is expected to take 15 months, with the new VVIP terminal and hangar scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2027. The project represents a major investment in the emirate’s economic diversification, tourism appeal, and global profile.

https://www.travelsdubai.com/29-Aug-2025/pakistan-approves-uae-takeover-of-islamabad-airport-operations

Emirates expands Airbus A350-900 order to 73 aircraft in US$3.4bn deal

DUBAI – Emirates has confirmed an order for eight additional Airbus A350-900 aircraft worth US$ 3.4 billion at the Dubai Airshow 2025, further strengthening its long-haul fleet strategy.

Powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB84 engines, this order expands Emirates’ total A350-900 commitment to 73 units. The airline has already taken delivery of 13 A350 aircraft, which began entering service in November last year.

The newly ordered aircraft are expected to be delivered in 2031, supporting Emirates’ strategy to enhance its capacity and introduce advanced inflight products to more global passengers. The A350 has allowed the airline to introduce its Premium Economy seats across more routes, while offering improved operational efficiency.

https://www.travelsdubai.com/18-Nov-2025/etihad-expands-long-haul-capacity-major-airbus-order-dubai-airshow-2025

Fleet expansion

HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive, Emirates Airline and Group, highlighted the significance of the investment, saying the A350 has added valuable additional capacity and new product offerings. He also emphasised that with the additional Boeing 777-9 order announced earlier in the week, Emirates now has a total of 375 of the latest wide-body aircraft on its orderbook.

This combined commitment at the Dubai Airshow 2025 now stands at US$ 41.4 billion at list prices, marking one of the largest investments made by an airline at the event.

https://www.travelsdubai.com/18-Nov-2025/emirates-upgrade-111-planes-next-generation-cabins-starlink-wi-fi

Emirates-Airbus partnership

Benoît de Saint-Exupéry of Airbus expressed his appreciation for Emirates’ continued confidence in the A350, describing it as a benchmark-setting aircraft for long-haul travel. Rolls-Royce also reinforced its long-standing partnership with Emirates, noting the exceptional durability and fuel efficiency of the Trent XWB-84 engine, which has been powering the A350-900 for ten years.

Emirates’ A350 orderbook continues to support tens of thousands of skilled jobs across European aerospace supply chains, extending beyond France, Germany, the UK and Spain to partner countries involved in manufacturing and component production.

The airline’s long-term investment in next-generation aircraft aligns with its expansion plans, contributing to aviation growth, value creation and enhanced passenger experiences.

https://www.travelsdubai.com/18-Nov-2025/flydubai-signs-dollar-24-billion-deal-150-airbus-a321neos-dubai-airshow

flydubai and SpaceX seal deal to transform inflight connectivity with Starlink

DUBAI – flydubai has unveiled a landmark agreement with SpaceX to equip its fleet with Starlink, introducing complimentary, high-speed inflight internet from 2026.

The announcement took place at the Dubai Airshow 2025, reinforcing the carrier’s commitment to innovation and enhancing customer experience. The service will offer low-latency broadband capable of supporting streaming, gaming, video calls and productivity tools, bringing a home-like connectivity experience to passengers in the skies.

Under the agreement, Starlink will become the exclusive inflight connectivity provider for flydubai’s Boeing 737 aircraft, with installations planned for 100 aircraft in 2026. The solution aims to deliver uninterrupted, high-bandwidth coverage across the airline’s network of more than 100 destinations.

Next-level connectivity

Ghaith Al Ghaith, Chief Executive Officer at flydubai, said the partnership marks a major milestone for the airline as it continues to invest in technologies that elevate the travel experience. He highlighted that reliable internet access has become essential for today’s travellers, and this move aligns with flydubai’s strategy of expanding its fleet and route network while prioritising innovation.

