Air Samarkand Set to Expand Fleet and Launch Scheduled Services
Uzbekistan’s burgeoning airline, Air Samarkand, is gearing up for an ambitious expansion, planning to bolster its fleet to up to eight aircraft by the end of 2025. This strategic growth initiative will more than double the airline’s current lineup, which consists of three aircraft. Chief Executive Anton Khojayan shared these plans with Airways Magazine, underscoring the airline’s vision for rapid growth and increased connectivity.
Since its inception in late 2023, Air Samarkand hit the ground running with a single A330-300, initially focusing on charter flights originating from its base in Samarkand. The fleet soon welcomed an A321-200 and an A321-200NX, although these have not yet commenced revenue service. Another A321-200NX is expected to join the fleet by the end of the first quarter of 2024, marking a significant step in the airline’s development trajectory.
The move towards scheduled operations marks a new chapter for Air Samarkand, with plans to kickstart these services at the outset of the Summer 2024 scheduling season. While specific destinations remain under wraps, Khojayan hinted at an initial focus on East and Southeast Asia, targeting key markets like China, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Future phases of expansion are expected to include the Middle East and eventually Europe, broadening the airline’s footprint significantly.
Strategically positioned in Samarkand, Uzbekistan’s second-largest city and a renowned tourism hub, Air Samarkand aims to elevate the city’s status as a key destination. By leveraging Samarkand’s cultural and historical appeal, the airline believes in the “limitless” growth potential for both the city and itself. With plans to offer two-class seating configurations, Air Samarkand seeks to cater to the premium travel segment, enhancing the overall travel experience for visitors to and from Samarkand.
In addition to direct services, Air Samarkand is collaborating with the local airport operator to facilitate seamless connections through Samarkand. This initiative aims to offer an alternative to the busier Tashkent International hub, providing passengers with more convenient travel options and further boosting Samarkand’s profile as a key transit point.
With a clear vision for expansion and a commitment to enhancing connectivity, Air Samarkand is poised to make significant strides in the coming years, contributing to the growth of Uzbekistan’s aviation sector and tourism industry.