Uzbek start-up Qanot Sharq signs for A320s

Uzbek start-up carrier Qanot Sharq Airlines is taking a pair of Airbus A320s for its initial fleet, acquired from US lessor Air Lease.

Qanot Sharq is based in Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan.

At the MAKS Moscow air show in 2019, the airline signed an agreement – described as “soft” by United Aircraft – for the supply of three Sukhoi Superjet 100s.

But Air Lease says it has reached agreement to place two used A320s on a long-term contract with the carrier.

“These will be the first two aircraft in the fleet of the Uzbek start-up airline,” it adds. The lessor has not identified the specific airframes.

Qanot Sharq owner Nosir Abdugafarov says both aircraft are due to be delivered in March, and will ensure the “highest standard of safety and comfort” for the new carrier’s passengers.