Centrum Air Launches Direct Karachi-Tashkent Flights, Boosting Regional Connectivity

KARACHI — Direct air travel between Pakistan’s financial hub and Central Asia expanded on Wednesday as Uzbekistan’s private carrier, Centrum Air, officially launched non-stop flight operations connecting Tashkent and Karachi.

The inaugural flight, operated with an Airbus A320 aircraft, touched down at Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport at 4:20 a.m. local time. In line with civil aviation tradition, the aircraft was honored with a ceremonial water-cannon salute upon landing.

High-Profile Welcome at Karachi Airport

A formal welcoming ceremony hosted at the airport brought together senior officials from the Sindh provincial administration, local municipal authorities, members of the diplomatic corps based in Karachi, executives from the Sindh Tourism Development Corporation (STDC), airline officials, tour operators, and media representatives.

Addressing the gathering, Sindh government representatives hailed the direct route as a major milestone, describing it as another tangible step by Uzbekistan to draw both nations closer together. Officials noted that the air link will play a vital role in stimulating tourism, facilitating bilateral commercial ties, and strengthening business diplomacy.

Key Takeaways of the New Air Link

• Expanded Connectivity: The new service elevates total direct flight frequencies between Pakistan and Uzbekistan to eight flights per week.

• Aircraft Deployed: Scheduled services are operated using modern Airbus A320 aircraft.

• Economic & Cultural Impact: Eliminates long regional layovers, providing direct access for business delegations, pilgrims, and tourists exploring Central Asia’s historic Silk Road hubs.

With direct access between Karachi and Tashkent now operational, both countries anticipate accelerated growth in trade, investment, and bilateral tourism exchanges.