Somon Air Signs Deal for two 737-8s

Somon Air, Tajikistan’s largest airline, has signed an agreement to purchase two Boeing 737-8 Max aircraft from UAE-based leasing and management firm DAE Capital. The new jets are slated to join the carrier’s fleet in 2026, marking an important milestone in Somon Air’s long-term fleet modernization and expansion strategy.

The deal was formalized in Somon Air’s Dushanbe offices, where CEO Abdulkosim Valiev and DAE Capital President David Houlihan signed the agreement. The acquisition of the two new Boeing 737-8s comes as Somon Air seeks to replace some of its older aircraft and enhance its operational efficiency and passenger comfort. Valiev stated that the decision to invest in the Boeing jets reflects the airline’s commitment to keeping up with evolving industry standards and meeting growing market demands.

Founded in 2008 as a direct competitor to the now largely defunct national carrier Tajik Air, Somon Air is a full member of the International Air Transport Association (IATA). The airline’s current fleet includes four Boeing 737-800 and two 737-900ER aircraft, all of which bear the names of Tajik national heroes and historical figures. Somon Air operates a robust international network, offering regular scheduled passenger flights between Tajikistan and destinations such as Germany, the UAE, Turkey, China, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Iran, India, Russia, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan.

For some time, Somon Air had been considering various options for fleet renewal, including interest in Airbus and Embraer aircraft. However, after a thorough evaluation, the carrier finalized its decision to purchase the Boeing 737 MAX 8. “Thanks to the constant support and attention of the Founder of Peace and National Unity and Leader of the Nation, President of the Republic of Tajikistan, respected Emomali Rahmon, the civil aviation sector of Tajikistan is developing every year,” said CEO Abdulkosim Valiev. He added that signing the agreement is a key component of their long-term strategy to modernize the fleet and improve the quality of service.

Valiev also highlighted the benefits of the Boeing 737-8, noting its high fuel efficiency, increased flight range, and improved operational characteristics. “The new Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft will allow us to expand our route network, increase operational efficiency, and offer our passengers modern conditions for comfortable flights. We also plan to increase the frequency of our services,” he explained. These enhancements are expected to further boost passenger safety and comfort while enabling the airline to explore new destinations.

In a related development, during a press conference held in London on January 29, Habibullo Nazarzoda of Tajikistan’s Civil Aviation Agency confirmed that the agency had granted Somon Air permission to seek the necessary approvals to launch flights to London. If the new Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft are received as planned in 2026, Somon Air intends to launch weekly flights to London via Tbilisi in Georgia. The airline is currently awaiting slot approvals at one of several London airports that are reportedly eager to welcome the new service.

At present, Somon Air operates an extensive network of 27 routes, serving 25 destinations across 13 countries. The purchase of the Boeing 737-8 aircraft is expected to further strengthen the airline’s competitive position in the region and support its ambitious expansion plans. This strategic move underscores Somon Air’s dedication to modernizing its fleet, enhancing passenger experience, and contributing to the continued growth of Tajikistan’s civil aviation sector.

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