Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Andijan International Airport is undergoing a major reconstruction project that will expand its capabilities and increase annual passenger capacity to 3.5 million. President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev reviewed the ongoing work during his visit to Andijan Region.
The president issued instructions to modernize the airport during a visit to the region three years ago. Last year, he also personally reviewed the progress of the reconstruction.
The airport was commissioned in 1978 and received international status in 2013. It occupies an area of 243.4 hectares and employs 100 people. The modernization was prompted by the need to bring the airport in line with modern requirements, improve passenger comfort and expand the geography of air services.
The total cost of the airfield complex reconstruction project is 1.1 trillion soums. During the first stage, the airport’s infrastructure was fully upgraded. The runway was extended to 3.3 km, and a new 60-meter-wide runway meeting Category 4E requirements was built. Taxiways and parking stands for 10 aircraft were also constructed.
A cement-concrete surface designed for a service life of up to 50 years was laid on the runway. The airport was equipped with a high-precision German-made lighting system that allows aircraft to operate at night and in dense fog. Aircraft can land when visibility falls to 300 meters.
Following the modernization, the airport gained the ability to accommodate large wide-body aircraft without restrictions.
The second stage of the reconstruction is currently underway. A modern two-storey terminal with a total area of 19,685 square meters is being built at the airport. Its commissioning will increase passenger handling capacity fivefold from the current 200 passengers per hour. A high-speed Wi-Fi network and smart services are also planned.
The president was presented with a concept for the airport’s further development. Shavkat Mirziyoyev instructed responsible officials to ensure the timely and high-quality completion of the new terminal.
Seven airlines currently operate regular domestic and international flights through Andijan International Airport. The number of flights is planned to increase from 808 to 2,500 per year, while annual airport capacity is expected to reach 3.5 million passengers.
The modernization is expected to improve transport connectivity in Andijan Region and contribute to the development of its economic and tourism potential. In this regard, instructions were issued to develop modern service facilities near the airport and improve the quality of services provided.
