Urgench Airport to be modernized at $264 million cost: capacity will more than quadruple

The $264 million modernization of Urgench Airport will more than quadruple its capacity.

On August 17, Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev reviewed plans for the reconstruction of Urgench International Airport.

The airport complex expansion and modernization project will cost $264 million. It is being implemented through a public-private partnership with the South Korean company Incheon International Airport Corporation.

The first phase of the reconstruction includes the construction of an apron for 18 aircraft and a new taxiway. The airport will be equipped to handle wide-body aircraft such as the Boeing 747 and Airbus A350, enabling the launch of direct long-haul flights to Khorezm.

In addition, the airport will feature modern border and visa control points, a business lounge, retail and catering outlets, a 24-hour medical center, and a duty-free shopping area.

Upon completion of the project, the airport's capacity will increase from 300 to 1,300 passengers per hour.

The President emphasized that Urgench and Khiva are becoming hubs for international summits, diplomatic meetings, and economic and cultural forums. The development of airport infrastructure is intended to improve comfort and safety for foreign visitors and strengthen Khorezm's tourism potential.

Currently, approximately 10 airlines operate regular flights through Urgench International Airport. This year alone, the airport provided services worth 126 billion soums, a 31% increase over the same period in 2025.