Flykhiva, Uzbekistan’s cargo carrier, has begun regular freight operations on the Tashkent – Riga route, establishing a direct air bridge between Central Asia and the European Union. The airline will operate weekly flights on this newly established corridor, marking a significant expansion of the region’s logistics infrastructure.
Shipping commercial goods and e-commerce orders across borders
The route focuses on moving Uzbek export products, postal and commercial shipments destined for EU markets, as well as packages ordered through major Chinese e-commerce platforms including TEMU and AliExpress. By positioning Riga as a distribution hub, Flykhiva is tapping into the growing demand from European consumers for faster, more direct access to Central Asian goods and international online marketplace orders.
Flykhiva currently operates a single Boeing 767-300 cargo aircraft on this route. The airline plans to expand its fleet during 2026 by leasing two Boeing 757 aircraft and an additional Boeing 767, signaling confidence in the route’s commercial viability and plans for increased capacity.
Gateway to European markets reshapes regional logistics strategy
The Tashkent – Riga connection represents a strategic pivot for Uzbekistan’s transport and logistics sector. By establishing direct air connectivity to Latvia, the country gains faster access to EU customs procedures and distribution networks. This air corridor supplements existing overland and rail routes, offering shippers an alternative when road borders face congestion or administrative delays – a growing concern across the region’s trade infrastructure.
The initiative aligns with broader trends in Central Asian logistics. According to recent data, Uzbekistan’s export shipments grew 29 percent in 2025, with particularly strong momentum toward diversifying transportation routes away from traditional corridors. Domestic freight volumes surged 79 percent year-over-year, driven by industrial production growth, underscoring the region’s expanding capacity and trade velocity.
Official backing signals commitment to transport corridor development
Latvia’s deputy transport minister Andulīs Žigurs noted that the direct cargo route represents further strengthening of Uzbekistan’s position as a key logistics hub in Central Asia. He characterized the new air service as evidence of deepening transport – logistics cooperation between the two nations and as a foundation for strengthening trade – economic ties between Central Asia and the European Union. The inaugural flight ceremony on January 26 included participation from Riga International Airport leadership and Latvia’s postal and customs authorities, underscoring the route’s logistical importance to the country’s supply chain infrastructure.
Implications for international business actors
For furniture, textiles, home appliances, and other Central Asian manufacturers targeting European markets, this development opens new export possibilities. The weekly Tashkent – Riga link reduces transit times compared to ground-based logistics chains and provides another option during periods of overland route congestion. International logistics operators, e-commerce platforms, and distributors sourcing from or selling into Central Asia gain expanded flexibility in managing cargo flows. The route’s focus on high-frequency, regularly scheduled service makes it particularly attractive for time-sensitive shipments and businesses operating through international online platforms. As Flykhiva expands its fleet, capacity constraints should ease, potentially moderating freight rates and encouraging increased trading activity across the region’s business-to-Europe corridors.
