Uzbekistan Airways Finalizes Landmark $8.5 Billion Boeing Dreamliner Order

Historic Agreement Signed at UN General Assembly

Uzbekistan Airways, the national carrier of Uzbekistan, has finalized a landmark agreement with Boeing for the acquisition of up to 22 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft. The deal, valued at approximately $8.5 billion, was formally signed on September 22, 2025, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The signing ceremony was attended by Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, along with senior representatives from both Boeing and Uzbekistan Airways, and U.S. officials including Under Secretary of Commerce for International Trade William Kimmitt and Boeing Global President Dr. Brendan Nelson.

This agreement represents the largest commercial aircraft purchase in the history of Uzbekistan Airways and is considered the largest commercial aircraft deal of its kind in Central Asia. The order includes 14 firm commitments for the 787-9 variant, with options for an additional eight aircraft. Deliveries of these new Dreamliners are scheduled to commence in 2031.

Fleet Modernization and Network Expansion

The acquisition is a cornerstone of Uzbekistan Airways' long-term strategy to modernize its wide-body fleet and significantly expand its long-haul capacity. The new 787-9 Dreamliners are expected to enhance the airline's ability to serve existing routes and open new destinations across Europe, Asia, and North America. Shukhrat Khudaikulov, Chairman of Uzbekistan Airways, stated, 'The Boeing 787 Dreamliner family has proven to be the cornerstone of our long-haul operations. With this new contract, we are further strengthening both our airline's and our nation's position as a leading aviation hub in Central Asia, while providing our passengers with greater global connectivity.'

The 787-9 Dreamliner is recognized for its fuel efficiency, extended range, and increased passenger capacity compared to its predecessor, the 787-8. Uzbekistan Airways was the first airline in Central Asia to operate the 787, having introduced the 787-8 in 2016. The airline currently operates seven 787-8s and nine older 767-300s.

Economic Impact and Strategic Partnerships

The deal is projected to have a substantial economic impact, with U.S. President Donald Trump noting that it would support approximately 35,000 U.S. jobs. The U.S. Commerce Department estimated the deal includes $7.3 billion in U.S. export content. Brad McMullen, Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing, highlighted the strategic benefits, stating, 'With its fuel efficiency and operational flexibility, the 787 Dreamliner will help Uzbekistan Airways expand into new markets, connecting more travelers to their rich culture.'

In conjunction with the aircraft order, Boeing also signed a Memorandum of Cooperation with the Uzbekistan Ministry of Transport. This partnership aims to explore opportunities to further strengthen and expand the country's aviation infrastructure and ecosystem, aligning with Uzbekistan's national development program, Uzbekistan–2030, which seeks to position Tashkent as a leading international transit hub.