Tashkent, Uzbekistan – In a significant step toward strengthening bilateral ties between Uzbekistan and Pakistan, Uzbekistan Airways has unveiled plans to launch direct flights between Tashkent and Islamabad starting May 24, 2025. The announcement, reported by Arab News, marks a milestone in enhancing connectivity, trade, and cultural exchanges between the two nations.
The new route will initially operate weekly, with flights scheduled every Saturday. Uzbekistan Airways is actively collaborating with Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority to finalize logistical and regulatory requirements, ensuring a smooth rollout. Depending on passenger demand and operational feasibility, the airline aims to increase flight frequency in the future, offering greater flexibility for travelers.
The Tashkent-Islamabad route is expected to serve as a vital link for business travelers, tourists, and the Uzbek and Pakistani diasporas. By eliminating the need for connecting flights, the direct service will reduce travel time and costs, making cross-border visits more accessible. The initiative reflects Uzbekistan Airways’ commitment to expanding its footprint in South Asia, a region with growing economic and cultural significance.
In addition to the Islamabad route, Uzbekistan Airways is exploring the introduction of direct flights to Karachi, Pakistan’s bustling commercial hub. While no official timeline has been confirmed, the airline’s interest in Karachi underscores its ambition to deepen ties with Pakistan’s major cities. Currently, Uzbekistan Airways operates bi-weekly flights between Tashkent and Lahore on Wednesdays and Fridays, a service that has already proven popular among travelers.
The launch of the Tashkent-Islamabad route is the result of concerted efforts by the Uzbek embassy in Islamabad and Uzbekistan Airways JSC. Both parties have worked diligently to overcome logistical challenges and align the initiative with broader goals of fostering cooperation. The new air link is poised to facilitate people-to-people exchanges, boost tourism, and create new opportunities for trade. Uzbekistan’s rich cultural heritage, exemplified by historic cities like Samarkand and Bukhara, is expected to attract Pakistani tourists, while Pakistan’s diverse landscapes and vibrant cities could draw Uzbek visitors.
The economic potential of the route is significant. Pakistan and Uzbekistan share a mutual interest in expanding trade, particularly in textiles, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals. Direct flights will enable businesses to forge stronger partnerships, attend trade fairs, and explore investment opportunities with greater ease. Furthermore, the route will support the growing number of Pakistani students pursuing education in Uzbekistan, where affordable, high-quality academic programs are gaining popularity.
Uzbekistan Airways’ expansion into Pakistan aligns with Uzbekistan’s broader strategy to position itself as a regional aviation hub. The airline has modernized its fleet and expanded its international network in recent years, capitalizing on the country’s strategic location at the crossroads of Central and South Asia. For Pakistan, improved connectivity with Uzbekistan opens doors to Central Asian markets, fostering economic integration across the region.
As the May 2025 launch approaches, anticipation is building among travelers and stakeholders. The Tashkent-Islamabad route is more than a new flight path—it’s a bridge to deeper friendship and collaboration between Uzbekistan and Pakistan, promising a brighter future for both nations.
