Boeing has announced new aircraft orders from three Central Asian airlines, Air Astana, Somon Air, and Uzbekistan Airways.
All three announcements were made during the C5+1 Summit, commemorating the 10th anniversary of the diplomatic platform linking the United States with the five Central Asian nations.
Uzbekistan Airways Expands 787 Dreamliner Fleet
Uzbekistan Airways has firmed an order for eight Boeing 787 Dreamliners, increasing its total order book for the type to 22 aircraft.
The signing ceremony took place at the C5+1 Summit in Washington, D.C.. It was witnessed by U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick and Uzbekistan’s Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade Laziz Kudratov.
These new 787-9 Dreamliners are aimed at further expanding its international network as part of the airline’s long-term growth strategy.
Somon Air Commits to Up to 14 Boeing Jets
In Tajikistan, Somon Air announced its largest-ever fleet commitment of up to 14 Boeing aircraft, including four 787-9 Dreamliners and ten 737-8 MAX jets. This agreement also marks the airline’s first widebody order and represents a major step in its modernization program.
Somon Air currently operates six Next-Generation 737 aircraft serving 25 destinations across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The 787-9 will enable the airline to launch new intercontinental routes from Dushanbe, while the 737-8 will help in its short and medium-haul operations.
“This significant investment not only marks our first widebody order but also reinforces our dedication to providing exceptional service and comfort to our passengers,” said Abdulkosim Valiev, CEO of Somon Air.
Air Astana Places Largest-Ever Boeing Order
Kazakhstan’s flag carrier, Air Astana, announced its largest-ever aircraft purchase, agreeing to acquire up to 15 Boeing 787 Dreamliners to expand and modernize its fleet.
This order will grow Air Astana’s 787-9 fleet to as many as 18 aircraft, including three already scheduled for delivery via lessors. The new Dreamliners will boost the airline’s long-haul capabilities, allowing expansion into North America while enhancing capacity across existing routes in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.
“Air Astana is strategically committed to boosting its service capabilities from Central Asia / Caucasus to Asia, Europe, and the rest of the world over the next decade, with the arrival of the first Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner next year marking the start of this exciting phase of development,” said Peter Foster, CEO of Air Astana.
Images via Boeing