Tajikistan's Shohin Airlines Places Inaugural Order for Four Airbus A320neo Jets

Shohin Airlines, a new private carrier based in Tajikistan, has placed its first-ever aircraft order with Airbus for four A320neo family aircraft, the airline announced. The deal marks a significant step for the startup as it prepares to launch international operations.

Order Details

The agreement includes two A320neo and two A321neo aircraft. According to the announcement, the order appeared in Airbus’s order book at the end of June as an undisclosed purchase.

Shohin Airlines plans to configure the jets in a dual-class layout. The A320neo will be equipped with 176 seats, while the larger A321neo will feature 196 seats. The airline intends to deploy these aircraft to establish services in regional and global markets.

Strategic Significance

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Zafar Ahmadzoda, Chief Executive Officer of Shohin Airlines, described the contract as a "milestone for both the airline and Tajikistan’s civil aviation sector." He added that the fuel-efficient A320neo family will form the "backbone" of the carrier's fleet as it works to expand the country's international air links.

For Airbus, the deal represents a foothold with a new national carrier. "We are honored that Shohin Airlines has selected Airbus for its launch operations," said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP of Sales for the Commercial Aircraft business, noting the company's commitment to supporting the airline's growth.

Background

Based in Dushanbe, Shohin Airlines was registered in June 2025. The carrier has stated its objective is to build a comprehensive route network and establish a brand that represents Tajikistan in the global aviation industry. This initial fleet order is the first major public step toward that goal.