Somon Air Takes Delivery of First Boeing 737-8 MAX

Somon Air took delivery of its first Boeing 737-8 MAX on August 3, 2026, marking the first time the 737 MAX model will operate in Tajikistan. The aircraft is the first of two planes leased from Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) and is part of a larger commitment made last year to acquire up to 14 Boeing 787 Dreamliners and 737 MAX aircraft.

The national carrier intends to use the fuel-efficient aircraft to modernize its fleet and reduce carbon emissions by 20% compared to previous-generation models. This expansion will allow the airline to open new routes across Central Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, with specific planned services to London, Beijing, and Guangzhou.

Boeing and DAE executives described the delivery as a momentous occasion for the region. The airline's leadership indicated that the improved range and economics of the 737-8 make it a critical component for the carrier's continued growth and network expansion.