Tajikistan's national carrier, Somon Air, has resumed regular flights between Dushanbe (DYU) and Bishkek (FRU)after a four-year hiatus, enhancing regional air connectivity within Central Asia. The first flight on this renewed route took off on March 14.
The airline initially plans to operate the Dushanbe-Bishkek service on a weekly basis using Boeing 737NG aircraft, with an increase to two weekly flights expected in the near future.
Somon Air emphasized that the restored air service is a crucial step in strengthening bilateral relations between Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan, fostering economic and cultural ties, and promoting tourism.
In addition to Somon Air’s expansion, a Bishkek-Khujand route is set to launch in April, operated by Kyrgyzstan-based Asman Airlines, according to the Airports of Kyrgyzstan management company.
"We are confident that the resumption of this route will contribute to improving transport accessibility for citizens of both countries," said Somon Air CEO Abdulkasim Valiev.
As part of its broader growth strategy, the private carrier plans to lease two new Boeing 737MAX-8s next year, further expanding its route network.
In 2023, Somon Air transported over 1mn passengers, marking a 28% increase compared to the previous year.
The airline currently operates a fleet comprising two Boeing 737-900s, four Boeing 737-800s, two Mil Mi-8 heavy helicopters, and one Airbus H125 light helicopter.
Earlier, Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov suggested implementing a unified visa system for Central Asian nations, modeled after the Schengen visa in Europe. He also declared that the long-standing border dispute between Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, unresolved for 101 years, had been settled.
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