President Serdar Berdimuhamedov Inaugurates Jebel International Airport in Balkan Velayat
Ashgabat, The Gulf Observer: President of Turkmenistan Serdar Berdimuhamedov on Friday presided over the official opening of the new Jebel International Airport, a strategic infrastructure project located in the country’s western Balkan velayat. The inauguration ceremony, widely covered by Turkmenistan’s official media, marks a significant milestone in the nation’s ongoing efforts to modernize its transportation and logistics network.
Constructed by the private Turkmen company Gündogdy under the commission of the Türkmenhowaýollary aviation agency, the facility is designed to handle up to 100 passengers per hour. Gündogdy is recognized for its expertise in complex transport infrastructure development, underscoring the government’s commitment to partnering with domestic enterprises in advancing national infrastructure.
Located 20 kilometers northwest of Balkanabat and just 4 kilometers from the well-known Mollagara mud therapy resort, the new airport is expected to improve regional accessibility, enhance health tourism, and serve as a catalyst for socio-economic growth in the western region.
The inauguration of Jebel International Airport is seen as a key component in the revival of the historic Amul–Khazar segment of the ancient Silk Road. Reimagined for the 21st century, the segment is being developed as a modern east–west air corridor linking major cities including Turkmenabat, Ashgabat, Balkanabat, and Turkmenbashi.
Strategically situated near the Ashgabat–Turkmenbashi highway and railway lines, the airport is poised to become a critical logistics hub. Plans are also underway for the construction of a railway station in Jebel to further reinforce multimodal transport connectivity.
In addition to serving passenger traffic, the airport includes a cargo terminal with a throughput capacity of 200 tons. This capability is expected to significantly reduce cargo handling times, facilitate smoother transit, and expand Turkmenistan’s access to global trade routes.
The launch of Jebel International Airport reflects the Turkmen government’s broader strategy to position the country as a vital transit and logistics corridor in Eurasia, enhancing regional integration and economic diversification.
