‍DALLAS — Uzbekistan Airways (HY) plans to increase its long-haul fleet with 14 Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners, which are expected to be delivered between 2029 and 2032. 

Shukhrat Khudaykulov, Chairman of the airline's board, has announced that HY will sign a memorandum with Boeing sometime this year. "This is going to be one of the first steps in this direction," stated Shukhrat Khudaykulov regarding the fleet modernization plans.

Strategic Investment, Fleet Expansion

The fleet expansion aligns with Uzbekistan's overall effort to improve its aviation industry. On January 16, 2025, the country's president ordered that USD$400 million be raised in international financial markets for the transport sector, of which USD$100 million will be destined for HY.

Khudaykulov said the airline discussed financing its new fleet with Germany's Deutsche Bank. He sounded optimistic about finalizing a deal in the coming months when all the funds will be acquired to fund the venture.

This revamped fleet will significantly boost HY's long-haul capacity. The flag carrier will pay US$2 billion per aircraft. HY operates six Boeing 787-8s, the first of which was delivered in August 2016 and the latest in April 2021. 

Adding 14 additional aircraft will triple the number of Dreamliner services, ensuring more flights than before on available services and potential long-haul service launches for HY.

Parallel Airbus Fleet Expansion

The carrier signed a deal with Airbus to procure 14 aircraft, expected between 2028 and 2030, as President Shavkat Mirziyoyev officially visited France. These purchases are part of the airline's long-term expansion plan, which includes upgrading its services and becoming permanent and dominant in the air transport market.

Uzbekistan Airways has already started making payments from its sources, attracting financial investment for the expansion. The investment is expected to bring more finance to the bank.

With the tandem orders, HY aims to balance its wide and narrow-body fleets to accommodate its more flexible regional and international work. 

This dual-fleet approach will allow the airline to increase route efficiency, boost capacity on key markets, and enhance general connectivity, strengthening Uzbekistan's position as a growing hub in global aviation.

Aviation Growth in Uzbekistan

The Uzbekistan aviation sector is rapidly changing as the country invests in infrastructure development and international connectivity. The newly ordered fleet signals the country's commitment to serving growing demand, improving operations, and enhancing passengers' comfort during travel.

The 787-8 Dreamliner is strategically added to HY's long-haul operations because it maximizes fuel efficiency and passenger comfort. The aircraft's advanced aerodynamics and composite materials improve fuel efficiency, lower emissions, and cabin experience.

Investing in Boeing and Airbus aircraft represents the airline's long-term vision of staying competitive in an uncertain aviation marketplace. 

Regardless of the future, the new HY fleet will allow passengers to experience enhanced connectivity and a modern travel experience as the airline continues expanding its route network.

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