Chad Gibbs, Vice President of Starlink Business Operations at SpaceX, said the next-generation service is designed to provide speeds and performance comparable to home internet, with seamless connectivity throughout every phase of the flight. Starlink’s rapidly evolving satellite constellation allows for installation times measured in hours, ensuring quick deployment across the fleet.

https://www.travelsdubai.com/18-Nov-2025/emirates-upgrade-111-planes-next-generation-cabins-starlink-wi-fi

Enhanced digital experience

Passengers will enjoy real-time digital services including HD streaming and online gaming, supported by Starlink’s growing global capacity. The service promises the lowest latencies and highest speeds currently available in commercial aviation, giving customers uninterrupted access to entertainment, business tools and communication platforms.

Daniel Kerrison, Senior Vice President of Inflight Operations at flydubai, noted that fast, free internet will not only redefine the inflight experience for travellers but will also provide crew members with real-time operational data to further enhance service delivery. He added that Dubai’s reputation as a hub of innovation and hospitality is reflected in this strategic partnership.

With Starlink now on board, flydubai joins a select group of international airlines adopting advanced inflight WiFi solutions.

https://www.travelsdubai.com/24-Oct-2024/qatar-airways-starts-using-elon-musk-s-high-speed-internet-in-historic-first

Emirates to upgrade 111 planes with next-generation cabins and Starlink Wi-Fi

DUBAI – Emirates is set to enter the next phase of its fleet retrofit programme, with 60 A380s and 51 Boeing 777s scheduled to receive extensive upgrades starting August 2026.

The move includes the introduction of advanced cabin products, a fully immersive in-flight entertainment system, and fleet-wide Starlink connectivity, further modernising the airline’s long-haul operations.

Emirates Engineering will work closely with partners including Airbus, Safran, Recaro, Panasonic, Starlink, and UUDS to deliver the enhancements, which feature the latest seating designs, a refreshed onboard lounge for the A380s, and Panasonic’s Astrova inflight entertainment system. The initiative is part of Emirates’ long-term commitment to passenger comfort, privacy, and consistency across its fleet.

Sir Tim Clark, President of Emirates Airline, emphasised: “Our retrofit programme is about continuously elevating standards. We are taking our commitment further with next-generation innovations in seating, entertainment, and connectivity. Customers expect excellence every time they fly Emirates, and this investment ensures we deliver on that promise.”

Premium seating

Business Class across both aircraft types will feature Emirates’ latest-generation seats, inspired by Safran’s S Lounge design on the A350 fleet. Each seat offers enhanced privacy, wireless device charging integrated into the cocktail table, customisable lighting, minibar amenities, and multiple USB-C and wireless charging options.

Premium Economy seats, built by Recaro, combine mechanical recline systems, leather upholstery, adjustable headrests, and integrated leg and footrests. Each cabin includes a side cocktail table and a 13.3-inch entertainment screen, balancing value and luxury for long-haul passengers.

Economy Class will benefit from lightweight Safran Z400 seats, designed for long-haul comfort with eight-way adjustable headrests and thoughtful tech integrations. These enhancements aim to improve comfort, convenience, and ergonomics throughout the cabin.

Entertainment upgrades

Emirates has selected Panasonic Avionics to implement the Astrova platform, delivering a next-generation IFE experience. Customers will enjoy 4K OLED HDR10+ displays, vivid colours, perfect contrast, and immersive Spatial Audio, compatible with both Emirates headsets and personal Bluetooth devices.

Each seat offers 67W USB-C charging, while the system’s modular design allows independent upgrades to displays, power, and connectivity. Panasonic’s Arc 3D 4K Moving Map enhances flight tracking, and a personalised recommendation engine integrated with Emirates Skywards ensures curated content for every passenger.

Enhanced connectivity

Fleet-wide Starlink connectivity will be installed alongside the cabin retrofits, providing high-speed internet across both A380 and Boeing 777 aircraft. The coordinated rollout ensures minimal downtime while delivering a seamless digital experience across Emirates’ global network.

