Central Asian airlines grow fleets with major Boeing orders

Boeing has secured substantial aircraft deals with three Central Asian carriers, signalling a major fleet expansion across the region. Air Astana, Kazakhstan’s national airline, plans to acquire up to 15 Boeing 787 Dreamliners, marking its largest single aircraft order.

Three additional 787-9s will be delivered via lessors, bringing the total 787 fleet to 18 aircraft. This expansion is set to enhance Air Astana’s long-haul operations and support over 20,000 jobs in the United States.

In Tajikistan, Somon Air has committed to its largest aircraft order to date, purchasing up to 14 Boeing jets, including four 787-9 widebodies and ten 737-8 single-aisle aircraft. These new jets will replace older models, improve operational efficiency, and support the airline’s international growth strategy. Somon Air currently operates six next-generation 737s to 25 destinations across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, and the new fleet will enable the opening of new international routes.

Uzbekistan Airways has converted existing options into a firm order for eight additional Boeing 787 Dreamliners, bringing its total wide-body fleet to 22 aircraft. These 787-9s are expected to strengthen Uzbekistan Airways’ global network and support its ambitious international expansion plans.

The signing ceremony for these deals took place at the C5+1 Summit in Washington, D.C., and was attended by U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick and Uzbekistan’s Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade, Laziz Kudratov. These transactions reflect Boeing’s strong commercial presence in Central Asia and highlight the region’s growing influence in global aviation markets.

See how these fleet expansions are shaping the future of Central Asian aviation by reading the complete story here.