Air Samarkand has launched new routes to Georgia’s two largest cities—Tbilisi and Batumi—while significantly increasing flight frequencies to Istanbul and Tel Aviv.
The Uzbek airline’s growing international presence marks a major step in its regional connectivity strategy, as it responds to rising demand and positions itself as a key player in Central Asia’s aviation market.
High-Demand Launches in Georgia
The airline’s new services to Tbilisi and Batumi debuted with load factors exceeding 90% in both directions. These charter flights originate from Tashkent and are operated in partnership with the travel company EasyBooking. Celebratory events at both Georgian airports included welcoming ceremonies with local officials, festive cakes, and special gifts for passengers.
Following strong interest, Air Samarkand will now expand its Georgia services:
| Route | Service Start | New Frequency | Days of Operation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tashkent – Tbilisi | May 18, 2025 | 2x weekly | Thursdays and Sundays |
| Tashkent – Batumi | May 24, 2025 | 3x weekly (from June 9) | Mondays, Wednesdays, Saturdays |
Batumi, a popular Black Sea resort, and Tbilisi, the capital, are expected to become top leisure destinations for Uzbek travelers. This move also strengthens tourism ties between Uzbekistan and Georgia, building on increased regional mobility.
More Flights to Istanbul and Tel Aviv
Air Samarkand is also boosting capacity on its routes to Turkey and Israel. The Samarkand–Istanbul service, a vital link between Uzbekistan and Turkey, increased from three to five flights per week beginning May 26, 2025. The new weekly schedule includes departures on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
Meanwhile, Tel Aviv became Air Samarkand’s latest international destination earlier in May. The inaugural flight launched on May 4, establishing the first direct connection between Samarkand and the Israeli hub. Due to high demand, the route will add a second weekly rotation beginning July 3.
| Route | Current Frequency | Additional Flight From | Days of Operation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Samarkand – Istanbul | 5x weekly | Started May 26 | Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat |
| Samarkand – Tel Aviv | 1x weekly | July 3 | Sun, Thu (from July) |
Strategic Growth and Tourism Boost
The airline’s continued network expansion highlights its commitment to developing Samarkand as an emerging aviation hub. By connecting Uzbekistan to key regional capitals and coastal cities, Air Samarkand supports both inbound tourism and outbound leisure travel, particularly during the high summer season.
Through its collaboration with tour operators and popular city pairs, the airline is creating a seamless experience for travelers. The focus on destinations with strong cultural, business, and tourism value makes each new route a strategic investment in the future of regional connectivity.
Upcoming Highlights from Air Samarkand’s Summer Network
- New destinations: Tbilisi and Batumi added to the international route map
- High load factor: Over 90% seat occupancy on inaugural Georgia flights
- Increased frequency: Expanded operations to Istanbul and Tel Aviv
- Tourism growth: Strengthening ties between Uzbekistan and the Caucasus and Middle East regions
As Uzbekistan continues to modernize its travel infrastructure and promote cultural exchange, Air Samarkand is playing an increasingly visible role. With well-timed schedules, growing route diversity, and strong local partnerships, the airline is rapidly carving out a competitive niche in Central Asia’s evolving aviation landscape.
