‍TASHKENT — State-owned Uzbek flag carrier, Uzbekistan Airways (HY), has firmed up an order for eight more Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, exercising options held on an order for 14 of the type from September. Today’s order brings the airline's order book to 22.

September’s order was a major one —the carrier’s largest-ever aircraft purchase in its 33-year history —enabling it to expand its international and intercontinental network significantly.

Uzbekistan Airways was the first operator of the Dreamliner in Central Asia, operating a fleet of 6 787-8s to markets in Europe, Asia, and the United States, even using the aircraft as the head of state transport.

The new aircraft will join the carrier’s existing fleet of 9 Airbus A320s, 10 A320neos, 5 A321neos, 6 Boeing 767-300ERs, 4 Let L-410 Turbolets, as well as 14 A321neos it has on the order books.

Speaking to the initial order in September, Uzbekistan Airways Chairman Shukhrat Khudaikulov said, "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. This step reaffirms our ambitions and strategic commitment to sustainable growth."

Boeing senior vice president of Commercial Sales and Marketing, Brad McMullen, also stated, "We value our nearly 30-year partnership with Uzbekistan Airways and will continue to support their growth strategy as they further connect the region and world. 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."