The acceleration of domestic tourism and the citizens' active engagement with the cultural-historical heritage and natural resources are crucial factors in the sustainable socio-economic development of the regions of Uzbekistan.

Of course, issues related to transport are considered necessary in the development of the tourism industry.

– The President has adopted several documents on the development of tourism, – says the Minister of Transport of the Republic of Uzbekistan Ilkhom Mahkamov. – Special emphasis is placed on domestic tourism. Tasks have been set to organize air transportation to remote regions with attractions.

A small airfield for citizens to use tourism opportunities within Uzbekistan is again operating in Kokand. It was built in 1977, but then it was used only for the Air Force. After the modernization, it was again possible to accept civilian flights. Corridors for aircraft up to the Airbus A320 category have been repaired and put into operation here. Daily flights of small L-410 plane were carried out. With the beginning of the tourist season, daily flights of the ATR 72 Silk Avia for 70 people will be launched. The terminal can serve 100 people. If it becomes necessary to fly larger aircraft, it is possible to expand the runways.

More than 300,000 people live in the city and its surroundings. Now, the airport will connect not only Kokand residents with Tashkent but also the entire region. Such opportunities have been created not only in Kokand but also in many other cities of Uzbekistan, in particular in Zaamin.

Interviewed by Abdulaziz Rustamov, UzA