Airbus SE secures significant Middle‑East orders amid engine supply confidence

Airbus SE announced that the low‑cost carrier flydubai has signed a pre‑contract for 150 A321neo aircraft during the second day of the Dubai Air Show. The order represents the largest single aircraft purchase by flydubai in the Gulf region and the first time the airline has committed to Airbus models, after previously acquiring only Boeing aircraft.

In a related development, Etihad Airways confirmed a new fleet expansion comprising 32 Airbus aircraft. The purchase includes both direct orders and leasing commitments, adding to the airline’s long‑term fleet strategy.

Engine supply stability

Pratt & Whitney has supplied engines to Airbus for the remainder of 2025, confirming that output will keep pace with Airbus’ delivery targets. The engine maker reported that its production matches Airbus’ plans for the year and that any additional units will be shipped on schedule. This supply assurance helps mitigate the tight manufacturing conditions Airbus experienced throughout the year.

Future product considerations

Airbus is evaluating the introduction of a larger variant of the A350 series. The proposal follows Emirates’ renewed interest in a more capable two‑engine long‑range aircraft. The potential new model would be positioned to compete with similar offerings from other manufacturers and to meet the evolving demands of the Middle‑East market.

Market context

On the day of the announcements, the CAC 40 index opened in the loss zone, declining 1.25 % to 8 017,73 points. Despite the broader market volatility, Airbus’ recent customer commitments reinforce its position as the world’s leading aircraft manufacturer and support its valuation of 32.9 × earnings in the current period.

The company’s share price closed at 207.3 EUR on 2025‑11‑16, within the 52‑week range of 126.4 EUR to 216.95 EUR, and its market capitalisation remains approximately 163.6 billion EUR.