This article is based on an official press release from AerCap Holdings N.V.

AerCap Expands into Central Asia with Lease of Two A321neos to Uzbekistan’s My Freighter

AerCap Holdings N.V., the global leader in aviation leasing, has officially announced the signing of lease agreements for two new Airbus A321neo aircraft with My Freighter, an airline based in Uzbekistan. According to the company’s announcement, the aircraft are scheduled for delivery in the fourth quarter of 2027.

This agreement marks a significant milestone for AerCap as it welcomes My Freighter as its first customer in Uzbekistan. The new aircraft will be operated by My Freighter’s passenger subsidiary, Centrum Air, to support the carrier’s modernization and route expansion strategy. The deal highlights the growing importance of Central Asia as a connecting node in the global aviation network.

Strengthening the Fleet with the A321neo

The selection of the Airbus A321neo aligns with the broader industry trend toward utilizing long-range narrowbody aircraft to open new markets efficiently. In the official press release, AerCap emphasized that these aircraft will help the airline leverage Uzbekistan’s geographic position to connect Tashkent with destinations across Europe and Asia.

Peter Anderson, the Chief Commercial Officer of AerCap, commented on the strategic value of the partnership:

“We are very pleased to welcome My Freighter as AerCap’s first customer in Uzbekistan. The A321neo is one of the most in-demand aircraft in the world and will enable My Freighter to meet the growing demand for air travel in the region. With its market-leading fuel efficiency and extended range, the A321neo will help drive the expansion of My Freighter and its passenger airline, Centrum Air, as they enter new markets.”

The A321neo is renowned for its operational efficiency, offering significant fuel savings and carbon emission reductions compared to previous-generation aircraft. For an emerging carrier like Centrum Air, these economics are vital for maintaining competitive operating costs while expanding into longer sectors.

Centrum Air’s Expansion Strategy

While the lease agreement is signed with My Freighter, the holder of the Air Operator Certificate (AOC), the aircraft are specifically designated for Centrum Air, the company’s passenger brand established in early 2023. Centrum Air has been aggressively building its fleet to serve both regional and international routes.

Abdulaziz Abdurakhmanov, Chairman of Centrum Holding, highlighted the operational benefits of the new additions:

“We are delighted to partner with AerCap, the global leader in aviation leasing. The addition of the Airbus A321neos to our fleet will strengthen our operational capabilities and support our expanding international network, including the upcoming launch of routes to Europe. We look forward to a successful partnership with AerCap.”

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AirPro News Analysis: The Rise of the Tashkent Hub

At AirPro News, we view this transaction as a strong indicator of Uzbekistan’s rapid emergence as a central aviation hub. The specific choice of the A321neo suggests a strategy focused on “long and thin” routes, sectors that require the range of a widebody but may not yet support the passenger volume required to fill one.

Based on industry data regarding the A321neo’s performance, these aircraft are capable of ranges exceeding 4,000 nautical miles (approx. 7,400 km) when equipped with auxiliary center tanks. From Tashkent, this range circle encompasses major European capitals such as London, Paris, and Frankfurt, as well as key Asian markets like Seoul, Tokyo, and Singapore.

The delivery timeline of late 2027 coincides with ongoing infrastructure investments in the region. With the Uzbek government pursuing “open skies” policies and modernizing airport infrastructure, carriers like Centrum Air are positioning themselves to capture transit traffic between East and West, replicating the successful hub models seen elsewhere in the Middle East and Turkey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the lessor in this agreement?
The lessor is AerCap Holdings N.V. (NYSE: AER), which is currently the largest aviation leasing company in the world.

When will the aircraft be delivered?
According to the lease agreement, the two Airbus A321neo aircraft are scheduled for delivery in the fourth quarter of 2027.

What is the relationship between My Freighter and Centrum Air?
My Freighter is the parent company and holds the Air Operator Certificate (AOC). Centrum Air is the passenger subsidiary and brand that will physically operate the new aircraft.

Why is this deal significant for AerCap?
This deal represents AerCap’s entry into the Uzbek market, securing My Freighter as its first customer in the country.

Sources

• AerCap Press Release