Uzbekistan-based carrier Qanot Sharq Airlines has debuted direct flights between the new Samarkand International Airport and Istanbul.

The inaugural flight to Istanbul took off on Thursday following a ceremony attended by the Republic of Turkey’s Consul General in Samarkand Salih Caner and First Deputy Head of the Main Department of Culture and Tourism of the Samarkand Region Dilshod Narzikulov.

Management of both Air Marakanda, operator of Samarkand International Airport, and Qanot Sharq were also there to see the flight off.

Maria Sharavina, deputy general director, communications, for Air Marakanda, said: “We are pleased to welcome Qanot Sharq Airlines, whose direct flights between the ancient city of Samarkand and Istanbul mark a major new step for Uzbekistan aviation and tourism.

“Qanot Sharq Airlines already services a number of destinations, including Tel Aviv. But the new Istanbul link will expand the opportunities for both direct flights between Uzbekistan and Turkey, and for new international connections via Istanbul.”

Flights from Samarkand to Istanbul will operate three times a week, departing at 7am on Tuesdays, and at 8am on Thursdays and Saturdays.

Flights from Istanbul to Samarkand will depart at 12:40 pm on Tuesdays, and at 11:40 am local time on Thursdays and Saturdays.

Qanot Sharq Airlines will operate using Airbus 321 aircraft for the flights, with ticket prices starting at US$208 one way.