Azerbaijan Airlines to expand fleet by eight aircraft this year, one A320neo delivered

Image: AZAL

Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) is continuing its strategic push to modernize its fleet. The carrier has taken delivery of another new Airbus A320neo, which brings the total number of the type operated by Azeri flag carrier to six. In total, the airline plans to expand its fleet by eight aircraft by the end of 2026 – including three larger A321neos.

The new aircraft (registered as VP-BCG, MSN 13186), leased from AerCap, is powered by CFM International LEAP-1A26 engines and features a two-class configuration with 12 business-class and 144 economy-class seats. In line with the carrier’s digital passenger experience initiative, the aircraft is equipped with Viasat’s high-speed in-flight connectivity and onboard entertainment systems.

AZAL currently operates a fleet of 25 aircraft. By 2032, the airline aims to double this figure to 50 units, which includes the integration of eight long-haul Boeing 787-8 widebodies. According to the carrier, this strategic expansion will establish the airline as an operator of the one of industry’s most modern and efficient fleets and solidify Baku airport as a prominent regional transit hub.

The airline expects to return to substantial traffic growth in the near term, following the resolution in mid-April of the diplomatic dispute between Azerbaijan and Russia. The dispute arose from the AZAL aircraft crash in late 2024, involving an Embraer 190 operating flight J2-8243 from Baku to Grozny. During the flight, the aircraft sustained severe damage due to the unintended activation of Russian air defense system, subsequently crashing while attempting an emergency diversion to Aktau, Kazakhstan.

The fatal accident led to a temporary deterioration in bilateral relations and a reduction in scheduled air services between the two nations. However, the diplomatic resolution paves the way for a full recovery of flight frequencies and the key market expansion.

CentralAsia+ Aero earlier reported: Azerbaijan Airlines initiates transition to new retailing system.

CentralAsia+ Aero earlier reported: Azerbaijan’s Silk Way West Airlines doubles firm order for Airbus A350F freighters.