Construction of a new international airport in Tashkent is planned to begin in June 2026, with preparatory earthworks already underway in the designated project area, as to the Ministry of Transport of Uzbekistan in an
interview for Daryo.
The project is being developed as a public-private partnership and is estimated to have a total cost of around $4.5bn across its stages. In the initial phase, the state component includes the construction of the airfield infrastructure, including two runways and an air navigation services building. The private partner is expected to develop key terminal facilities, including cargo handling infrastructure, maintenance buildings, and the main passenger terminal, with initial investments estimated at approximately $2.5bn.
According to officials, the new airport is designed to significantly increase aviation capacity compared to the existing facility. Passenger throughput is projected to rise substantially, with the new airport expected to handle up to four times the current passenger volume, reaching around 40mn passengers annually.
The relocation of airport infrastructure to the outskirts of the capital is linked to spatial constraints at the current site and operational considerations such as safety, noise management, and long-term expansion requirements. Authorities stated that the existing airport area does not allow for further physical expansion, while the new location provides additional land resources for development.
The broader project includes the creation of an aerotropolis zone adjacent to the airport, covering approximately 1,000 hectares. This development is expected to include commercial facilities, banking and consulting services, aviation-related businesses, logistics infrastructure, warehouses, and production areas. Together with the airport infrastructure, the total development area is planned to cover around 3,000 hectares.
The airport will be developed in cooperation with an international consortium that includes partners from Saudi Arabia, Japan, and the Republic of Korea. In the initial operational phase, the airport is expected to accommodate around 20mn passengers annually and handle significant cargo volumes. Operational capacity is also planned to include up to 30 aircraft movements per hour and parking capacity for more than 60 aircraft.
Transport connectivity is planned through integration with major regional highways linking Tashkent with other parts of the country. A railway connection is also planned, including a modern station and high-speed train services. Shuttle transport links are expected to connect the airport with central areas of the capital and the future New Tashkent development zone.
Authorities also noted that development of the airport and surrounding infrastructure may involve relocation of residents from the project area as part of the broader construction plan.