Somon Air debuts Boeing 737 MAX with first aircraft delivery from DAE lease
Somon Air has received its first Boeing 737 MAX jet. The Tajikistan national carrier accepted the 737-8 on August 3, 2026. This marks the first 737 MAX to operate in the country. ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(119); }); The aircraft is the first of two planes leased from Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE). It forms a key part of Somon Air’s plan to modernize its fleet and grow its network. Boosting Routes Across Central Asia Somon Air plans to use the 737-8 on short- and medium-haul routes. These will cover Central Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(127); }); The jet offers longer range and better operating economics than older models. This gives the airline more flexibility on high-demand routes. It also supports future expansion. Somon Air aims to add service to cities such as London, Beijing , and Guangzhou. Abdulkosim Valiev, CEO of Somon Air , highlighted the benefits. “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,” he said. ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(128); }); He also noted the airline’s strong partnership with Boeing. “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.” Photo Credit: Boeing Efficient Performance and Lower Emissions The 737-8 stands out as the most versatile model in the 737 MAX family. It can seat up to 210 passengers, depending on the layout. Its range reaches 3,500 nautical miles, or about 6,480 kilometres. ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(129); }); Compared with the aircraft it replaces, the 737 MAX cuts fuel use and carbon emissions by 20 percent. These gains support Somon Air’s modernization goals while improving cost efficiency. Firoz Tarapore, CEO of DAE , welcomed the delivery. “DAE is delighted to be a part of this momentous occasion, delivering both Somon Air’s first Boeing 737-8, and the first Boeing 737-8 in Tajikistan,” he said. “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.” ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(130); }); DAE Capital already holds more than 190 Boeing 737 MAX family jets in its portfolio. The type remains a core part of its focus on newer, fuel-efficient aircraft. Building on a Strong Boeing Partnership Paul Righi, Boeing vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing for Eurasia, India, and South Asia , praised the milestone. “We’re honoured 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,” he 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.” ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(131); }); Last year, Boeing and Somon Air announced a commitment for up to 14 fuel-efficient airplanes. The order includes both 787 Dreamliners and additional 737 MAX jets. The new 737-8 will complement the planned Dreamliner fleet. About Somon Air Somon Air serves as Tajikistan’s national airline and leading commercial carrier. It began operations in 2008 and has always flown an all-Boeing fleet. The airline currently operates six Next-Generation 737s. It flies to 29 destinations across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East from its hub at Dushanbe International Airport. ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(132); }); The arrival of the first 737 MAX signals a clear step forward. It strengthens Somon Air’s ability to serve growing demand with more efficient and capable aircraft. As the airline expands, the new jet positions it for greater reach and improved performance across its network.