The aviation administrations of Uzbekistan and South Korea have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Seoul, aimed at enhancing bilateral air travel and fostering tourism between the two countries.

As a result of the negotiations, several key agreements have been reached. Firstly, the MoU removes previous restrictions on the number of airlines permitted to operate between Uzbekistan and South Korea. This change is expected to facilitate greater connectivity between the nations.

Additionally, the agreement allows for an increase in the number of regular flights between the two nations from 10 to 24 per week for each country’s airlines. This decision aligns with the state-level policy of attracting foreign tourists to Uzbekistan, facilitating a total of 48 flights per week.

The agreements also specify that up to 12 flights per week will operate between Tashkent and Seoul. Furthermore, up to four flights per week will be available from various regions of Korea to Tashkent, and the same number of flights will operate from Uzbekistan’s regions to Seoul.

A notable feature of the MoU is the introduction of a special “Open Skies” regime at the international airports of Jeju in South Korea and Samarkand in Uzbekistan, which will benefit the airlines of both nations.

These agreements are expected to enhance trade and economic relations between Uzbekistan and South Korea. They aim to increase the volume of passenger, cargo, and goods turnover while attracting more Korean tourists to Uzbekistan’s historical cities.

Previously, it was announced that several new airlines from Uzbekistan are gearing up to commence regular flights to South Korea, enhancing air connectivity between the two nations. Among the new airlines poised to launch flights to South Korea are Air Samarkand, Qanot Sharq, and My Freighter (operating under the Centrum Air brand). Uzbekistan Airways will also maintain its flight operations.