Since the programme’s launch in 2021, Emirates has refurbished 76 aircraft, with A380 upgrades taking roughly 22 days and Boeing 777 retrofits 18 days. The schedule maintains a cadence of two freshly upgraded aircraft emerging monthly, expanding the modernised experience to more long-haul routes worldwide.

Sheikh Hamdan reviews UAE-built Calidus B-250 at Dubai Airshow

DUBAI – His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, reviewed the UAE-made Calidus B-250 aircraft at the 19th edition of the Dubai Airshow.

The event, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, marks the largest edition in its history, bringing together more than 1,500 exhibitors from the UAE, the region and across the world.

Sheikh Hamdan said the UAE continues to strengthen its position as a global hub for developing advanced defence industries and solutions, noting that excellence in this sector plays a vital role in protecting national achievements and ensuring long-term security. He emphasised that investment in local defence manufacturing represents an investment in the country’s future.

UAE-made Calidus B-250

During his tour of the exhibition, Sheikh Hamdan was briefed on the B-250, a light multirole combat aircraft designed for close air support, surveillance and reconnaissance missions.

The UAE-made aircraft features a flight endurance of up to 12 hours and is also suitable for pilot training, providing a versatile platform for modern operational requirements.

Sheikh Hamdan commended Abu Dhabi-based Calidus Holding for developing advanced defence products, praising the role of national institutions in elevating the UAE’s standing in the global defence industry. He highlighted the sector’s progress in building specialised national talent and expanding international partnerships to create a more capable and efficient defence ecosystem.

Modern capabilities

The B-250, designed and built in the UAE, is positioned as a next-generation light combat aircraft. It integrates smart systems within a lightweight yet durable airframe, offering agility and high performance across a wide range of military missions.

Sheikh Mohammed tours largest-ever Dubai Airshow 2025, explores next-gen Chinese aircraft

DUBAI – His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, visited Dubai Airshow 2025 at Dubai World Central (DWC) on Monday.

Accompanied by Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, the Dubai Ruler toured the exhibition area, witnessing the latest advancements in aviation, defence, and aerospace.

The event, held from 17-21 November, is the largest edition to date, attracting major industry players from across the globe.

Innovation and leadership

During his visit, Sheikh Mohammed explored new civil and military aircraft projects alongside Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of the Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group. He commended the UAE’s strides in research and innovation, emphasising the nation’s position as a leading aviation hub.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed highlighted that sustained leadership in the sector depends on nurturing partnerships with global aviation leaders and developing competitive national talent. He added that Dubai will continue investing in smart infrastructure and advanced airports to remain prepared for future challenges.

Aircraft and technology

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed visited key pavilions showcasing the latest in commercial and military aircraft, sustainable aviation technologies, air mobility solutions, and defence systems. Notably, he viewed the Chinese C919 passenger aircraft, marking its Middle East debut.

Developed by COMAC, the 192-seat aircraft offers competitive fuel efficiency and operational performance, signalling China’s entry into the commercial aviation market. The visit also included the CATIC pavilion, highlighting China-UAE collaboration; Strata–Mubadala, featuring UAE aircraft components; EDGE, demonstrating advanced defence technologies; and LODD and Dubai South pavilions.

Global participation

This year’s edition hosts over 1,500 exhibitors, including 440 newcomers, 148,000 trade visitors, and 490 military and civil delegations from 115 countries. The event features 21 country pavilions, including Morocco’s debut, alongside 98 chalets, 8,000 square metres of additional exhibition space, 120 start-ups, and 50 investors. Over 200 aircraft, comprising commercial jets, military planes, private jets, UAVs, and next-generation technologies, are displayed across flying and static exhibitions, marking the largest show in Dubai Airshow history.

Sheikh Mohammed emphasised that Dubai Airshow serves as a platform for innovations and expertise shaping the aviation and aerospace sectors. He highlighted the UAE’s commitment to developing these industries as key economic drivers and integral elements of its knowledge- and technology-driven vision, reinforcing the nation’s ambition to lead globally in aviation, defence, and space technologies.

