Air Cargo Overview
Rapid Development and Future Prospects of Air Cargo in Central Asia, the Caspian Region, and the Caucasus
Air cargo in Central Asia is highly promising due to the region's strategic location, serving as a vital link between Europe and Asia. The ongoing geopolitical shifts are redirecting major cargo flows through Central Asia, enhancing the role of key airports like Tashkent, Astana, Almaty, Bishkek, and others in the region. Additionally, positive developments in infrastructure and economic policies are creating unmatched opportunities for international air cargo carriers to capitalize on this growing market.
Table of Contents
Development of Air Cargo
The Central Asia, the Caspian region, and the Caucasus regions are witnessing a significant transformation in their air cargo sectors, driven by strategic investments, infrastructure enhancements, and international collaborations. This rapid development is underscored by the bi-annual International Central Asia Aviation Summit, which in April 2024 brought together over 200 aviation professionals from around the world to Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan. The summit highlighted the growing importance of civil aviation in the region and received strong support from both government bodies and industry actors. Delegates from Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Armenia, Georgia, and Azerbaijan emphasized the region's burgeoning aviation market, which has grown by 60% since 2017. The 6th Central Asia Aviation Summit is scheduled for September 12, 2024, in Tashkent, the capital of Uzbekistan.
Despite this growth, the Central Asian and Caucasus regions remain underpenetrated, with a large untapped flying population. While international connectivity is improving, the connections between Central Asian countries are still sub-optimal. Currently, 86% of the total airline capacity is allocated within Central Asia, with only 14% dedicated to other regions. Furthermore, 52% of this capacity is concentrated in the top 10 country pairs, indicating significant potential for expansion and optimization.
The overview below is based primarily on information published by CentralAsia+ Aero, one of the most comprehensive sources covering air transport in Central Asia and surrounding regions.
Key Factors Driving Growth
Economic and Political Stability
A favorable economic and political environment is a crucial driver of growth in the air cargo sector. Countries in Central Asia and the Caucasus are increasingly seen as stable and attractive destinations for investment, providing a solid foundation for the expansion of air cargo services.
Infrastructure Development
Significant investments in airport infrastructure are enhancing the region's capacity to handle increased air cargo traffic. For example, Ashgabat Airport in Turkmenistan has been positioned as a major cargo and logistics hub, equipped with modern facilities and staffed by highly qualified personnel. Similarly, Tashkent International Airport in Uzbekistan is expanding its cargo complex, set to quadruple its capacity to 120,000 tons annually by 2025.
Fleet Expansion
Airlines across the region are expanding and modernizing their fleets to meet growing demand. Turkmenistan Airlines has introduced Airbus A330-200P2F freighters, while Silk Way West Airlines in Azerbaijan has bolstered its fleet with Boeing 777 Freighters and plans to add more advanced aircraft. My Freighter in Uzbekistan and AeroStan in Kyrgyzstan are also expanding their fleets with modern freighters, enhancing their operational capabilities.
Strategic Partnerships and International Collaborations
Collaborations with international aviation and logistics companies are crucial for the region's air cargo development. Silk Way West Airlines, for instance, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with China Henan Aviation Group to enhance connectivity between Zhengzhou and Baku. Such partnerships facilitate the efficient movement of goods and strengthen the region's position in global trade networks.
Untapped Market Potential
Despite the rapid growth, the Central Asian and Caucasus regions still have a significant untapped market. The growing middle class and increasing e-commerce activities present substantial opportunities for air cargo services. As the region continues to develop economically, the demand for efficient and reliable cargo transportation is expected to rise, driving further growth in the sector.
Future Prospects
The future prospects for air cargo in Central Asia and the Caucasus are promising. The region is poised to become a major hub for international cargo transportation, leveraging its strategic location between Europe and Asia. Continued investments in infrastructure, fleet expansion, and strategic partnerships will be key to realizing this potential.
Enhancing Connectivity
Improving connectivity between Central Asian countries remains a priority. Enhanced intra-regional connections will facilitate smoother and more efficient cargo movements, reducing transit times and costs. This will also help to integrate the region more closely into the global supply chain.
