Somon Air takes delivery of Tajikistan’s first Boeing 737 MAX

Somon Air has taken delivery of its first Boeing 737-8, marking both a major milestone in the airline’s fleet modernisation programme and the arrival of the first Boeing 737 MAX to operate in Tajikistan.

The aircraft is the first of two Boeing 737-8s being leased from Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) and forms part of Somon Air’s strategy to modernise its fleet and expand its international route network.

The new aircraft will be deployed on short- and medium-haul services across Central Asia, Europe, the Middle East and Asia, offering greater range, improved fuel efficiency and lower operating costs than the aircraft it replaces. The airline said the 737-8 will also support planned new routes to London, Beijing and Guangzhou.

“Considering the central geographic location of Tajikistan and the improved range capability of the Boeing 737-8, this fleet expansion gives Somon Air the opportunity to open new routes with improved economics,” said Abdulkosim Valiev, Chief Executive Officer of Somon Air.

The 737-8 can accommodate up to 210 passengers and has a range of 3,500 nautical miles (6,480 kilometres). Boeing says the aircraft consumes 20% less fuel and produces 20% fewer carbon emissions than the previous-generation aircraft it replaces.

The delivery follows Somon Air’s announcement last year that it intends to acquire up to 14 Boeing aircraft, including both 737 MAX and 787 Dreamliner models, as it continues its transformation from a regional carrier into a broader international airline.

“This aircraft is part of a two-aircraft commitment, and we are excited to further our relationship with Somon Air,” said Firoz Tarapore, Chief Executive Officer of Dubai Aerospace Enterprise.

Boeing also welcomed the milestone, with Paul Righi, Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Eurasia, India and South Asia, describing the 737-8 as “the right aircraft” to support Somon Air’s continued expansion and long-term growth.