Emirates A350 Steals the Show with Flypast Debut at Dubai Airshow
The Emirates A350 marked a major milestone at the 2025 Dubai Airshow, making its first-ever flypast appearance in a spectacular aerial formation that showcased the United Arab Emirates’ expanding aviation strength. The new aircraft, inducted into the Emirates fleet in November 2024, took to the skies alongside the Emirates Boeing 777 and the iconic A380 in a formation that thrilled thousands of spectators.
Opening the biennial airshow in grand style, the performance featured a 60-aircraft formation representing both commercial and military aviation capabilities. Emirates led the commercial segment of the display, followed by other UAE airlines and an assembly of military aircraft and helicopters.
The display highlighted precise coordination and engineering excellence. The Emirates A380 flew at an altitude of 500 feet, the Boeing 777 at 700 feet, and the new A350 at 900 feet as they swept over the Al Maktoum International Airport runway. The trio formed the centrepiece of one of the airshow’s most anticipated moments, drawing applause from aviation enthusiasts and industry leaders.
The Emirates contingent was executed entirely by an all-Emirati team, further underscoring the UAE’s commitment to building indigenous aviation expertise. Captain Mubarak Al Mheiri led the formation in the A380, while Captain Ali Almarzooqi and Captain Rashed Murshed piloted the Boeing 777 and A350 respectively. Captain Khalid Akram, Deputy Chief Pilot Boeing, served on the Flight Control Committee overseeing the commercial showcase.
Emirates noted that months of detailed planning went into the flypast. The airline worked closely with other UAE carriers, the Ministry of Defence, the UAE Military, Air Traffic Controllers, the Dubai Airshow Flying Control Committee and aviation authorities including the DCAA and GCAA. Every aspect, from flight paths to weather and wind conditions, was closely coordinated to ensure a flawless performance.
The debut of the A350 in formation not only celebrates Emirates’ growing fleet but also strengthens the UAE’s position as a global aviation hub. As the 2025 Dubai Airshow continues, the flypast is already being hailed as one of the highlights of this year’s edition.
