Image: Jetcraft Commercial

Jetcraft Commercial has delivered two of three ATR72-600 aircraft sold to Uzbekistan Airports, acquired from Bangkok Airways.

Uzbekistan Airports will place the aircraft with its recently launched community airline, Silk Avia, which will deliver a passenger route network from the capital, Tashkent, to regions (hub-to-point) as well as serving domestic flights between regions (point-to-point).

Raphael Haddad, President, Jetcraft Commercial, said: “Regional turboprop aircraft types are well-suited to meet the needs of Uzbekistan Airports and SilkAvia due to their lighter structures, optimized speed and engines designed for short segments. These factors will ensure SilkAvia meets the growing demand for domestic travel and support Uzbekistan’s booming tourism sector. We have deep expertise in swiftly and efficiently structuring and closing complex transactions of numerous aircraft between multiple parties at Jetcraft Commercial, ensuring success for all involved.”

Up-and-coming airline

Puttipong Prasarttong-Osoth, President of Bangkok Airways said: “The sale of our turboprop aircraft to Jetcraft Commercial has given these high-quality airplanes a new purpose to allow Uzbekistan Airports to strategically plan for a busy summer travel period. As well as being able to streamline our own fleet, the aircraft will be used to develop SilkAvia as an up-and-coming airline and provide a positive passenger experience.”

Rano Dzhuraeva, chairman of the Board of Uzbekistan Airports, adds: “We made an evaluation on which aircraft would provide essential cross-country links and we know that regional turboprops, like the ATR72-600, are the right fit for us. By expanding our fleet, we’re ensuring we can meet the rising demand for domestic and regional travel. These aircraft will open up new point-to-point opportunities and support the growth in the country and its importance as a connecting hub in Central Asia.”

Ukbekistan Airports will take delivery of the third aircraft in the latter half of April 2023.

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