Boeing has announced significant growth and expansion initiatives in Central Asia, with leading airlines in Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Kazakhstan ordering new aircraft to modernize their fleets and expand international routes.
Uzbekistan Airways has converted options into a firm order for eight Boeing 787 Dreamliners, increasing their total for widebody jets to 22 aircraft. These ultra-efficient planes will enable the airline to enhance its international network. The deal was announced at a summit in Washington, D.C., and signals Uzbekistan’s commitment to fleet modernization.
Expanding international routes with new aircraft
Similarly, Tajikistan's national carrier, Somon Air, has committed to up to 14 aircraft, including Boeing 787-9 and 737 MAX jets, to support new intercontinental routes and fleet modernization. CEO Abdulkosim Valiev emphasized that this is the airline’s first order for widebody aircraft, aimed at expanding its global reach and improving service quality.
In Kazakhstan, Air Astana will purchase up to 15 additional 787 Dreamliners, which will grow its fleet to 18 planes. The new widebody fleet will facilitate capacity growth and support routes to Europe, Asia, and North America, strengthening Kazakhstan's presence in long-haul markets.
Concurrent with these fleet orders, Boeing announced a $1 billion expansion at its South Carolina site, which will raise production capacity of the 787 Dreamliner to 10 aircraft per month by 2026. This growth plan involves building new assembly facilities and employing over 2,500 workers, reflecting robust market demand for widebody aircraft and Boeing’s strategic focus on maintaining leadership in this segment.
