🌍 Uzbekistan Abruptly Revises Business Aviation Landing Rules, Reshaping Tashkent Operations
Per AIN (April 8, 2026), Uzbekistan has mandated the transfer of business aviation traffic from Tashkent's main international airport (UTTT) to Tashkent East Airport, with private aircraft no longer permitted to use the primary facility. Authorities have framed this as part of a broader aviation infrastructure upgrade, but the effective date, transition arrangements, and any exemptions for medical or government flights have not been disclosed. Ramp capacity, fuel availability, and customs/entry facilities at the alternate airport remain independently unverified. The policy shift directly impacts trip support providers operating Central Asian routes, particularly those with established networks at Tashkent.
Impact: Ground handling capabilities at the new airport are unproven, raising the risk of operational disruptions during the transition. Lack of policy transparency increases flight planning uncertainty and will drive up costs for diversions and contingency handling.
Recommendation: Operators and trip support companies planning Tashkent operations before May 2026 should confirm ramp availability, fuel supply, and customs procedures at Tashkent East Airport at least 72 hours prior to departure. Directly query the Uzbekistan Civil Aviation Authority on the scope of any applicable exemptions to avoid landing denials caused by information gaps.