The inaugural direct flight from Mumbai to Tashkent by Uzbekistan Airways marks a new era in India-Uzbekistan connectivity, enhancing trade, tourism, and cultural exchanges.
The inaugural direct flight from Mumbai to Tashkent was officially launched, bridging the Indian subcontinent with Central Asia. This landmark service was flagged off by Mr Sardor Rustambaev, the Honorable Ambassador of the Embassy of the Republic of Uzbekistan in New Delhi, and Mr Vijay Kalantri, the Honorary Consul of the Republic of Uzbekistan, heralding a new era of connectivity between the two nations.
Operated by Uzbekistan Airways JSC, the national carrier of Uzbekistan, the new service will feature twice-weekly flights directly linking Mumbai with Tashkent. The schedule includes a Tuesday flight departing Mumbai at 5:40 am to arrive in Tashkent at 9:10 am local time. The return leg from Tashkent is set for 11:20 pm, reaching Mumbai at 4:10 am local time. Additionally, a Saturday service departs Mumbai at 3:05 pm, landing in Tashkent at 6:35 pm local time, with the return journey beginning at 8:50 am from Tashkent to arrive in Mumbai at 1:40 pm local time.
This connection is not only a testament to the growing relations between India and Uzbekistan but also a strategic move to enhance trade, tourism, and cultural exchanges. Uzbekistan Airways has been connecting New Delhi to Tashkent for over two decades, offering daily flights with onward connections to Europe, the USA, the Middle East, and all of Central Asia. The introduction of the Mumbai-Tashkent route, operated by the modern A320 Neo aircraft, promises to further streamline travel between these two vibrant cities.
“The allure of Uzbekistan lies in its blend of ancient Silk Road wonders and Soviet-era legacies, offering travellers an enchanting atmosphere replete with architectural marvels,” remarked Mr. Sardor Rustambaev during the launch.
The direct flights are expected to bolster the growing trade and commerce between India and Uzbekistan and attract tourists to the unique cultural and architectural fusion that Uzbekistan offers. From the bustling markets filled with handicrafts, ceramics, and textiles to the majestic cities of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva, Uzbekistan presents a rich tapestry of history and heritage awaiting exploration.
Mr. Vijay Kalantri highlighted the cultural exchange aspect, noting, “These flights open up a gateway to one of the most captivating destinations in Central Asia and facilitate access for Uzbekistan’s people to the film capital of India, known for its colourful, hectic, and dynamic life.”
With the introduction of these direct flights, travelling from the heart of Bollywood to the ancient crossroads of civilizations has become more accessible, promising to forge stronger ties and mutual understanding between the two countries. This air bridge signifies a step towards closer collaboration and shared prosperity, offering travellers and businesses alike a seamless journey to discover the rich heritage and promising opportunities that lie in both nations.
