Uzbekistan and Tajikistan Airlines Boost Fleets with Boeing Orders

The national airlines of Uzbekistan and Tajikistan have made significant commitments to expand their fleets by placing substantial orders for Boeing aircraft. Somon Air, representing Tajikistan, has announced a historic order for up to 14 Boeing 787 and 737 MAX aircraft. Meanwhile, Uzbekistan Airways aims to convert options into a firm order for eight Boeing 787-9 aircraft, raising its total order to 22 planes. Both contracts were finalized during the C5+1 Summit, celebrating a decade of diplomatic collaboration between the United States and five Central Asian nations: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.

Expanding Connectivity in Central Asia

These aircraft orders are poised to enhance connectivity within the region. Uzbekistan Airways currently operates six Boeing 787-8 jets, with one dedicated to government officials. The airline’s order for 22 Boeing 787-9 aircraft is part of a broader strategy to expand its reach and replace older models, including six Boeing 767-300ERs.

Somon Air is also focusing on modernization. The airline, which operates from Dushanbe International Airport (DYU), plans to introduce new intercontinental services while improving passenger comfort. The new aircraft are expected to deliver enhanced fuel efficiency between 20% and 25%, a crucial factor in the airline’s operational strategy.

Abdulkosim Valiev, CEO of Somon Air, expressed enthusiasm about the investment, stating, “We are pleased to announce our commitment to expand our fleet with Boeing’s state-of-the-art 787 Dreamliner and 737 MAX airplanes. This significant investment not only marks our first widebody order but also reinforces our dedication to providing exceptional service and comfort to our passengers.”

Details of the Orders and Future Plans

Somon Air, a private airline established in February 2008, currently operates a fleet of eight aircraft and serves 27 destinations, primarily connecting Tajikistan with Eastern Europe. The airline’s recent order includes 12 Boeing 737 MAX 8 and four Boeing 787-9 aircraft, with deliveries expected to commence as early as 2026.

Previously, Somon Air had signed a memorandum of understanding for smaller Boeing 787-8 models during the 2018 Dubai Air Show, but that deal did not come to fruition. The latest decision reflects the airline’s commitment to developing its long-haul capabilities. Paul Rihi, Boeing’s Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Eurasia and India, highlighted the strategic importance of these aircraft, stating, “The versatility of the 787-9 and 737-8, combined with their outstanding performance, range, and operating economics, provides Somon Air with the essential tools needed to scale its operations effectively.”

Uzbekistan Airways, established in January 1922, operates a modest network from Islam Karimov Tashkent International Airport (TAS), offering international flights across Asia, Europe, and North America. The airline’s current fleet consists of a mix of Airbus and Boeing aircraft, including nine Airbus A320-200s and ten A320neo, alongside five A321LRs and an additional 14 A321neo on order.

The configuration of the new Boeing 787-9 aircraft is yet to be announced. However, if it follows the layout of the existing 787-8, it could feature approximately 24 to 30 business class seats and up to 240 economy class seats. This expansion reflects the airlines’ ongoing commitment to modernizing their fleets and enhancing their service offerings, positioning them for future growth in an increasingly competitive aviation market.