Uzbekistan-based airline Qanot Sharq on Friday took delivery of its first new Airbus A321-200neo XLR aircraft. This is the first of four A321XLR aircraft acquired by the airline via a long-term lease agreement with Air Lease.
Qanot Sharq plans for fleet expansion
The airline earlier this year had announced its plans to add five new Airbus A321neo aircraft, including three A321XLRs and two A321LRs, in a bid to expand its fleet in 2026-2027.
Nosir Abdugafarov, the owner of Qanot Sharq Airlines, said:
“This aircraft’s exceptional range and efficiency will open new nonstop routes from Uzbekistan, expand our international network, and allow us to offer our customers greater comfort and convenience while maintaining highly competitive operating economics.”
AJ Abedin, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Air Lease, said:
“Air Lease is proud to be the first lessor to introduce the A321XLR to Asia with our valued partner Qanot Sharq, an airline we have supported since day one.”
“With its strong operating performance and strategic location in Uzbekistan, I believe Qanot Sharq is uniquely positioned to unlock the full potential of this game-changing aircraft.”
The airline became the first A321XLR operator in Central Asia and the CIS with this latest delivery. With its new long-haul fleet, the airline is planning to operate new routes to key markets across Asia, including Sanya and Busan, and New York City (via Budapest). This will also boost the airline’s connectivity across Asia-Pacific and Europe.
Powered by CFM LEAP-1A engines, the Airbus A321XLR aircraft is configured with 190 seats, which include 16 full-flat Business Class and 174 Economy Class seats. The aircraft is a good option for long-haul routes, with an extra-long range of up to 4,700nm, while also burning 30% less fuel.
About Qanot Sharq
The airline is Uzbekistan’s first privately owned airline. Currently, it operates regional routes to multiple airports in Uzbekistan, while providing regular and charter air services to international destinations.
Its international destinations in the MENA region include Tel Aviv, Istanbul, Jeddah and Medina and Sharm El-Sheikh. In the APAC, it flies to destinations such as Phuket, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc. Its European routes include Budapest, Prague, London and Milan.
Have you ever flown with Qanot Sharq before? Do share your thoughts on this development.
