Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) -- On 1 June, the premiere of the film "Flight 101 " took place at the House of Cinematography. The film was shot by the Cinematography Agency and the Yoshlik film studio.

The film tells about one significant day and events that happened to the crew and passengers of a Boeing 757 aircraft. In the early morning of 11 September 2001, an Uzbekistan Airways aircraft took off from Tashkent. This was the final flight for experienced pilot Zarif Saidazimov.

Approaching John F. Kennedy International Airport, PIC Zarif Saidazimov suddenly receives a command from the controller that he needs to land at another airport located in Boston. Despite the request to remain calm, panic begins among the passengers. 

“I would like to thank the Ministry of Transport and Uzbekistan Airways for their help in making this film. I would also like to emphasize that today’s premiere - also a tribute to the memory of the performer of one of the main roles in the film, the esteemed Khoshim Arslonov, who did not live to see the premiere and could not share today’s holiday with us,” commented Firdavs Abdukhalikov, Director General of the Cinematography Agency of Uzbekistan.

He added that the screening of the film "Flight 101" has already taken place in Kashkadarya, as part of cultural and educational events initiated by the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev. And today the film is shown to the Tashkent audience.

Flight 101 is a film that proves that real heroes are always among us. This film is about courage, professionalism and fortitude not only of the crew of the aircraft, but also of ordinary people who, in the face of danger, mobilize and reveal their best human sides, said Akrom Shokhnazarov, director of the film.

The film is based on a true story. The prototype of the protagonist, pilot, Hero of Uzbekistan Zarif Saidazimov was also present at the premiere. The filmmakers paid tribute to the main character, leaving his first and last name unchanged. It was he who made the historic and heroic flight on September 11, 2001, which formed the basis of the film.

In a solemn atmosphere at the premiere of the film Flight 101 Zarif Saidazimov was presented with flowers. Loud applause sounded in his honor.

“It was nice to be at the premiere of the film today, to see so many people in the hall and feel their support. And, of course, we are glad that a whole film has been shot about this landmark flight,” said Zarif Saidazimov.

The actor of the film, Umid Iskandarov, also shared his opinion.

“The day of the premiere is a long-awaited day, it is a holiday for any actor, for the entire film crew. I was really looking forward to the premiere of the film, as its story is very dear to me. In my filmography, the film Flight 101 occupies a special place. At least in terms of duration. They were the longest and one of the most interesting,” said Umid Iskandarov.