New flights have been launched at a UK airport after millions began to flock to a country in central Asia.  London Gatwick has responded to growing passenger demand for flights to central Asia with a new service to Tashkent, Uzbekistan, operated by airline Qanot Sharq.

The twice-weekly flight, which commenced on December 15, offers passengers across London and the South East more options to connect directly to the region. London Gatwick saw passenger numbers to central Asia increase by 25% year-on-year (July-September), with tourism in the region at an all-time high. Uzbekistan specifically has seen tourist numbers increase from just over two million in 2017 to more than 10 million last year. Uzbekistan Airways already offers non-stop flights to Tashkent, while Azerbaijan Airlines operates from London Gatwick to Baku. Turkmenistan Airlines also provides the only direct connection between the UK and Ashgabat. Jonathan Pollard, chief commercial officer at  London Gatwick, said: “Central Asia has been a strong performer at London Gatwick this year, so we’re delighted to welcome Qanot Sharq to support this growing demand.

“This is the fourth central Asian airline since March 2024 to join our network and provide excellent connectivity to the region. Qanot Sharq’s arrival is fantastic news for passengers who will benefit from more choice and competition.” 

Moisey Pak, director general of Qanot Sharq, said: “The launch of our first flight to London Gatwick on December 15 marks an important milestone in the development of our airline and Uzbekistan’s private aviation sector. 

“Becoming the first private airline in the country to operate services to Gatwick reflects our long-term strategy to expand our international route network. 

“We are pleased to offer passengers regular air services between Uzbekistan and the United Kingdom with a frequency of twice weekly, ensuring convenient and reliable travel options.”

London Gatwick recently announced Jet2 – one of the UK’s largest airlines – will start flying from the airport in March 2026, with 29 routes on offer. 

Air Arabia will also be flying twice daily to Sharjah, UAE, from March while German carrier Condor has secured slots and will be flying three times a day to Frankfurt from next April. 

In addition, Air France recently announced two flights per day between London Gatwick and Paris Charles de Gaulle from March, while Skybus now connects passengers daily between London Gatwick and Cornwall Airport Newquay.