Tashkent East Airport to open in September for business charter flights

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev inspected the site in mid-June, when construction was still underway on two terminals – one for receiving official delegations and the other for servicing business aviation – as well as the apron and hangar facilities.

Uzbekistan Airways Chairperson Shukhrat Hudaykulov said the airport is being built to promote business aviation and enhance Uzbekistan’s investment climate. The new hub will handle business jets and high-level guests.

“This airport is truly in high demand, as Tashkent South Airport (Tashkent International Airport) is currently experiencing significant congestion. Uzbekistan Airways alone is showing annual passenger growth of 20–25% on average. In addition, new airlines have entered the market and the number of foreign carriers has increased significantly. The current airport is struggling to keep up with this volume,” Hudaykulov explained.

In light of these factors, the president decided to establish Tashkent East Airport. It will become Uzbekistan’s first aviation hub with ICAO category III-A certification – allowing aircraft to land even in heavy fog or zero visibility conditions.

According to the master plan, the new airport will span a total area of 561 hectares. The passenger terminal will be capable of handling up to 100 people per hour, while the apron can simultaneously accommodate 23 double-deck Boeing 747 aircraft.

Construction began in 2017 on the site of a former military airfield. The project is expected to ease pressure on the current international airport and serve as a key transport hub for both the capital and the emerging New Tashkent district.

The first phase of the project, which included the renovation of a 4-kilometer runway, was completed in 2023. The airfield is capable of receiving aircraft of all classes, including the heaviest.

President Mirziyoyev previously visited the construction site in July 2023 and September 2024. On both occasions, he gave comments on the exterior design of the terminals and instructed officials to ensure proper facilities for welcoming delegations.