Silk Way Group, an Azerbaijani conglomerate focused on freight transportation, has unveiled plans for a new cargo airport in the Alat Free Economic Zone.

The new airport will operate under the Silk Way Alat Free Economic Zone Company, a registered entity established to advance Silk Way Group’s logistics and infrastructural initiatives in the region.

The project, announced during COP29, includes the construction of individual forwarder warehouses, state-of-the-art perishables airside facilities, and modern office buildings.

The partnership and the ambitious scope of the airport will create new opportunities for Silk Way Group while contributing significantly to the economic growth of both Azerbaijan and the region as a whole.

Designed as an advanced logistics hub, the airport will include 18 aircraft stands, a 4,000 metre runway and taxiway as well as an air traffic control centre, fuel and fire services, and other related amenities.

The project is not only envisioned to enhance the transportation capabilities of the country but also to stimulate the comprehensive economic development of the surrounding region.

In line with a commitment to environmental responsibility, Silk Way Group says the construction of the new facility will incorporate advanced sustainable technologies, including the utilisation of alternative energy sources, positioning the cargo airport as a beacon of eco-friendly infrastructure.

Upon completion of the project in 2026, the wider Alat Free Economic Zone will become a prominent transit hub, featuring integrated logistics infrastructure. The zone’s facilities will have access to the Baku International Sea Trade Port and extensive railway and motorway networks as well as to the newly built airport, collectively enhancing Azerbaijan’s transportation and distribution capabilities.

Zaur Akhundov, president of Silk Way Group, said: “The establishment of the new cargo airport in the Alat Free Economic Zone represents a significant milestone in the country’s history, signifying a shift towards new opportunities that will effectively address the increasing local and global demand for freight transport.

“This initiative not only bolsters our standing within the Middle Corridor but also opens up new avenues for growth, offering promising prospects for our business, as well as for our valued partners and investors.”

Jawad Dbila, chief executive of Silk Way Alat Free Economic Zone Company, said: “The new cargo airport will serve as a pillar of the Alat Free Economic Zone, transforming our vision for Azerbaijan’s logistics and transportation capabilities into reality. As an official Silk Way entity, our focus is on integrating sustainable practices and advanced infrastructure to enhance connectivity, attract international partnerships, and reinforce Azerbaijan’s role as a transit logistics hub. We look forward to witnessing this project’s impact on our region’s economic landscape and the opportunities it will generate.”

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