Dubai's first low-cost airline took to the skies on June 1, 2009 with its first commercial flight to the Lebanese capital of Beirut. Underscoring Dubai's position as a regional hub, it continued with inaugural flights to Amman, Damascus and Alexandria in the following days.
Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Chairman of flydubai said: "This region is very dependant on air transport. It is a great credit to the vision and leadership of Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, that this airline has now taken off, thereby ensuring residents and visitors alike will be able to travel to more places more often."
A welcome move indeed during a time of increasing prices, job losses and depressing incomes. The flydubai model is simple, with cusotmers only paying for the services they want, according to a statement issued to the media by the airline. The ticket price includes all taxes and one piece of hand baggage, weighing up to 10kg per passenger.
Passengers have the option to purchase checked-in baggage in advance at just 40AED for the first piece and 100AED for the second, weighing up to 32kgs, subject to availability. Checked baggage is strictly subject to availability and passengers are advised to book early to secure the space, as only pre-purchased baggage can be guaranteed.
A nominal payment of 5AED allows customers to select their seat and just 50AED secures the extra legroom. Tickets are changeable for a small fee, plus any difference in the fare, and food and drink can be purchased on board.
"flydubai aims to make travel a little less complex, a little less stressful and a little less expensive," explained flydubai's CEO Ghaith Al Ghaith. "Our passengers have the option to customise their travel experience depending on what services they want and how much they want to pay.
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