Tajikistan startup Shohin Airlines orders four Airbus A320neo family aircraft at Farnborough

Revealed on the second day of the Farnborough International Airshow 2026, Tajikistan-based carrier Shohin Airlines announced an order for four Airbus A320neo single-aisle family aircraft.

The order marks the first-ever order for new Airbus products from the carrier, which currently operates a fleet of helicopters for short domestic flights within Tajikistan but is yet to commence scheduled passenger operations.

Shohin Airlines orders four A320neo family aircraft

Shohin Airlines, established in Dushanbe, Tajikistan as a private airline company, has disclosed an order for four Airbus A320neo family aircraft. The agreement, which includes two A320neo and two A321neo aircraft, was included in Airbus’ end-of-June order book as an undisclosed order but was officially revealed on 21 July at Farnborough.

First registered in June 2025, Shohin Airlines aims to use the aircraft to expand a wide route network and to develop a strong airline brand that will help stamp Tajikistan’s presence on the world stage.  

The A320neo aircraft will feature 176 seats in a single-class layout while the A321neos will feature 196 seats in a dual-class layout. These new aircraft will be used to develop and launch a series of new routes and begin building an established network of passenger and cargo operations.

“The signing of our first contract with Airbus marks a milestone not only for Shohin Airlines, but also for the entire civil aviation sector of Tajikistan,” said Zafar Ahmadzoda, Chief Executive Officer of Shohin Airlines.

“The A320neo Family aircraft will form the backbone of our airline’s modern, efficient, and environmentally sustainable fleet. We are committed to providing our passengers with the highest standards of safety, comfort, and service quality while expanding Tajikistan’s international air connectivity.”

“We are confident that our partnership with Airbus will provide a solid foundation for Shohin Airlines’ long-term growth and the successful implementation of our strategy to build a world-class airline,” they added.

Speaking in response to these comments, Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business, responded by saying that welcoming a new customer to the Airbus family was a proud moment for the European planemaker and that it was honoured that Shohin Airlines had chosen Airbus products.

 “We look forward to supporting Shohin Airlines’ vision to connect Tajikistan to the world. This agreement marks the beginning of a strong partnership, ensuring the airline sets a new regional standard for fleet optimisation, operational excellence, and passenger experience right from its start.”

Who is Shohin Airlines?

Established in mid-2025 to support the growth of Tajikistan’s civil aviation sector, the airline has said it aims to improve domestic, regional, and international connectivity while introducing modern standards of passenger service.

Although it is preparing to launch scheduled commercial flights, Shohin Airlines currently operates helicopter services for specialised charter missions and is said tpo be completing operational readiness before entering the passenger market.

The airline is investing in fleet development and has announced plans to introduce the L-410 NG regional turboprop for short-haul domestic services. The addition of the four A320neo family aircraft will add wider capability to that fleet.

Shohin Airlines has so far strengthened partnerships with international aviation organisations, including Turkish Airlines, Turkish Technic, and Turkish Aviation Academy, to support training, maintenance, and operational excellence.

The company’s long-term vision is to become a modern, reliable carrier that enhances connectivity within Tajikistan and links the country more effectively with international destinations.