This article is based on an official press release from Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE).

DAE Secures Lease Agreement with Somon Air for Two Boeing 737-8 Aircraft

Dubai Aerospace Enterprise (DAE) Ltd has announced a new strategic agreement to lease two Boeing 737-8 aircraft to Somon Air, the national carrier of Tajikistan. According to the official press release issued on January 26, 2026, the aircraft are scheduled for delivery later this year. This agreement marks the first direct partnership between the Dubai-based lessor and the Tajik airline, signaling DAE’s expanding footprint in the Central Asian aviation market.

The deal introduces Somon Air as a new customer for DAE Capital, the leasing division of the company. The acquisition of these modern, fuel-efficient narrow-body jets aligns with Somon Air’s broader fleet modernization program, which aims to replace older generation aircraft and support network expansion. DAE officials highlighted the significance of establishing this relationship with Tajikistan’s flag carrier as part of their global portfolio growth.

By integrating the Boeing 737-8 (MAX 8) into its operations, Somon Air expects to leverage the aircraft’s extended range and efficiency to open new routes and improve operational economics. The agreement underscores the continuing demand for new-technology narrow-body aircraft in emerging markets where carriers are looking to balance capacity growth with sustainability targets.

Strategic Partnership and Fleet Modernization

The lease agreement serves as a critical component of Somon Air’s aggressive expansion strategy. The airline has been actively pursuing a fleet renewal plan to transition away from older “Next-Generation” (NG) models, such as the 737-800 and 737-900, toward more efficient technology. The Boeing 737-8 offers significant improvements in fuel burn and emissions, which are essential for the carrier’s long-term operational viability.

In the company statement, DAE’s leadership expressed enthusiasm about securing the national carrier of Tajikistan as a client. Firoz Tarapore, Chief Executive Officer of DAE, commented on the new relationship:

“We are delighted to announce the signing of the aircraft lease agreements with Somon Air, a new customer for DAE. As the national air carrier of Tajikistan, we are excited to support Somon Air’s growth, and look forward to deepening this relationship into the future.”

For Somon Air, the deal is about more than just replacing metal; it is about capability. The airline’s leadership noted that the new assets would facilitate the launch of new destinations, potentially connecting Dushanbe to further points in Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. Abdulkosim Valiev, CEO of Somon Air, stated:

“This addition will support Somon Air’s network expansion, enable the launch of new routes, and enhance the overall efficiency of our operations.”

Operational Capabilities of the Boeing 737-8

The Boeing 737-8 is designed to offer superior performance compared to its predecessors. Equipped with CFM International LEAP-1B engines and advanced aerodynamics, the aircraft delivers a 16% to 20% reduction in fuel use and CO2 emissions compared to the airplanes it replaces. For an airline like Somon Air, which operates medium-haul routes from a landlocked hub, these efficiency gains translate directly to lower operating costs and extended range capabilities.

The aircraft features a range of approximately 3,550 nautical miles (6,570 km), roughly 600 miles further than the 737-800. This increased range allows Somon Air to reach new markets without the need for stopovers, enhancing the passenger experience and opening up new revenue streams. Inside, the aircraft features the “Boeing Sky Interior,” which includes larger overhead bins and LED lighting, designed to improve passenger comfort.

AirPro News analysis

This agreement highlights a growing trend of lessors targeting Central Asia as a key growth region. As traditional markets in the West face saturation or regulatory hurdles, the “Stans” (Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, etc.) are investing heavily in aviation infrastructure and fleet renewal to position themselves as transit hubs between East Asia and Europe.

For DAE, securing a sovereign-backed carrier like Somon Air diversifies its risk profile and cements its status as a dominant player in the region. DAE’s portfolio, valued at approximately $23 billion with nearly 750 aircraft, benefits from adding emerging market flag carriers that provide steady, long-term lease revenue.

Furthermore, Somon Air’s move to the 737-8 is consistent with its November 2025 commitment to Boeing for up to 14 aircraft. By utilizing lessors for immediate lift (2026 delivery) rather than waiting solely for direct orders slots, which are currently backlogged for years, Somon Air demonstrates a pragmatic approach to capacity management. This hybrid strategy of direct orders and leasing allows the airline to modernize faster than competitors relying on a single acquisition channel.

Sources

• Dubai Aerospace Enterprise