Air Samarkand has unveiled an ambitious expansion of its international flight network, adding new routes to Georgia and Azerbaijan while boosting services to Turkey and Israel. As Uzbekistan’s fast-growing airline continues to strengthen its position in Central Asia, the latest updates are set to improve connectivity across key Eurasian cities in 2025.
New Flights to Georgia: Tbilisi and Batumi
Travelers from Uzbekistan will now find it easier to explore the scenic landscapes and vibrant culture of Georgia. Air Samarkand has introduced new charter services from Tashkent to both Tbilisi and Batumi, the country’s two largest cities. The first flight to Tbilisi took off on May 18, while flights to Batumi begin on May 24.
These routes are operated in partnership with the tour operator EasyBooking, which offers bundled packages including flights, transfers, and accommodation. Starting in June, the schedule will increase with:
- Flights to Tbilisi on Thursdays and Sundays
- Flights to Batumi on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays (from June 9)
With no visa requirements, a mild climate, traditional cuisine, and warm hospitality, Georgia continues to be a favored summer destination for Uzbek travelers.
Direct Routes to Baku, Azerbaijan
Baku, the vibrant capital of Azerbaijan, is the latest addition to Air Samarkand’s growing list of destinations. Starting June 6, the airline will operate flights from Samarkand to Baku every Friday, and from Tashkent on Tuesdays and Thursdays. These connections aim to reinforce historical, cultural, and economic ties between the two nations.
Baku is known for its mix of ancient heritage and modern architecture, making it a compelling destination for both leisure and business travelers from Uzbekistan and beyond.
Expanded Service to Istanbul and Tel Aviv
Responding to strong demand, Air Samarkand is also increasing its frequencies to two key cities: Istanbul and Tel Aviv.
| Route | Previous Frequency | New Frequency | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Samarkand – Istanbul | 3 per week | 5 per week | May 26 |
| Samarkand – Tel Aviv | 1 per week | 2 per week | July 3 |
Istanbul flights will now be available on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, offering travelers more options to one of the world’s top destinations. Flights to Tel Aviv, originally launched on May 4, will run on Sundays and Thursdays, accommodating increased passenger traffic between Uzbekistan and Israel.
Fleet, Comfort, and Onboard Services
Air Samarkand operates these routes using a modern fleet that includes:
- Airbus A330 (313 seats)
- Airbus A321 (194 seats)
- Airbus A321neo (221 seats)
All passengers enjoy a full hot meal or breakfast, depending on the time of departure, and can browse an in-flight magazine covering travel, culture, and airline news.
Strategic Growth and Popular Destinations
The airline’s current expansion is part of a broader strategy to increase international visibility and meet growing demand for reliable air travel in Central Asia. Since launching its first scheduled service to Istanbul in March 2024, Air Samarkand has quickly grown to serve a wide network, including:
- UAE: Abu Dhabi and Al Ain
- Saudi Arabia: Jeddah and Medina
- Vietnam: Nha Trang and Phú Quốc
- Egypt: Sharm el-Sheikh
The airline has also run charter flights to cities such as Delhi, Dhaka, Dubai, and Islamabad. Its most popular destination remains Jeddah, with flights departing from five Uzbek cities: Samarkand, Bukhara, Fergana, Namangan, and Termez.
Samarkand as a Tourism and Transit Hub
Located on the historic Silk Road, Samarkand is emerging as a significant modern-day transit hub and tourist magnet. The city blends UNESCO World Heritage landmarks with new urban infrastructure, offering sustainable tourism experiences for international visitors.
Air Samarkand’s efforts align with broader goals to position Samarkand as a Central Asian gateway, capable of connecting East and West with efficiency, comfort, and cultural depth.
Booking and Travel Packages
Tickets and package tours are available through EasyBooking (http://www.easybooking.uz) and the airline’s official site (airsamarkand.com). For Israeli passengers, Asia Travel Israel (www.asiatravel.co.il) serves as the official partner, offering seamless booking and customer support.
With new routes, enhanced services, and a growing fleet, Air Samarkand is poised to become a leading regional airline that brings the cultural richness of Uzbekistan to the world—and welcomes the world to its doorstep.
Photo credit: Peter Psenica
