The first passengers on the new direct flight route between Trabzon and Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan, were warmly welcomed with a ceremony at Trabzon Airport. The group of 177 travellers arrived as a symbol of Uzbek-Turkish friendship and cultural ties.
Water Salute and Folk Dance Performances
The flight, organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Türkiye Tourism Promotion and Development Agency, the Trabzon Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism, the Trabzon Hotels Association, and a Tashkent-based tour operator, brought new energy to the region’s tourism. Upon arrival from Tashkent, the aircraft was greeted with a traditional water salute. As passengers disembarked, waving the flags of Türkiye, Uzbekistan, and Trabzonspor, they were welcomed with folk dance performances. Guests were also presented with flowers, traditional scarves (keşan), and local delicacies.
Governor Yıldırım: “This is not just a flight, it’s a bridge of brotherhood”
Speaking at the welcome ceremony, Trabzon Governor Aziz Yıldırım emphasised that Uzbekistan is one of Türkiye’s brother nations, saying: “I wish this initiative great success. I thank everyone who contributed to establishing these mutual flights. These connections will further strengthen the bond between our peoples.”
Governor Yıldırım stated that the flights would take place every Saturday, with return journeys on the same day, adding: “I hope this expands to several flights per week. This way, the beauty of our Trabzon will be introduced to Central Asia more widely.”
Şen: “We embrace our brothers from Uzbekistan”
AK Party Deputy Chairman and Trabzon MP Mustafa Şen also spoke at the ceremony, saying, “These flights offer major opportunities for tourism in both countries. But this is more than just a journey; it’s like walking from one room to another in the same home. We are two sides of the Turkic world. We carry our Uzbek brothers with the highest honour.”
Growing Interest in Trabzon
Provincial Director of Culture and Tourism Tamer Erdoğan noted a significant increase in interest following the Trabzon Promotion Days held in Tashkent on April 9–10. “Uzbek tourists were enchanted by Trabzon’s nature and sea. Last year, without direct flights, we recorded 3,300 overnight stays. This year, our goal is at least double that,” he said.
Flights to Continue Until 20 September
The Tashkent–Trabzon direct flights are scheduled to continue until 20 September 2025. This development is expected to greatly contribute to strengthening the fraternal ties between the two countries and diversifying tourism in the Black Sea region.