Emirates flies full fleet in first-ever formation at Dubai Airshow 2025

DUBAI – The Emirates A350 on Monday made its first-ever flypast at the 2025 Dubai Airshow, joining the airline’s Boeing 777 and iconic A380 in a historic formation.

The display marked the first time Emirates showcased its full commercial fleet in flight since the A350’s arrival in November 2024.

Thousands of attendees witnessed the precision aerial performance above Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC).

Fleet formation

The Emirates-led section of the 60-aircraft formation included other UAE commercial airlines alongside military jets and helicopters. Flying at staggered altitudes, the A380 led at 500ft, the 777 followed at 700ft, and the A350 soared at 900ft.

The complex choreography highlighted the UAE’s aviation capabilities, blending commercial and military expertise.

https://www.travelsdubai.com/17-Nov-2025/dubai-airshow-2025-emirates-confirms-us-dollar-38bn-order-65-boeing-777x-aircraft

Emirati leadership

An all-Emirati team piloted and coordinated the Emirates fleet. Captain Mubarak Al Mheiri commanded the A380, with Captain Ali Almarzooqi on the 777 and Captain Rashed Murshed on the A350. Deputy Chief Pilot Captain Khalid Akram oversaw the flight control committee managing the entire commercial segment.

The aerial showcase required meticulous planning, with Emirates collaborating with UAE carriers, the Ministry of Defence, military aviation, air traffic controllers, and the Dubai Air Show Flying Control Committee. Detailed consideration of air traffic patterns, weather, and wind ensured a seamless, safe performance that demonstrated the UAE’s aviation excellence.

https://www.travelsdubai.com/17-Nov-2025/emirates-launch-free-starlink-wi-fi-across-entire-fleet

Dubai Airshow 2025: Emirates confirms US$38bn order for 65 Boeing 777X aircraft

DUBAI – Emirates has placed a landmark order for 65 additional Boeing 777-9 aircraft worth US$38 billion at list prices, marking one of the largest announcements on the opening day of Dubai Airshow 2025.

The airline, already the world’s biggest operator of Boeing 777 jets, unveiled the deal as part of a far-reaching fleet and network expansion strategy. The commitment includes options linked to Boeing’s feasibility study for a new, larger-capacity 777-10 variant, underlining the carrier’s push for high-efficiency long-range aircraft. Emirates also placed an order for 130 GE9X engines, expanding its long-standing partnership with GE Aerospace.

With this latest purchase, Emirates’ total orderbook with Boeing rises to 315 aircraft. The figure includes 270 Boeing 777Xs, 10 Boeing 777 freighters, and 35 Boeing 787s. Its commitments with GE Aerospace now total 540 GE9X engines, reinforcing one of the most significant international partnerships in the global aerospace industry. The combined manufacturing and assembly work underpinning the 777X and GE9X programmes supports hundreds of thousands of highly skilled jobs across multiple US states.

https://www.travelsdubai.com/17-Nov-2025/dubai-airshow-2025-kicks-record-global-participation

Emirates’ order at Dubai Airshow

The new agreement serves as strong backing for Boeing’s study into developing the 777-10, the proposed stretched member of the 777X family. Emirates has secured options to convert part of its latest 777-9 order to either the 777-10 or the 777-8, depending on the manufacturer’s final design and the airline’s future operational needs.

Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group, said the order reaffirms the airline’s confidence in Boeing and GE, describing it as a long-term investment aligned to Dubai’s wider growth ambitions. He highlighted that each new aircraft has been integrated into Emirates’ long-term fleet planning, with the first 777-9 delivery expected from the second quarter of 2027.

The airline emphasised that the expansion supports Dubai’s strategy to strengthen global air connectivity and ensure capacity keeps pace with demand. A young, modern and efficient fleet remains central to its operations, with the 777X expected to bring improved fuel burn, advanced aerodynamics and enhanced cabin comfort.

