Somon Air's second Boeing 737-8 MAX, named after the founder of classical literature, Abuabdullo Rudaki, landed at Dushanbe International Airport. Senior officials from the Civil Aviation Agency of Tajikistan, the airline, and the airport attended the welcoming ceremony, Avesta.tj reported.
The aircraft was delivered under an agreement with leasing company DAE Capital and continues the carrier's phased fleet modernization. The first similar aircraft, the "Abu Ali Ibn Sina," arrived in August.
The new aircraft are capable of nonstop flights of up to 8-9 hours. This opens the door to launching direct flights to long-haul destinations and expanding the country's international route network, where the launch of a Dushanbe-Minsk flight has already become the latest step.
Replenishing the fleet with modern aircraft is of strategic importance for the Republic of Tajikistan. Expanding the geography of flights and increasing passenger traffic facilitates the country's integration into the global transportation system, stimulating the development of business ties, trade, and international tourism.
The long-range capabilities of the new aircraft increase the country's accessibility to foreign partners and strengthen the region's transit potential. Furthermore, the fleet renewal will ensure a high level of safety and comfort in accordance with international standards.
The tradition of naming aircraft after great ancestors also serves a cultural purpose, promoting the rich historical heritage of the Tajik people abroad.
CentralasianLIGHT.org
September 14, 2026