His Highness Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of flydubai, unveiled a new era in Middle East aviation today when he revealed the first of flydubai’s 50 Boeing 737-800 Next-Generation aircraft.

flydubai is Dubai’s first low cost carrier and aims to make travel a little less complex, a little less stressful and a little less expensive. Sheikh Ahmed said: “For many years the Government of Dubai has recognised the need for a low cost carrier to serve our country. Today, thanks to the vision and leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed, we are one step closer to fulfilling that need.

“When we placed our historic order for 50 737-800 NG aircraft from Boeing at Farnborough last year, we said that we would receive the first aircraft in May 2009 and begin flights soon after. Today we are delivering on that promise with the unveiling of our first aircraft, following close on the heels of the announcement of our first flight, which will be on June 1.

“I am delighted to be here today to witness the unveiling of our first aircraft. This is a tremendous moment for flydubai and for the development of aviation in the region.” The unveiling ceremony revealed the aircraft to a crowd of industry experts, staff and media and gave the first real glimpse of the airline’s striking livery. The bright tones of blue and orange, personally selected by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, were chosen to reflect the colours and the coastline of Dubai. The orange reflects the sun, sand and the warmth of the people of Dubai, while the blue reflects the endless blue skies and the sparkling blue seas that Dubai is famous for.

Already, flydubai has announced four destinations, Beirut, Amman, Damascus and Alexandria, and there will be more announcements to come in the near future. The flydubai model is simple, with customers paying for the services they want. The ticket price includes all taxes and a generous hand baggage allowance of 10kg. From there, customers are able to select other services at an additional charge. flydubai will operate from an enhanced and modernised Terminal 2 on the north side of Dubai International Airport.

reported from flydubai