Stephanie Pope, President and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, noted that the selection reinforces a 40-year partnership between the US manufacturer and the Dubai-based airline. She said Emirates’ latest move reflects the carrier’s plans to enhance its global network using advanced widebody aircraft.

GE Aerospace also welcomed the deepening collaboration. Russell Stokes, President and CEO for Commercial Engines and Services, highlighted Emirates’ status as the world’s largest customer for GE90 and GP7200 engines. He added that the additional GE9X order strengthens cooperation on next-generation propulsion technologies.

https://www.travelsdubai.com/17-Nov-2025/dubai-airshow-ge-aerospace-launches-dollar-50m-dubai-south-expansion-engine-services

How Emirates is expanding

Emirates’ 40-year history with the 777 family spans every major model. Today, the airline operates 119 Boeing 777-300ERs, 10 Boeing 777-200LRs and 11 Boeing 777 freighters, powering flights to more than 140 cities across six continents. The aircraft support tourism flows, global trade and cargo movements through Dubai’s role as a major aviation and logistics hub.

The newly announced order extends Emirates’ Boeing deliveries through to 2038. This long-term pipeline will sustain a broad ecosystem of manufacturing, engineering and supply chain activity across US facilities in states including Alabama, Kansas, Kentucky, Indiana, Massachusetts, Michigan, Mississippi, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Texas, Vermont and Washington.

The 65 additional 777-9s are timed to support Emirates’ future network expansion, as passenger traffic across Dubai continues to grow. The airline expects the 777X to become a core part of its widebody fleet over the next decade, with deliveries staggered to match slot availability, demand forecasts and retirement schedules for older aircraft.

https://www.travelsdubai.com/17-Nov-2025/emirates-launch-free-starlink-wi-fi-across-entire-fleet

Dubai Airshow: GE Aerospace launches $50m Dubai South expansion for engine services

DUBAI – GE Aerospace announced today at the opening of the Dubai Airshow a major expansion in Dubai South, unveiling plans for a $50 million, state-of-the-art On Wing Support (OWS) facility at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub (MBRAH).

The move is aimed at supporting growing CFM LEAP engine services while preparing for the entry into service of the GE9X engine. The announcement highlights GE Aerospace’s commitment to the region’s aviation ecosystem and a skilled workforce.

The new facility will cover 120,000 square feet, replacing the current 29,000 square-foot location, and will serve as a key hub for field deployments, advanced technology development, and internal and external training. For the first time in OWS history, it will include dedicated MRO training facilities, enabling enhanced team capabilities and supporting customer training needs.

What will the new facility offer?

Farah Borges, VP Assembly, Test & MRO for GE Aerospace, explained, “This investment underscores GE Aerospace’s unwavering commitment to supporting our customers in the Middle East and beyond. As demand for LEAP engine services grows, this facility will allow us to deliver world-class maintenance, repair, and overhaul capabilities on a larger scale. It will also position us to support the future entry into service of the GE9X engine.”

The OWS organisation, which performs around 35% of all LEAP engine overhaul shop visits globally, is central to GE Aerospace’s distributed network. The new Dubai site will scale overhaul operations while continuing to provide lighter quick-turn, lease pool, and field services for all GE Aerospace, CFM International, and Engine Alliance engines.

Why Dubai South?

The choice of Mohammed Bin Rashid Aerospace Hub in Dubai South reflects the UAE’s strategic role in global aviation. Dubai South is set to host Al Maktoum International, planned as the world’s largest airport. The hub benefits from its strategic location at a crossroads of air, maritime, and ground trade, offering an integrated ecosystem focused on connectivity.

Tahnoon Saif, CEO of MBRAH, commented, “We are delighted to welcome GE Aerospace’s new facility, further strengthening Dubai South as a global hub for aviation and aerospace innovation. GE Aerospace’s expansion demonstrates the Middle East’s growing importance in the industry and highlights MBRAH’s role in supporting world-class services.”

When will construction begin?

