Uzbekistan Airways to Begin Direct Flights to Islamabad in May 2025
Uzbekistan Airways is set to commence direct flights between Tashkent and Islamabad starting May 24, 2025. As per a representative from the Uzbekistan embassy, the airline plans to operate weekly flights on Saturdays during the initial launch phase. Coordination with Pakistan’s civil aviation authorities is ongoing to finalize all required operational protocols.
In a parallel development, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has launched direct flights from Lahore to Baku, Azerbaijan. The national airline will offer bi-weekly services, flying on Wednesdays and Saturdays. To mark the launch, PIA organized an event attended by travel industry professionals, where the new flight schedule and the benefits of enhanced regional connectivity were showcased.
Both flight initiatives are expected to significantly enhance trade and tourism ties between Pakistan, Uzbekistan, and Azerbaijan.
Speaking to Uzbek media, Uzbekistan’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Alisher Tukhtaev, reiterated both countries’ shared vision to achieve $1 billion in bilateral and transit trade in the near future. He emphasized that collaborative steps are being taken to increase trade volumes and deepen industrial ties.
Efforts are also focused on diversifying the trade portfolio, with particular attention on food products, textiles, and electrical equipment. Talks are progressing to expand the range of goods under the Preferential Trade Agreement and to streamline interbank transactions. These steps are designed to lower tariffs and create a smoother, more efficient trade environment between the two nations.
