The Emirates A350 took the stage for the first time during its formation flight at the opening ceremony of the 2025 Dubai Airshow, attracting great attention. Accompanied by the Emirates Boeing 777 and the iconic A380, the airline showcased its entire fleet together for the first time since the A350 joined in November 2024.
The demonstration flight, reflecting the impressive aviation capabilities of the United Arab Emirates, was carried out with a formation of 60 aircraft, consisting of Emirates’ leading commercial aviation fleet, other UAE airlines, military aircraft, and helicopters. As part of the show, the Emirates A380 flew at 500 ft, the Boeing 777 at 700 ft, and the A350 at 900 ft. This visual feast, one of the most popular events of the Dubai Airshow, soared above the Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) runway, offering thousands of visitors unforgettable moments.
In this special demonstration that carries the UAE’s aviation heritage forward, the entire process from the planning to the flight of the Emirates segment was managed by a fully Emirati team. The A380 at the head of the formation was flown by Captain Mubarak Al Mheiri, the Boeing 777 by Captain Ali Almarzooqi, and the A350 by Captain Rashed Murshed. Boeing Deputy Chief Pilot Captain Khalid Akram served on the Flight Control Committee, which was responsible for coordinating the overall commercial aviation performance.
Preparations for this extensive show required close cooperation between Emirates teams, other UAE airlines, the UAE Ministry of Defence, the UAE Armed Forces, air traffic control teams, the Dubai Airshow Flight Control Committee, and relevant aviation authorities (DCAA and GCAA). Every detail, such as changing air traffic patterns, flight routes, weather, and wind conditions, was carefully evaluated to ensure a seamless performance.
