Somon Air has joined the Boeing 737 MAX operator list, with the first aircraft delivered to the Tajikistan-based airline.
The 737-8 is the first of two aircraft leased from Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) to be delivered and represents the first 737 MAX in Tajikistan.
The 737-8 is central to Somon Air’s fleet renewal strategy and will be used to fly short- and medium-haul routes across Central Asia, Europe, the Middle East and Asia. With longer range and stronger operating economics than previous-generation aircraft, the 737-8 gives Somon Air the flexibility to serve high-demand routes while positioning the airline for future growth, including planned service to London, Beijing and Guangzhou.
In Quotes
Abdulkosim Valiev, CEO of Somon Air said:
“Considering the central geographic location of Tajikistan and the improved range capability of Boeing 737-8, this fleet expansion gives Somon Air opportunity to open new routes with improved economics considering the new aircrafts’ fuel efficiency,”
“Somon Air greatly values its unique long-term relationship with the Boeing company and looks forward to continuous growth of its fleet by adding more efficient and modern Boeing aircraft.”
Firoz Tarapore, CEO of DAE, added,
“DAE is delighted to a part of this momentous occasion, delivering both Somon Air’s first Boeing 737-8, and the first Boeing 737-8 in Tajikistan. This aircraft is part of a two aircraft commitment, and we are excited to further our relationship with Somon Air. We wish the management team success in deploying these aircraft across their network. DAE Capital has over 190 Boeing 737 MAX Family aircraft in its fleet, and the family form a key pillar of our commitment to operating the newest, most fuel-efficient aircraft.”
Paul Righi, Boeing vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Eurasia, India and South Asia concluded:
“We’re honored by Somon Air’s trust in Boeing, and the 737 family, as they evolved from a regional carrier into an emerging international presence over the past 20 years,” said
The 737-8 is the right airplane for the airline’s modernization, and we look forward to supporting Somon Air’s continued growth for many years to come.”
Growth to come.
Somon Air currently is a single-aisle operator, with the airline operating Boeing 737-800, Boeing 737-900 and now the Boeing 737-8 MAX i its fleet, serving 29 destinations across Europe, Asia and the Middle East.
However, last year, plans were enacted to change this, with the airline committing to purchase further new aircraft with up to 10 Boeing 737 MAX family aircraft, as well as 4 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, allowing for the airline to break into the long-haul market.
We’ll have to see how this fleet development goes and how the orders develop.
Welcome to Economy Class and Beyond. Your no-nonsense guide to network news, honest reviews, in-depth coverage, unique research, as well as the humour and madness I only know how to deliver.
Our Social Media pool has expanded. You can find us across most networks as @economybeyond on BlueSky, Threads, Mastodon and Instagram!
Also, remember that we are part of the BoardingArea community, bringing you the latest frequent flyer news from around the world.
Leave a Reply