Uzbekistan Airlines Starts Islamabad to Tashkent Flight Service to Boost Silk Road Connectivity

Inaugural flight, with 126 passengers, on board

Islamabad to Tashkent Flight Service will increase tourism, business travel, and cultural exchanges, making Uzbekistan’s iconic Silk Road cities, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva, more reachable to Pakistani travellers.

Uzbekistan, situated in the heart of Central Asia, had strategic position along the Silk Road

By: Muhammad Arif, Editor NSN.Asia

Islamabad: Uzbekistan Airlines, the national career of Uzbekistan, has launched direct flight, HY466, from Islamabad to Tashkent city, marking a new phase towards advancing the regional connectivity under the spirit of Silk Road.

The ceremony of inaugural flight, with 126 passengers, on board was held on Saturday here.

The occasion was honoured by the presence of prominent guests, including the ambassadors of Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, and Azerbaijan, together with main authorities like the COO/APM, MD PTDC, and the Airlines Country Manager. The presence of international media teams emphasised the importance of this remarkable service aimed for enhancing trade and cultural connectivity.

Passengers were given a warm welcome at Stand 3, and as the flight arrived, a formal cake-cutting ceremony was held in Lounge A5, symbolising the official launch of direct flight operations of Uzbekistan Airlines from Islamabad.

Islamabad-Tashkent flight route is likely to improve economic connectivity and regional linkages, positioning with broader initiatives such as the Central and South Asia Connectivity Initiative.

Uzbekistan Airways has dedicated to running this weekly flight every Saturday, further fostering closer ties and enhancing bilateral partnerships between Pakistan and Uzbekistan.

The airline already operates twice a week on Wednesdays and Fridays, direct flights to Lahore, contributing to its expanding footprint in the region.

The new Islamabad-Tashkent flight is likely to increase tourism, business travel, and cultural exchanges, making Uzbekistan’s iconic Silk Road cities, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva, more reachable to Pakistani travellers.

Ongoing growth of Uzbekistan Airlines in operations is expected to establish a vital air link that will enable transregional trade and transit.

This development will provide advantages to key sectors including textiles, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, logistics, and tourism. This achievement highlights the mutual dedication of Uzbekistan and Pakistan to enhancing diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties, thereby paving the way for increased regional cooperation and connectivity.

The entire event was organized with the dedicated support and coordination of IIAP airport teams under the Pakistan Airports Authority which remains committed to promoting international aviation partnerships and facilitating world-class passenger experience.

Uzbekistan was a crucial hub on the ancient Silk Road, a network of trade routes connecting the East and West some 2000 years ago. The cities like, Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva, thrived as centers of commerce, culture, and exchange, attracting merchants, scholars, and travelers for centuries.

Uzbekistan, situated in the heart of Central Asia, had strategic position along the Silk Road that made it a vital crossroads for trade and cultural exchange between East and West.

Scholars say Samarkand city was a major stop for caravans. Samarkand’s Registan Square became a symbol of the Silk Road’s grandeur and cultural exchange.

Also, Bukhara city, known for its well-preserved Islamic architecture and vibrant bazaars, thrived as a trading center and remains a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Similarly, Khiva, another oasis city, became historical center offering a glimpse into the Silk Road’s past with its well-preserved architecture and ancient city walls.

The Silk Road facilitated the exchange of not only goods like silk, spices, and precious stones, but also ideas, religions, and artistic influences on thoughts, culture, society, art and architecture.

Today, Uzbekistan’s Silk Road heritage continues to attract tourists and researchers interested in exploring its historical sites and vibrant culture.

Travel planners expect that Uzbekistan Airline’s Islamabad to Tashkent Flight Service will boost regional air linkages, positioning the Central and South Asia at the heart of Silk Road Connectivity.