Leveraging Geopolitical Shifts
Geopolitical changes and the evolving global trade landscape present both challenges and opportunities. By capitalizing on these shifts, the Central Asia and Caucasus regions can position themselves as vital transit points for global trade routes, particularly as they offer alternative pathways for cargo movements between East and West.
Sustainability and Technological Advancements
Investing in sustainable practices and technological advancements will be crucial for the long-term success of the air cargo sector. Airlines in the region are already adopting next-generation aircraft that offer improved fuel efficiency and reduced environmental impact. Continued focus on innovation and sustainability will ensure that the region remains competitive in the global air cargo market.
Soaring into the Future
The air cargo sectors in Central Asia and the Caucasus are on a trajectory of rapid growth and development. With strategic investments, expanding fleets, and international partnerships, these regions are set to become pivotal hubs in the global air cargo network. The favorable economic and political environment, coupled with untapped market potential, presents a bright future for air cargo in Central Asia and the Caucasus, driving economic growth and enhancing global connectivity.
Uzbekistan
1.1 Overview and Statistics
Uzbekistan's air cargo sector has seen substantial growth and development in recent years. In 2022, Uzbekistan's airports processed 80,100 metric tons of cargo and mail, a 62% increase compared to pre-COVID 2019 levels. For 2023, a further 19% increase in freight volume was planned, targeting 95,300 metric tons. This growth is facilitated by significant infrastructure enhancements and strategic partnerships.
Key Infrastructure Developments
Tashkent International Airport Cargo Complex
Tashkent International Airport (TAS) is witnessing major developments with the construction of a modern cargo complex. The intended capacity of the existing terminal is 30,000 tons per year, but the airport is projected to handle about 67,000 tons of cargo and mail in 2024. The new complex will quadruple the airport's cargo capacity to 120,000 tons annually. The first stage, set to be operational by the end of the year, includes an 8,000 square meter cargo terminal and a 3,000 square meter administrative building. The second phase will add another 12,000 square meters of cargo warehouse space by the end of 2025.
Navoi Airport Expansion
Navoi Airport, developed primarily as a cargo hub since the late 2000s, is undergoing significant reconstruction. The management of its cargo terminal has been transferred to Terminals Holding, a Middle Eastern company, which is expected to enhance the airport's capabilities significantly. Recently, Uzbekistan Airports signed an agreement with the Italian provider EU Wings to establish a base maintenance center at Navoi. Additionally, the Ukrainian provider Best MRO has expressed similar plans for Navoi.
Urgench Airport Upgrades
Urgench International Airport (UGC) is undergoing significant upgrades, including a runway overhaul scheduled to start in July 2024. This project will enable the airport to handle wide-body aircraft like the Boeing 787 and Airbus A330, facilitating both passenger and cargo operations. The last major reconstruction of the runway was in 1997, with partial repairs done in 2018.
1.2 Airlines Developments and New Routes
Uzbekistan Airways
Uzbekistan Airways, the country's largest airline, saw a record expansion in 2023 by adding ten new aircraft to its fleet, including five Airbus A320neos, two L-410s, and three ATR-72s. This fleet expansion enabled the airline to achieve a 19% year-on-year increase in passenger traffic, surpassing 5 million passengers for the first time. The airline also transported more than 50,400 tons of cargo and launched ten new routes in 2023.
My Freighter
Initial Acquisitions and Business Model Shift
On November 4, 2022, the Uzbek private company My Freighter took delivery of its first aircraft, a Boeing 747-200F. This marked a significant shift in the business model of My Freighter, which since its inception in 2019 had been acting as the general air cargo agent for Uzbekistan Airways. The acquisition of the 37-year-old aircraft (registered as UK47088) was a pivotal moment for the company, signifying its ambition to operate a fleet of up to 20 freighters within five years. The aircraft was planned to be used on routes connecting China and Southeast Asia with Europe and the United States, positioning Tashkent as a key transit hub.
Expansion with Boeing 767s and New Partnerships
In November 2023, My Freighter expanded its fleet by adding a second aircraft, a Boeing 767-300BCF converted freighter. This addition not only increased the fleet size but also marked the start of a business partnership with the US's Air Transport Services Group (ATSG). The partnership and the new aircraft were expected to enhance the airline's capabilities, providing more reliable and efficient services. The 22-year-old aircraft (MSN 29386), registered locally as UK67009, started flying to the Middle East shortly after its arrival.
