flydubai will launch dedicated freighter operations from Al Maktoum International Airport in Dubai on 1 October, using three Boeing 737-800 freighters under a wet-lease agreement with SolitAir. The move gives the carrier dedicated main-deck cargo capacity for the first time, adding about 23,000 kg of payload per flight alongside its existing bellyhold cargo business.
The new cargo operation is part of flydubai’s diversification strategy and is designed to support Dubai’s wider trade and logistics network. Based at Dubai South, the freighters will handle scheduled and charter shipments across more than 125 destinations in Africa, Central Asia, the Caucasus, Europe, the GCC, the Middle East, South Asia and Southeast Asia.
The airline plans to use the aircraft for pharmaceuticals, perishables, live animals, dangerous goods, aerospace components and express courier traffic, with initial services focused on high-demand regional routes. Future expansion remains under review, including possible passenger-to-freighter conversions from 2029.