By our correspondent
KARACHI: Uzbekistan’s Centrum Air has announced the launch of direct flights between Karachi and Tashkent, expanding its presence in Pakistan and strengthening air links between the two countries.
The announcement was made at a launch ceremony hosted by Gerry’s Group at a local hotel and attended by Luqman Rasheed, deputy director general of the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority, along with senior executives from Gerry’s Group and Centrum Air.
Adil Mirza Khalmirzaev, head of sales at Centrum Air, said the Uzbek carrier was among the country’s fastest-growing airlines and was focused on providing safe, reliable and customer-oriented air travel. He said the airline’s expanding international network, centered on its hub in Tashkent, was helping promote tourism, trade and economic cooperation.
From September 3, 2026, Centrum Air will operate non-stop flights between Karachi and Tashkent. The airline said the service would offer passengers a convenient and affordable travel option while providing onward connections to a growing number of international destinations through Tashkent.
The new route is expected to boost business, tourism and cultural exchanges between Pakistan and Uzbekistan, while improving regional connectivity.
Arshad Wali Muhammad, group director of Gerry’s Group, said the partnership brought together two organizations that shared a commitment to professionalism, reliability, innovation and customer service.
He said the companies would work to make both the Lahore and Karachi routes successful and support further growth in travel between Pakistan and Uzbekistan.
Ken Marshall, chief operating officer of Gerry’s Group’s airline division, also highlighted the strategic importance of the partnership and its potential contribution to regional aviation.
Shahbaz M Khan, general manager of marketing at Gerry’s Group’s airline division, outlined the company’s aviation capabilities and nationwide network, reaffirming its commitment to providing international-standard representation and operational support for Centrum Air in Pakistan.
The event ended with a networking session involving travel agencies, corporate partners and aviation industry professionals, followed by a cake-cutting ceremony, lucky draw, souvenir distribution and a hospitality program.