By January 2024, My Freighter introduced another Boeing 767-300ER BDSF to its fleet. Leased from ATSG, this aircraft began its inaugural cargo flight to Ostrava, Czech Republic, immediately after its arrival. With this addition, My Freighter's fleet included two converted Boeing 767-300ERs and a Boeing 747-200F.
Route Network Expansion
In February 2024, My Freighter expanded its regular air cargo services to include six weekly flights to Liège, Belgium, a major cargo airport in Europe. This expansion was part of a strategic move to increase the airline's presence in Europe. Starting from March 1, the airline also launched regular weekly routes to Shanghai and Seoul. The focus was on transporting perishable goods and e-commerce items, catering to the growing demand in these sectors.
In March 2024, My Freighter received authorization from the UK Civil Aviation Authority for commercial flights to the UK, becoming the first private Uzbek airline to do so. This milestone allowed the airline to expand its operations in Europe, with cargo flights to Budapest, Hungary, and Ostrava, Czech Republic, already in progress.
Further Fleet Growth and New Services
By March 2024, My Freighter added a third Boeing 767-300BCF to its fleet. The 29-year-old aircraft arrived from Ostrava and made its first commercial flight from Tashkent to Vienna. This expansion reinforced My Freighter's position as Uzbekistan's largest cargo airline by fleet size, with three Boeing 767-300F converted freighters and a Boeing 747-200F.
In July 2024, My Freighter launched new flights to three Chinese cities: Ezhou, Shenzhen, and Shijiazhuang. This expansion was facilitated by the airline receiving a foreign air carrier certificate (CCAR129) from Chinese aviation authorities, allowing unrestricted flights to mainland China. The new routes were part of the airline's strategy to connect key trade hubs along the modern Silk Road, fostering economic growth in the region.
Centrum Air as a Subsidiary
My Freighter also operates a subsidiary, Centrum Air, which focuses on passenger services. In March 2024, My Freighter announced plans to open its own line maintenance station, starting with Airbus A320, which Centrum Air operates, followed by the Boeing 767Fs, which are the core of My Freighter's fleet. This move aims to reduce dependency on Uzbekistan Airways Technics for maintenance services.
Interline Partnerships, Network and Fleet Expansion
In June 2024, My Freighter and Air Europa Cargo announced an interline partnership, allowing both carriers access to each other’s cargo networks across North America, South America, the EU, and Central Asia. This partnership provided My Freighter with access to eight destinations, including Panama City, Cancun, Punta Cana, and Miami, while Air Europa Cargo gained access to Tashkent and Central Asia through My Freighter's trucking network.
In July 2024, My Freighter agreed to lease two additional Boeing 767-300 converted freighters from Air Transport Services Group’s subsidiary Airborne Global Leasing. This addition aimed to expand the airline's ATSG-leased fleet to five 767-300BCFs, further enhancing its capability to connect key trade hubs and facilitating efficient and reliable transportation of goods.
By investing in fleet expansion, developing strategic partnerships, and enhancing infrastructure, My Freighter is well on its way to becoming a major player in the global air cargo industry, driving economic growth and enhancing logistical capabilities in Uzbekistan and beyond.
Fly Khiva
Fly Khiva, a new cargo airline, commenced operations with a Boeing 767-300F freighter leased from Icelandair. The airline plans to add more aircraft to its fleet and has started providing cargo services between Europe and China through Uzbekistan. The carrier's first commercial flight took place on June 25, 2024, from Tashkent to Erbil, Iraq. Fly Khiva has also received approval for flights to Hong Kong and is awaiting permission to operate flights to Europe. The airline plans to establish its own base maintenance center in the future, potentially at Navoi Airport.
1.3 New International Partnerships
Uzbekistan is actively attracting new air cargo carriers. For instance, Chinese cargo airline YTO Cargo Airlines launched scheduled cargo flights to Uzbekistan in June 2024, using the Comac ARJ21-700F regional jet. Additionally, a new cargo terminal is being constructed at Tashkent International Airport, which will be completed by the end of 2024. The Danish cargo airline Maersk Air Cargo began operations at Navoi Airport in March 2023, with flights on the Billund-Navoi-Hangzhou-Navoi-Billund route. Initially operating six flights a week, the frequency is expected to increase to 36 weekly flights. Navoi airport will serve as a transfer point for technical landing, refueling, and crew changes.
