SunExpress Launches First Direct Flights Connecting Izmir and Tashkent

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.uz) — Tashkent International Airport has welcomed the inaugural scheduled flight of Turkish airline SunExpress, opening direct air service on the Izmir–Tashkent–Izmir route. The first flight to the capital of Uzbekistan arrived with 170 passengers on board, while 169 passengers departed on the return flight to Izmir.

To mark the opening of the new destination, the aircraft was traditionally greeted with a water cannon salute. In the terminal, a festive reception featuring national treats and a themed photo zone was organized for the first passengers.

The route launch represents the first direct scheduled air connection between Tashkent and Izmir. Flights will operate four times a week—on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays—using Boeing 737-800 aircraft.

Uzbekistan Airports noted that SunExpress's entry into the Uzbek market marks an important stage in expanding the capital airport's route network.

The company emphasized that the arrival of another Turkish air carrier will enhance competition on the route between Uzbekistan and Türkiye, where Turkish Airlines and AJet already operate, while expanding flight choices and fares for passengers.

SunExpress was founded in 1989 as a joint venture between Turkish Airlines and Lufthansa.

Based in Antalya and Izmir, the airline operates scheduled flights to more than 250 destinations across 37 countries in Europe, the Middle East, North Africa, and Central Asia.