Kyrgyzstan Bolsters Asman Airlines with Two Airbus A321ceo Aircraft in Bid to Exit EU Aviation Blacklist

Kyrgyzstan signs a deal for two Airbus A321ceo aircraft, aiming to launch international flights and exit the EU aviation blacklist by late 2026.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 6, 2026, 8:13 AM EST

Source: The information in this article was sourced from The Times of Central Asia

Expanding Horizons for Asman Airlines

Kyrgyzstan is taking a decisive step toward internationalizing its civil aviation sector. On March 5, 2026, officials in Bishkek finalized a deal to acquire two Airbus A321ceo aircraft. The agreement was signed by Manasbek Samidinov, Chairman of Airports of Kyrgyzstan OJSC, and Maurice Prendergast, Senior Vice President of BBAM Aircraft Leasing & Management. These narrow-body jets will be operated by Asman Airlines, a state-owned subsidiary currently focused on domestic connectivity. The delivery, expected by the end of 2026, marks the first time the carrier will possess the range and capacity required for medium-haul international routes.

Modernizing the Domestic Fleet

The acquisition represents a massive leap in capability for Asman Airlines. The carrier currently relies on a fleet of three Dash 8 Q400 turboprops, which are limited to short-haul domestic flights. While the Dash 8s have successfully restored connections between Bishkek and remote regional centers, the Airbus A321ceo will allow the airline to compete on high-traffic international corridors. Prime Minister Adylbek Kasymaliev noted that the aviation sector has seen a 52% increase in passenger traffic between 2021 and 2025, necessitating this transition to more efficient, higher-capacity jet aircraft.

The Road to EU Blacklist Removal

For over a decade, Kyrgyz carriers have been barred from European airspace due to safety concerns. However, President Sadyr Japarov and Prime Minister Kasymaliev expressed confidence that this "blacklist" era is nearing its end. Recent International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) audits show that Kyrgyzstan’s aviation security compliance has reached 85.76%. A final inspection by the European Commission is expected later this month, which the government believes will validate their adherence to international safety standards and reopen European skies to Kyrgyz-registered aircraft.