Qanot Sharq Launches Regular Flights Between Tashkent and London

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — Uzbek airline Qanot Sharq has received the necessary approvals from the UK Civil Aviation Authority to operate regular flights to the United Kingdom, according to Dunyo news agency.

On 15 December, Qanot Sharq’s inaugural flight arrived at London Gatwick Airport, marking the start of regular service on the Tashkent–London–Tashkent route. An official ceremony was held at the airport with representatives from the British aviation regulator, Gatwick Airport administration, Qanot Sharq management, and local media.

Qanot Sharq will operate flights twice a week, on Mondays and Thursdays. This new service complements existing flights between the two countries: Uzbekistan Airways already operates three weekly flights on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. As a result, the total number of regular weekly flights between Uzbekistan and the UK has reached five.

The expansion of air service comes amid growing tourist traffic. From January to November this year, over 25,000 tourists from the UK visited Uzbekistan, a 23% increase compared to the same period last year.

Qanot Sharq CEO Moisei Pak emphasized that the new route has strategic significance for both the airline and the sector as a whole. He noted that the flight will create additional opportunities for international cooperation and help boost tourist arrivals from the UK.

Oxford University Professor Siddhart Saxena, who attended the event, highlighted that he had used the services of a private Uzbek airline for the first time despite years of travel to the country. He expressed confidence that the new route will enhance air connectivity, passenger comfort, and the development of tourism and business ties.

Qanot Sharq representative in London Ilkan Teker also noted Uzbekistan’s high tourist potential and invited UK citizens to visit the country, explore its historic cities, culture, and traditions.