Etihad Airways, based in Abu Dhabi, plans to launch direct flights to Tashkent, as announced by the press service of Uzbekistan's Ministry of Transport. The agreement was reached during a meeting between Deputy Minister of Transport Jasurbek Choriyev and the airline's Chief Operating Officer, Captain Majed Al-Marzuki.

The meeting, held at the airline's headquarters, discussed the current state and prospects for developing air connectivity between Uzbekistan and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Issues related to launching regular Etihad Airways flights to Uzbekistan and gradually expanding its route network were considered. As a result of the negotiations, an agreement was reached to launch regular flights on the Tashkent – Abu Dhabi – Tashkent route starting August 17 of this year.

The resumption of direct air links between the capitals will allow Uzbek passengers to utilize Etihad Airways' extensive route network and fly to over 70 international destinations in Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa, and North America with convenient connections via Abu Dhabi. Additionally, it was confirmed that negotiations have begun between Etihad Airways and Uzbekistan Airways to conclude interline and codeshare agreements.

These developments are expected to significantly expand the geography of existing routes from Uzbekistan and strengthen Tashkent's position as a regional aviation hub, potentially boosting economic growth and tourism, though the practical implementation and market demand will determine the ultimate success of these plans.

Source: kun.uz