Dubai-based airline flydubai has announced that it will begin dedicated freighter operations on October 1, 2026, utilizing three Boeing 737-800(F) aircraft leased from SolitAir. These aircraft will operate out of Dubai World Central, providing cargo capacity of up to 23,000 kilograms per flight, marking a strategic expansion of flydubai's cargo capabilities.
The airline currently depends on its passenger fleet for cargo transport via bellyhold capacity. The introduction of dedicated freighters aims to increase flexibility for scheduled and ad-hoc freight services, with plans to evaluate passenger-to-freighter conversions starting in 2029. Hamad Obaidalla, flydubai’s Chief Commercial Officer, highlighted the importance of guaranteed main-deck capacity for regional trade and connectivity.
Strategic Growth and Route Development
According to Kazakhstan's Ministry of Transport, flydubai intends to operate weekly freighter flights between Almaty International and Dubai beginning October 2. The wet lease agreement with SolitAir is projected to last three years, with additional routes to be announced. The move supports flydubai's broader strategy for market expansion and increased cargo throughput.
"Since 2009, flydubai has opened more than 100 underserved markets and expanded regional connectivity. As trade requirements evolve, our partners require guaranteed main-deck capacity, flexible scheduling, and specialised handling," said Hamad Obaidalla.
The wet-leased aircraft from SolitAir include two Boeing 737-800BCF and two BDSF models, while flydubai’s existing fleet consists of 98 aircraft, including B737-8, B737-800, and B737-9 series, enabling it to support both passenger and cargo demands comprehensively.
