Air Arabia returns to Kyrgyzstan, considers network expansion

Image: Airbus

Following a one-year hiatus, Emirati low-cost carrier (LCC) Air Arabia is resuming scheduled flights from Sharjah to Kyrgyzstan’s two largest cities. The airline is also exploring the launch of new routes to the Central Asian republic’s key tourism hubs.

The agreement to restore air connectivity was reached during a meeting between Manasbek Samidinov, Chairman of the Board of the state-run management company Airports of Kyrgyzstan, and a delegation from the UAE.

Under the terms of the agreement, flights between Sharjah and Bishkek are scheduled to launch on July 3, with the carrier also planning to reinstate its Sharjah–Osh route.

Beyond restoring the legacy network, the two parties discussed further expanding the flight geography between Kyrgyzstan and the UAE. Specifically, Air Arabia is considering direct flights from Sharjah to Issyk-Kul International Airport (Tamchy) for the summer 2026 season. The partners are currently finalizing the operational parameters of the upcoming program, including launch dates and flight frequencies, according to Airports of Kyrgyzstan.

Additionally, the introduction of a direct Sharjah–Karakol route is under discussion for the winter 2026–2027 season. This new destination is expected to generate an additional influx of tourists from the Gulf region to Kyrgyzstan’s ski resorts.

Airports of Kyrgyzstan noted that the growing interest from foreign carriers and the creation of favorable conditions for tourism development are directly driven by the extensive modernization of the country’s regional airport infrastructure.

Air Arabia previously operated flights to Kyrgyzstan until June 2025. Services were temporarily suspended due to airspace restrictions in the Middle East introduced amid the escalation of the conflict between Israel and Iran.

CentralAsia+ Aero earlier reported: Kyrgyz jet fuel operator commissions new refueling complex at Bishkek airport.

CentralAsia+ Aero earlier reported: Asman Airlines to connect four Kyrgyz cities with Uzbek capital.

CentralAsia+ Aero earlier reported: Chengdu Airlines launches Kashgar–Osh, Kyrgyzstan service on Comac C909.