Leaders from GE Aerospace and MBRAH are set to attend a ground-breaking ceremony this week. Construction is scheduled to start in December 2025, with completion expected in the first quarter of 2027. The facility underscores GE Aerospace’s long-term commitment to the region and the company’s vision to enhance operational excellence, reliability, and technological innovation across its engine portfolio.

CFM International, the 50/50 joint venture between GE Aerospace and Safran Aircraft Engines, will also benefit from the expanded OWS capabilities in Dubai South, further cementing the UAE’s position as a central hub for aerospace maintenance and support.

Emirates to launch free Starlink Wi-Fi across entire fleet

DUBAI – Emirates is set to deploy free, ultra-high-speed Starlink Wi-Fi across its entire in-service fleet, positioning the airline to operate the world’s largest Starlink-enabled wide-body operation.

The first commercial flight equipped with the service will take off on 23rd November, immediately after the Dubai Airshow, onboard a Boeing 777-300ER.

The rollout forms part of Emirates’ broader investment in inflight experience enhancements, including an extensive retrofit programme covering nearly 220 aircraft.

Free Starlink Wi-Fi

The airline will begin installing Starlink technology on its Boeing 777 aircraft from November 2025, completing the fleet-wide upgrade by mid-2027. Emirates plans to equip all 232 aircraft currently in service, delivering what it describes as ground-quality internet at 40,000 feet. Customers travelling on Starlink-enabled flights will be able to stream content, make calls, work, browse social media, and play online games on both personal devices and seatback screens.

The first aircraft fitted with Starlink, registered A6-EPF, is already on display at the Dubai Airshow. Visitors are able to test the system’s performance onboard the Boeing 777-300ER before it enters passenger service. Emirates expects to retrofit around 14 aircraft per month as part of an accelerated installation schedule.

https://www.travelsdubai.com/14-Nov-2025/emirates-brings-future-air-travel-dubai-airshow-2025

Who can benefit?

Starlink connectivity will be available at no cost to all passengers across all cabin classes. Access will require only a single click, with no payment or Emirates Skywards membership needed. Emirates will also offer Live TV over Starlink, initially accessible through personal devices and then through seatback screens from late December 2025.

The airline is installing two antennae on each Boeing 777 and an industry-first three antennae on each Airbus A380. The configuration is designed to maximise connectivity capacity, coverage, and stability throughout the cabin. Installation on the A380 fleet will begin in February 2026, coinciding with Emirates’ wider refurbishment programme for the double-decker aircraft.

https://www.travelsdubai.com/24-Oct-2024/qatar-airways-starts-using-elon-musk-s-high-speed-internet-in-historic-first

When will upgrades begin?

Sir Tim Clark, President Emirates Airline, said the partnership reflects the company’s approach of delivering consistent product quality across its global network. He noted that Starlink installation is taking place alongside Emirates’ extensive cabin modernisation, which includes new Premium Economy cabins, upgraded Business Class, refreshed First Class suites and redesigned entertainment technologies.

He added that Emirates aims to avoid the varied inflight products seen across other airlines by ensuring passengers can expect the same level of service and technology regardless of aircraft type or route. The retrofit programme is already well underway, with 76 aircraft fully refurbished and back in operation.

Starlink, operated by SpaceX, provides high-speed, low-latency satellite internet. Chad Gibbs, VP of Starlink Business Operations, stated that passengers would be able to enjoy the same connectivity capabilities available on the ground, including streaming and video calls. The collaboration is part of Emirates’ ongoing effort to enhance onboard amenities, which also include over 6,500 entertainment channels, the A380 Onboard Lounge, and the First Class Shower Spa.

As Emirates expands its connectivity offering, the airline also continues progress on its retrofit programme, covering nearly 220 aircraft. This long-term investment introduces upgraded interiors, refreshed cabin products and improved entertainment systems as the fleet transitions through scheduled refurbishment cycles.

https://www.travelsdubai.com/14-Nov-2025/8-emirates-tips-handle-extra-busy-december-dubai-international-airport