FLYDUBAI inaugurated its new service from Dubai to Tashkent becoming the first carrier based in the UAE to offer direct flights to Uzbekistan. The inaugural flight departed on March 11 from Terminal 3, Dubai International (DXB) and was welcomed on arrival at Tashkent International Airport (TAS).

On board the inaugural flight was a senior delegation from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) led by Eng. Sultan Bin Saeed Al Mansoori, minister of economy. Trade delegation included the Dubai Chamber of Commerce, other business entities and members of the UAE media. On arrival at Tashkent, the delegation was received by the Deputy Minister of Investments and Foreign Trade of Uzbekistan Shuhrat Vafaev and Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of the UAE to Uzbekistan Mohammed Al Mehairbi.

Al Mansoori emphasized on the importance of this step, further pointing out that the country maintains a leading position in the global air transport map and serves as an important center for enhancing global connectivity through its sophisticated international airports and air carriers with world-class reputation and a wide network of destinations.

He also stated that the civil aviation sector continues to serve as a major pillar in the vision adopted by the UAE, under the guidance of its leadership, to strengthen economic relations and establish partnerships with various developing countries. This sector is also seen as one of the main channels for increasing trade rates and investments and enhancing tourism and cultural exchange.

The inauguration of flydubai’s direct route between Dubai and Tashkent represents an important step in the move to reinforce economic and trade ties between the two countries — expanding the UAE’s economic partnerships with the Central Asian region and empowering the business community in both countries to intensify communication and visits, which helps create opportunities like establishing projects and commercial exchanges that are mutually beneficial to both UAE and Uzbekistan.

He commended flydubai’s pioneering role in supporting the UAE’s air link with world-class and new destinations, which in turn, will support the growth of the national economy.

Commenting on the occasion, Ghaith Al Ghaith, chief executive officer of flydubai, said: “Uzbekistan is an important trade partner for the UAE and the start of flights to Tashkent represents a significant milestone in helping to strengthen commercial ties between us. We are pleased to be the first UAE carrier to launch direct flights between Dubai and Tashkent, opening up another underserved market in Central Asia and supporting Dubai’s vision of creating flows of travel and trade.”

Emirates will codeshare on this route and for bookings under the codeshare Emirates passengers will receive complimentary meals and the Emirates checked baggage allowance on flights operated by flydubai in Business and Economy class. The route to Tashkent will operate five times a week from Terminal 3 at Dubai International and will become a daily service from May 31. — SG