Turkmenistan Airlines boosts flights to Seoul, Milan and Istanbul

Turkmenistan Airlines boosts flights to Seoul, Milan and Istanbul
An airplane flies across the sky with a blooming tree in the foreground, Borgloon, Belgium, 7 April 2026.
Reuters

Turkmenistan Airlines has increased flights to key international destinations, including Seoul, Milan, Kazan and Istanbul, as the Central Asian country moves to meet rising travel demand and strengthen its global aviation links.

The airline introduced its expanded international flight schedule on 25 October, adding weekly services to four major destinations.

“Direct flights from the capital to Seoul will double from one to two flights per week. On the Italian route to Milan, flight frequency will increase from two to three flights per week,” the state-run Turkmenistan News Portal said ahead of the changes.

“Regular flights on the Ashgabat–Kazan route will increase from four to six flights per week. Additionally, air service to Istanbul will be expanded, with total flight frequency reaching 13 flights per week compared to the previous 12,” the news site reported.

More flights to key international destinations

The revised timetable also covers return services to Ashgabat International Airport and aims to accommodate growing passenger demand while strengthening Turkmenistan's connections to international aviation networks.

However, not all routes will see an increase. Weekly flights to New Delhi are expected to drop from three to two, according to Turkmen media.

Services to Beijing, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, London and Frankfurt will continue at their existing frequencies.

The expansion comes as Turkmenistan invests in airport infrastructure to attract more international carriers and develop its air cargo sector.

In August, Air Belgium operated its first cargo flight to Ashgabat International Airport, marking another step in the country's efforts to establish itself as a cargo hub connecting Asia and Europe.

Central Asia expands aviation links

Other Central Asian countries are also working to strengthen international air connectivity. Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan have taken steps to expand their aviation links, while Tajikistan is pursuing closer cooperation with the United Arab Emirates.

Earlier this month, Tajikistan's lower house of parliament approved an air transport agreement with the United Arab Emirates.

The agreement is expected to pave the way for additional flights between the two countries, supporting Tajikistan's efforts to expand its international aviation connections.

Read more: 

Tags