Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The Committee for the Development of Competition and Consumer Protection of Uzbekistan has issued a formal warning to the country’s passenger airlines, emphasizing that the deliberate creation of artificial shortages of airline tickets is unacceptable. The announcement was published on the agency’s official Telegram channel.

In April, the Committee proposed a set of measures aimed at enhancing competition in the air transportation market, optimizing ticket pricing, and expanding opportunities for private sector involvement, including in domestic passenger services and aviation fuel supply.

Relevant ministries and agencies are actively working to stabilize ticket prices, attract private and foreign carriers, and expand domestic air service coverage by providing subsidies to local airlines on equal terms.

In May, the Cabinet of Ministers extended its special fare and subsidy program for domestic flights—previously available only to Uzbekistan Airways—to all resident air carriers. A specially formed commission will determine the eligible routes, fares, and subsidy amounts.

The Committee also noted the recent reduction in ticket prices by Uzbekistan Airways and its subsidiary Silk Avia. These steps are expected to increase the affordability of air travel for the public, stimulate domestic tourism, and positively impact regional economic development.

The agency stressed that if any airline is found to be engaging in anti-competitive practices or infringing upon consumer rights, including by artificially restricting ticket availability, it will face legal consequences in accordance with national legislation.