Baku: Samir Rzayev, a key figure in Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL), emphasized the centrality of flight safety in the airline's strategic and operational decisions.
According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Rzayev outlined AZAL's development strategy, which prioritizes safety alongside sustainable growth, passenger experience enhancement, operational sustainability, and digital transformation. The airline plans to expand its fleet from 26 to over 50 aircraft by 2032, having recently added its sixth Airbus A320neo. Further fleet expansions include seven additional aircraft by the end of the year, comprising six Airbus A320neo and one Boeing 787-9.
AZAL is also working to enhance its international route network, having signed code-sharing agreements with Uzbekistan Airways, Gulf Air, and Air Serbia, bringing the total to 12 agreements. The company also operates under more than 40 interline agreements. To address high passenger demand, AZAL has leased four additional aircraft, with plans to return them as new aircraft enter the fleet by November.
Financially, AZAL has seen a 42% revenue increase since 2023, alongside a rise in passenger numbers, with over 4 million passengers in 2025, including 1 million transit passengers. The expansion of the route network, which now includes 53 destinations, is credited for the increase in passenger numbers.
Rzayev also highlighted the importance of human capital development as a strategic priority for AZAL. The airline has implemented a structured approach to increase employee loyalty, achieving an 83% loyalty indicator. The SKY Academy platform supports continuous employee learning and development, while a restructured performance management system aims to define employee goals more clearly and manage future development processes.
Pilot and guide training at AZAL is highly regarded, with continuous training programs in place to enhance pilot skills. The airline's flight crew training center at Gabala International Airport is part of this effort, along with international training programs in Turkey and Spain. The National Aviation Academy's International Training Center further supports training for air traffic controllers and flight crew in emergency situations.
Customer experience innovations include high-speed onboard Wi-Fi, updated multimedia systems, diverse food menu options, and recognition for service quality, such as the 'Best Regional Airline in Central Asia and the CIS' award from Skytrax. Digital solutions have enhanced customer experience, with a modernized website and mobile app offering features like Apple Pay and Google Pay, boarding pass integration, and ticket upgrades.
AZAL's ESG strategy focuses on creating a low-carbon aviation ecosystem, with fleet renewal and carbon emission reduction as key priorities. Initiatives like satellite-based observation and space tracking have reduced carbon emissions by 2.6%.
Participation in global initiatives, such as COP29 and IATA energy forums, enhances AZAL's strategic position and regional influence. Heydar Aliyev International Airport's profitability has increased due to passenger traffic growth and new destinations, serving 7.6 million passengers in 2025. The airport's achievements include international awards and compliance with ICAO safety standards.
Airspace optimization has made Azerbaijani airspace a preferred route for airlines amid geopolitical tensions, with AZANS handling over 342,000 flights in 2025, resulting in shorter flight times, reduced delays, and lower fuel consumption.