Tajikistan’s Somon Air to use newly delivered Boeing 737MAX to launch new services to UK, China

Image: Boeing

Tajik flag carrier Somon Air plans to leverage its newly received Boeing 737MAX-8 aircraft to expand its international network, including proposed long-haul services to London Heathrow, Beijing, and Guangzhou. The announcement was made in a joint statement issued by the U.S. aircraft manufacturer and the airline today, officially confirming the receipt of the carrier’s first MAX jet.

The aircraft (MSN 66771 / VQ-BBA) arrived at the airline’s base hub at Dushanbe International Airport on June 26, though the delivery was only officially announced today. Powered by CFM International LEAP-1B engines, the jet features a two-class cabin configuration seating 176 passengers—12 in business class and 164 in economy.

The 737MAX-8 is the first of two aircraft leased from Dubai-based lessor Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) to be delivered to the carrier, marking the entry of the 737MAX family into Tajikistan’s aviation sector.

Featuring extended range and improved operating economics compared to previous-generation narrowbodies, the MAX-8 gives Somon Air the operational flexibility to serve high-demand routes while positioning the airline for future long-term growth. Central to Somon Air’s fleet renewal strategy, the 737MAX family will be deployed across short- and medium-haul routes connecting Central Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and East Asia.

“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, taking full advantage of the new aircraft’s fuel efficiency,” said Abdulkosim Valiev, CEO of Somon Air.

Firoz Tarapore, CEO of DAE, highlighted the lessor’s involvement: “DAE is delighted to be a part of this momentous occasion, delivering both Somon Air’s first Boeing 737-8, and the first Boeing 737-8 in Tajikistan.”

“We’re honored by Somon Air’s trust in Boeing and the 737 family as they have evolved from a regional carrier into an emerging international presence over the past 20 years,” added Paul Righi, Boeing Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Eurasia, India, and South Asia.

The delivery follows a separate commitment announced last year between Boeing and Somon Air covering up to 14 aircraft, including both 787 Dreamliners and 737MAX jets.

Since starting commercial operations in 2008, Somon Air has maintained an all-Boeing passenger fleet. Prior to this delivery, the airline operated six Next-Generation 737 aircraft (737-800 and 737-900ER), serving a network of 29 destinations across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

CentralAsia+ Aero earlier reported: Kazakhstan’s SCAT Airlines to receive two additional Boeing 737MAX jets.

CentralAsia+ Aero earlier reported: First Boeing 737MAX for Somon Air arrives in Dushanbe.

CentralAsia+ Aero earlier reported: Tajikistan’s Somon Air selects Rolls-Royce for future 787s.