Uzbekistan and China expand aviation links with new Tashkent–Hangzhou service

On March 31, a formal ceremony was held at Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport to mark the inauguration of a new flight route between Tashkent – Hangzhou. Operated by the airline Qanot Sharq, the service aims to broaden the aviation connectivity between Uzbekistan and China while fostering increased tourism and business exchanges.

Photo: Dunyo

The event was attended by representatives of Qanot Sharq, officials from the Consulate General of Uzbekistan, and the management of Hangzhou Xiaoshan International Airport. According to the current schedule, flights will be operated twice a week – on Tuesdays and Saturdays. This new service complements existing operations on this route, as Uzbekistan Airways has been providing regular flights between the two cities since November 2024.

During the ceremony, Chinese officials emphasized that the establishment of direct air communication between Tashkent and Hangzhou opens fresh opportunities for strengthening trade and economic cooperation, as well as developing cultural exchange. Hangzhou is a vital economic and technological center in China and plays a leading role in the global e-commerce ecosystem. Its international airport, which served over 50 million passengers in 2025, is among the world's largest aviation hubs and holds a prominent position in East China.

The new route is considered highly significant for developing business ties and expanding logistical capabilities, providing entrepreneurs with better access to new markets. Uzbek representatives noted that the flight creates favorable conditions for increasing tourist flows. It offers Uzbek citizens more convenient access to various Chinese regions, while Chinese tourists can more easily explore the rich cultural and historical heritage of Uzbekistan.