Uzbekistan Unveils Plans for New International Airport Near Tashkent by 2030

Uzbekistan is set to construct a new international airport near Tashkent by 2030, as part of a major infrastructure project aimed at transforming the country into a key regional aviation hub.

The project has been recently presented to Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, with investor proposals currently under review, The Caspian Post reports per Kyrgyz media.

Foreign investment offers are being considered under a public-private partnership (PPP) model, as authorities seek strategic partners for the development.

“The construction of a new airport is a necessary measure,” officials emphasized during the presentation. “A 10-year delay could result in an estimated $8.6 billion loss to GDP and cost Uzbekistan the opportunity to establish itself as a regional aviation center.”

The planned site lies 17 kilometers south of the current Tashkent International Airport, strategically located near the road connecting the capital to Samarkand and along the route of the proposed Tashkent-Samarkand highway.

“This location provides optimal transport and logistics infrastructure,” said the minister of transport, citing its accessibility and development potential.

Javlonbek Umarkhojaev, Chairman of the Board of Uzbekistan Airports company, stated that the current Tashkent airport accommodates up to 11 million passengers annually, with a capacity of 17 takeoffs and landings per hour. The apron can simultaneously host up to 70 aircraft.

However, as Uzbekistan’s economy continues growing, annual passenger traffic is projected to increase to 15 million by 2030, prompting the need for expanded infrastructure.

The new airport is expected to significantly enhance Uzbekistan’s aviation capacity. According to Uzbekistan Airports, the future hub will be able to handle up to 169 aircraft at once and support more than 40 takeoffs and landings per hour, positioning the country to meet future regional and international air traffic demands.