President Mirziyoyev Unveils Bold Plan to Revolutionize Uzbekistan’s Aviation
Tashkent, The Gulf Observer: President Shavkat Mirziyoyev spearheaded a comprehensive presentation today, unveiling strategic initiatives aimed at revolutionizing the state-owned enterprises in Uzbekistan’s aviation sector. The President emphasized the need for a holistic approach to propel the industry forward, focusing on infrastructure development, efficient management, competitive pricing, and service quality enhancements.
In recent years, significant strides have been made in opening up opportunities for the private sector within the aviation services market. The total number of airlines has surged to 15, with ten of them being private entities. The acquisition of 28 new aircraft last year contributed to a doubling of the number of flights over the past seven years. Notably, the privatization of Samarkand airport resulted in a remarkable fourfold increase in passenger traffic, reaching a milestone of one million.
However, the growth in aviation services recorded a modest 11.6 percent last year, falling short of the ambitious targets outlined in Uzbekistan’s 2030 strategy. President Mirziyoyev stressed that achieving the fourfold increase in air transportation requires an annual growth rate of at least 20 percent. Recognizing the challenges, he outlined the critical areas for systemic improvement, including infrastructure, management efficiency, pricing structures, and service quality.
One of the key announcements pertained to the initiation of international credit rating processes for the national airline, Uzbekistan Airways, and its subsequent entry into an Initial Public Offering (IPO). Additionally, plans were unveiled to modernize and transfer control of airports in Bukhara, Namangan, Urgench, and Andijan to private entities, thus boosting efficiency and service standards.
The President articulated specific measures for the ongoing year, focusing on accelerating the transformation of Uzbekistan Airways and Uzbekistan Airports joint stock companies. This includes a targeted 20 percent increase in the number of flights, a substantial reduction in industry costs, and the divestment of outdated, fuel-inefficient aircraft in favor of modern alternatives.
Furthermore, the government aims to optimize fuel consumption by identifying optimal flight routes for 72 destinations. Unused and unprofitable assets will be put up for sale, contributing to a more streamlined and competitive aviation sector.
President Mirziyoyev issued directives to responsible authorities to approve a comprehensive cost reduction program, enhance service competitiveness, and expedite private partnership projects. The emphasis on attracting foreign qualified specialists to state-owned airlines and improving personnel training underscores the commitment to raising industry standards.
In summary, the unveiled measures reflect a concerted effort to propel Uzbekistan’s aviation sector into a new era of growth, efficiency, and international competitiveness. The President expressed confidence that these initiatives will position the country as a regional aviation hub, meeting the increasing demand for air travel and fostering economic development.
