Uzbekistan Airways Orders Record-Breaking Boeing 787-9 Aircraft
Uzbekistan Airways has placed a landmark order for up to 22 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners from the U.S. manufacturer. This order, encompassing firm commitments and additional options, aims to modernize the airline’s twin-aisle fleet.
Boeing 787 Overview
- Launch Customer: All Nippon Airways
- First Delivery: September 25, 2011
- Number Delivered: 1,138
- Production Sites: Everett, Washington, and North Charleston, South Carolina, United States
Significance of the Order
Previously noted as the first operator of the Boeing 787-8 in Central Asia, Uzbekistan Airways plans to utilize the 787-9’s increased range and capacity to expand its international network. Future routes may include destinations in the United States.
Uzbekistan Airways’ Largest Order
This order represents Uzbekistan Airways’ largest to date. Consisting of 14 firm orders and 8 options, this deal highlights cooperation between Boeing and the Uzbekistan Ministry of Transport. According to Shukhrat Khudaikulov, Chair of Uzbekistan Airways, this move enhances the airline’s presence as a Central Asian aviation hub.
Ceremony at the United Nations
The order was announced during a ceremony at the United Nations General Assembly, with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in attendance. The extended capabilities of the Boeing 787-9 will support Uzbekistan Airways’ ambitions to position Tashkent as a major Asian transit hub.
Boeing 787-9 Advantages
| Model | Range (NM) | Capacity (Passengers) |
|---|---|---|
| Boeing 787-8 | 7,305 | 248 |
| Boeing 787-9 | 7,565 | 296 |
The 787-9 offers enhanced range and increased passenger capacity compared to the 787-8, which translates to higher sales for Boeing. Delivery for Uzbekistan Airways’ Boeing 787-9 aircraft is anticipated to begin in 2031, supporting international route expansion.
Existing Boeing 787-8 Operations
Currently, Uzbekistan Airways operates seven Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners. These aircraft average 7.5 years in age and feature two distinct seating configurations. The 270-passenger layout includes 24 business class flatbeds and 246 economy seats. The alternative setup accommodates 24 business class and 222 economy passengers.
- Seoul (ICN): Daily flights
- Istanbul (IST): 27 rotations
- New York (JFK): 22 round trips
The airline is poised for growth, leveraging the improved metrics of the Boeing Dreamliner series to expand its global reach.
