Armenia's Shirak Avia launches direct Yerevan–Tashkent flights

Direct air travel between the capitals of Armenia and Uzbekistan has resumed for the first time in decades following the launch of a new passenger service by Armenian carrier Shirak Avia.

Photo: Uzbekistan Airports

The airline officially commenced regular scheduled flights on the Yerevan–Tashkent–Yerevan route. The inaugural flight from Yerevan touched down at Tashkent International Airport on June 2, carrying 127 passengers. In line with aviation tradition, the aircraft was greeted on the tarmac with a ceremonial water arch, while the flight crew received a floral welcome from local officials.

Later that same day, Tashkent International Airport hosted an official opening ceremony for passenger registration ahead of the return leg. The debut flight from Tashkent to Yerevan departed with a full load of 177 passengers.

Uzbekistan Airports reported that the direct flights are scheduled to operate once a week using Boeing 737 aircraft.

The launch marks a significant shift for travelers between the two countries. Previously, passengers flying between Tashkent and Yerevan had to rely on indirect routes, navigating lengthy layovers in transit hubs such as Moscow, Istanbul, or Tbilisi.