Somon Air, the leading airline in Tajikistan, recently made waves with their announcement of purchasing two brand-new Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft. The deal was sealed with Dubai-based aircraft leasing firm DAE Capital and is expected to see the new airplanes added to Somon Air's fleet in 2026.

The agreement, signed in Somon Air's headquarters in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, was a milestone moment for both CEO Abdulkosim Valiev and DAE Capital's President, David Houlihan. Somon Air, established as a competitor to Tajik Air, has been a full-fledged member of IATA since 2008, operating international flights with a fleet that includes Boeing 737-800s and 737-900ERs, each bearing the names of notable Tajik figures.

With aspirations to boost operational efficiency and enhance passenger comfort, Somon Air's decision to transition from older 787-800s to the fuel-efficient, high-performance Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft reflects a strategic move towards fleet modernization. "This agreement aligns with our vision to elevate our services and enhance fleet quality," emphasized CEO Valiev.

Notably, the new Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft are set to open up opportunities for Somon Air to extend its route network, providing passengers with upgraded travel experiences. In a forward-looking statement, Valiev highlighted the aircraft's advanced features that promise improved safety and comfort for travelers, paving the way for enhanced operational capabilities and expanded flight frequency.

Exciting news continued with reports that Tajikistan's Civil Aviation Agency had greenlit Somon Air's plans to initiate flights to London following the aircraft acquisition. If all goes according to plan, the airline aims to commence weekly services to London via Tbilisi, Georgia. This strategic move aligns with Somon Air's ongoing commitment to serving 25 destinations across 13 countries on their current roster of 27 routes.

As the airline industry continues to evolve, Somon Air's bold steps towards modernization and growth are testament to their dedication to providing exceptional service, reflecting the dynamic landscape of aviation in Tajikistan and beyond.