Uzbekistan Airways has placed the largest order in its history, signing an agreement with Boeing for up to 22 787 Dreamliner aircraft. The deal includes 14 firm 787-9 orders and purchase rights for an additional eight, enabling the airline to modernize its widebody fleet and secure capacity for further expansion into international markets.
The signing ceremony, held on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, was attended by the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, alongside senior leaders from Boeing and Uzbekistan Airways. In addition to the aircraft order, Boeing signed a memorandum of cooperation with Uzbekistan’s Ministry of Transport, aimed at further developing the country’s aviation ecosystem.
Uzbekistan Airways was the first carrier in Central Asia to introduce the Dreamliner into scheduled service, operating a fleet of 787-8s that connect Europe, Asia and the United States, including a nonstop route to New York. The new 787-9s will provide greater capacity and longer range, paving the way for additional growth across the U.S. and other long-haul destinations.
“The Boeing 787 family has already proven to be the backbone of our long-haul operations. With this agreement, we are further strengthening the position of our airline and our country as an important aviation hub in Central Asia, while offering passengers greater connectivity and comfort,” said Uzbekistan Airways CEO Shukhrat Khudaikulov.
Boeing representatives emphasized that the deal deepens a partnership that has lasted nearly three decades. “Thanks to the efficiency and flexibility of the Dreamliner, Uzbekistan Airways will be able to open new routes and connect more passengers with the country’s rich culture,” said Brad McMullen, Boeing’s Senior Vice President of Commercial Sales and Marketing.
The 787 family is renowned for its fuel efficiency, advanced aerodynamics and composite materials, which reduce fuel burn by about 25 percent compared to the aircraft it replaces. This will allow Uzbekistan Airways not only to strengthen its global network but also to contribute to broader sustainability goals.
