Tajikistan's Somon Air Takes Delivery of First Boeing 737 MAX

Somon Air, the flag carrier of Tajikistan, has taken delivery of its first Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. The new jet, a 737-8, was handed over on August 3 at Dushanbe International Airport and is leased from Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE). This marks a significant milestone for Somon Air as it expands its fleet with more modern and efficient aircraft.

The 737-8 has a range of up to 3,500 nautical miles (6,480 km) and can carry up to 210 passengers. According to Boeing, the jet burns around 20 percent less fuel than previous-generation 737s. Somon Air plans to fly the 737-8 on short- and medium-haul routes across Central Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

Abdulkosim Valiev, CEO of Somon Air, said: '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.'

The airline has committed to taking two 737-8s from DAE and plans to use them to expand its route network. In November, Somon Air announced a commitment for up to 14 new Boeing aircraft, including 737 MAX and widebody 787 Dreamliners.