In a move aimed at deepening regional cooperation and expanding travel options, Uzbekistan Airlines has launched a direct flight route from Islamabad to Tashkent. The inaugural flight HY466 departed on Saturday with 126 passengers, establishing a key air corridor between the two capitals.

The launch ceremony, held at Islamabad International Airport, created a festive and dignified atmosphere. The departure terminal was adorned with celebratory decorations, and guests were welcomed in a reception space filled with cultural symbols reflecting Uzbek and Pakistani heritage.

Notable figures from across the diplomatic community graced the event, including ambassadors from Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, and Kazakhstan, alongside government representatives and international media personnel. A cake-cutting ceremony at Lounge A5 served as the official highlight, marking the beginning of what is anticipated to be a strong bilateral aviation relationship.

The new flight will operate weekly on Saturdays, enhancing Uzbekistan Airlines’ regional schedule, which already includes twice-weekly flights from Lahore. The expanded network is designed to encourage greater tourism and commerce, especially for Pakistani travelers eager to explore Uzbekistan’s Silk Road cities like Samarkand and Khiva.

This new air route also holds economic significance, offering a faster link for stakeholders in sectors such as textiles, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and logistics. Trade professionals view this as a step toward operationalizing the Central and South Asia Connectivity Initiative, a regional plan focused on trade facilitation and economic integration.

Furthermore, easier access to Uzbekistan is expected to boost academic, cultural, and business collaborations, reinforcing the evolving diplomatic relationship between the two nations.