Boeing has announced a series of major aircraft deals with Central Asian airlines, signalling a new phase of growth and modernisation for the region’s carriers. Air Astana, Somon Air, and Uzbekistan Airways have all committed to significant orders for Boeing’s advanced 787 Dreamliner and 737 MAX aircraft.
Air Astana, Kazakhstan’s flag carrier, plans to purchase up to 15 Boeing 787 Dreamliners. The agreement, once finalised, will mark the airline’s largest single aircraft order. It will also support over 20,000 jobs across the United States. With three more 787-9 aircraft set for delivery via lessors, Air Astana’s 787 fleet will eventually reach 18 aircraft. This expansion will strengthen its long-haul operations and improve the travel experience for passengers.
In neighbouring Tajikistan, Somon Air has committed to its biggest-ever aircraft order. The national airline will acquire up to 14 Boeing jets, including four 787-9 widebodies and ten 737-8 single-aisle aircraft. These new additions will replace older models and fuel international growth. Somon Air currently flies six next-generation 737s to 25 destinations across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The new fleet will boost efficiency and open routes to new markets.
Meanwhile, Uzbekistan Airways has converted its existing options into a firm order for eight Boeing 787 Dreamliners, bringing its total to 22 of the wide-body aircraft. The 787-9s will play a key role in expanding the airline’s global network under its ambitious growth plan.
The signing ceremony took place at the C5+1 Summit in Washington, D.C., witnessed by U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick and Uzbekistan’s Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade, Laziz Kudratov.
Together, these agreements underscore Boeing’s strong partnerships in Central Asia and the region’s growing role in global aviation.
