Uzbekistan has completed construction of a major new aviation facility designed to enhance the country’s appeal to international business and streamline high-level diplomatic and commercial visits. President Shavkat Mirziyoyev visited the newly operational Tashkent-Eastern Airport on August 27, marking the successful completion of an eight-year infrastructure project that positions the Central Asian nation as a more accessible destination for foreign investors and business delegations.
Strategic infrastructure expansion overcomes pandemic challenges
The facility transformation began in 2017 on the site of a former military transport aviation base, covering 561 hectares. Despite facing pandemic-related disruptions and other logistical obstacles, the project reached completion this year. The centerpiece is a reconstructed 4-kilometer runway with three taxiways, engineered to accommodate the heaviest commercial aircraft categories.
The airport conducted its inaugural technical flights on the day of the presidential visit, successfully hosting a government Boeing 767 followed by a Pilatus PC-24 business jet and helicopters. These test operations demonstrated the facility’s readiness to serve its intended role in supporting both official state functions and private sector aviation needs.
Specialized terminals target high-value business segments
The complex features purpose-built VIP and CIP terminals designed to process official delegations and business travelers efficiently. The CIP terminal can handle up to 100 passengers per hour and includes retail spaces and dining facilities. For government and diplomatic use, the VIP terminal provides dedicated areas for official meetings and negotiations.
Supporting infrastructure includes a 20-aircraft apron and modern hangars capable of housing Boeing 787s, Airbus A320s, business jets, and helicopters. The facility operates with ICAO Category III-A radio technical and meteorological systems, enabling operations in challenging weather conditions that could previously disrupt business travel schedules.
“After long preparation, we have built a new airport that will provide a high level of service for guests of our country. May new structures strengthen our well-being and serve the people, and may peace always reign in the country,” President Mirziyoyev stated during the facility tour.
Relief for overcrowded main airport creates business opportunities
The new facility addresses capacity constraints at Tashkent’s primary international airport while establishing the capital and the planned New Tashkent development as a more accessible business destination. The strategic location is expected to generate employment opportunities and facilitate smoother international business operations.
This infrastructure investment represents a significant opportunity for international companies in furniture manufacturing, construction, interior design, and architecture sectors. The enhanced aviation access reduces travel complexity for business delegations, trade missions, and technical teams conducting market research or establishing operations in Uzbekistan. For companies evaluating Central Asian market entry strategies, the improved connectivity eliminates a traditional barrier to conducting business in the region. The facility’s focus on business aviation particularly benefits sectors requiring frequent executive travel for relationship building, project oversight, and quality control — essential elements for furniture brands, construction firms, and design companies establishing supply chains or partnerships in this emerging market.
