Uzbekistan’s Air Samarkand has announced the launch of its latest international route, introducing a direct weekly service between Samarkand and Tel Aviv starting 4th May 2025. The new route will operate every Sunday using an Airbus A321 aircraft, aiming to strengthen growing business and tourism links between Uzbekistan and Israel.
Flights will depart Samarkand at 6:00 AM, landing in Tel Aviv at 9:25 AM local time after a 5.5-hour journey. The return leg will leave Tel Aviv at 11:20 AM and arrive in Samarkand by 6:40 PM local time.
“This new route marks an important milestone in building stronger ties between our two nations,” said Zafar Butayev, CEO of Air Samarkand. “We’re seeing rising demand from business travelers, tourists, and pilgrims seeking a competitive and convenient connection between these culturally significant cities.”
The move aligns with broader efforts to deepen Uzbekistan–Israel cooperation, following Israel’s support for Uzbekistan’s World Trade Organization membership in 2024 and recent bilateral discussions on expanding labour migration and economic collaboration.
The direct flights will offer Israeli travelers streamlined access to Samarkand—a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the jewel of the Silk Road—while providing new opportunities for Israeli businesses to engage with Uzbekistan’s emerging markets.
This launch is part of Air Samarkand’s broader international expansion strategy, which includes increasing flight frequencies and growing its destination portfolio in 2025. The airline is also investing in fleet modernization and customer service upgrades as it aims to become a leading carrier in Central Asia.
