Turkmenistan Airlines prolongs Moscow flight suspension through March

Turkmenistan Airlines has extended the suspension of its Ashgabat-Moscow-Ashgabat flights until at least March 2025, citing operational reasons.

Turkmenistan Airlines has announced that it is extending the suspension of its Ashgabat-Moscow-Ashgabat flights until at least March 2025. The national carrier has not provided a specific reason for the extension.

The suspension, which began in late December 2024, was initially slated to last only until January 31, 2025. However, the airline has now confirmed that the flight disruption will continue into the spring. Passengers holding tickets for the affected routes are advised to check with the airline for further updates and alternative arrangements.

This is not the first time Turkmenistan Airlines has suspended its flights to Moscow. In August 2023, the airline halted its Moscow-bound services, citing concerns about the regional airspace situation and flight safety risks. This move followed reports from the Russian Defense Ministry about the interception of a drone in the Moscow region, further heightening tensions surrounding flight safety.

As of January 15, 2025, S7 Airlines is the only carrier operating regular flights between Russia and Turkmenistan. The Russian airline has increased its frequency on the Moscow-Ashgabat route to 14 flights per week, providing a continued connection between the two countries.

In addition to the suspension by Turkmenistan Airlines, Uzbekistan Airways has made changes to its European routes. Since January 20, 2025, the airline has opted to bypass Russian and Belarusian airspace in favor of routes through Azerbaijan and Turkey. This decision follows the tragic crash of an Azerbaijan Airlines flight in Aktau on December 25, 2024, which prompted a safety review by the Uzbek government. The routes were adjusted following recommendations made by a special commission led by Uzbekistan's Prime Minister.

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