1.4 Strategic Liberalization and Future Prospects
Uzbekistan plans to liberalize air connectivity with China significantly. Agreements have been reached to increase the number of flights between the two countries to 100 per week, with each country operating 50 flights. The restrictions on the number of destination points and designated carriers will be lifted, allowing unlimited flights to various cities. Additionally, a new air corridor should reduce flight time between Uzbekistan and China.
1.5 Air Silk Road Initiative
Uzbekistan and China have also agreed on the joint development of an "Air Silk Road" for cargo air services. This initiative is part of broader efforts to enhance Uzbekistan's role in global air cargo logistics and strengthen economic ties with China.
By investing in infrastructure, expanding its fleet, and forging international partnerships, Uzbekistan is well-positioned to become a significant player in the global air cargo industry. These developments are expected to drive economic growth, create jobs, and enhance the country's logistical capabilities.
Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan is undergoing a transformative journey in developing its cargo aviation sector, driven by strategic initiatives, infrastructure improvements, international collaborations, and regulatory reforms aimed at enhancing the country's position as a pivotal hub for air cargo in Central Asia.
Growth and Expansion
Cargo Volume and Fleet Expansion
In December 2023, Marat Karabayev, Kazakhstan's Minister of Transport, outlined ambitious plans for the country's cargo aviation sector. He projected that the volume of processed cargo would increase eightfold by 2030. This growth is supported by the expansion of the air fleet, which will add 25 more aircraft by the end of 2025, bringing the total to 124 and increasing capacity by 32%.
During the first quarter of 2024, aircraft delivered 5,800 tons of cargo and baggage, reflecting a slight decrease year-on-year. However, revenue ton-kilometers (RTK) grew by 5.7% to 13.3 million. March 2024 saw a positive trend with 2,200 tons of cargo transported, an increase of 4.1% year-on-year, and RTK increasing by 11.2% to 4.9 million. From January to April 2024, the National Bureau of Statistics reported a 1.2% increase in cargo volume to 7,900 tons and an 8.5% rise in cargo turnover to 18.3 million ton-kilometers.
Changes in Transit Routes Over Kazakhstan
The structure of Kazakh airspace utilization has changed dramatically due to the geopolitical situation and alterations in global flight paths.
Before April 2022, transit routes over Kazakhstan were heavily utilized by flights between Europe, Asia, and North America. The routes included:
- Cross-polar routes to the USA and Canada.
- Direct routes between Europe and China.
- Connections from Southeast Asia to Europe.
- Extensive use of Russian airspace for flights to and from Europe.
After April 2022, the transit routes shifted significantly:
- The usage of Russian airspace decreased due to geopolitical tensions and airspace restrictions.
- Increased utilization of Kazakh airspace by flights avoiding Russian territory.
- Enhanced connections between China, Southeast Asia, and Europe over Kazakhstan.
- New routes from the Middle East and Central Asia avoiding the previously dominant paths through Russia.
These shifts underscore Kazakhstan's growing importance as a transit hub in the region, highlighting its strategic advantage and the necessity for continued infrastructure and regulatory enhancements to accommodate the evolving air traffic patterns.
Liberalization and International Agreements
Open Skies and Fifth Freedom Rights
In June 2023, Kazakhstan signed a significant memorandum with Luxembourg, allowing Cargolux to increase its flights via Astana from 7 to 21 times per week. Cargolux Airlines International S.A., founded in 1970 in Luxembourg, operates 30 Boeing 747 airplanes and flies to more than 50 destinations globally. This agreement positions Kazakhstan as a key transit hub between Europe and Southeast Asia. Furthermore, in December 2023, Kazakhstan's Ministry of Transport lifted restrictions for foreign airlines, granting unlimited flights to major cities under the Open Skies regime, including fifth freedom traffic rights aimed at boosting competition and reducing airfares.
Partnerships with China and South Korea
The introduction of a visa-free regime with China in November 2023 led to increased flight frequencies and new routes. Kazakh airlines obtained rights for unlimited flights to Hainan Island, leveraging fifth freedom rights for the first time. An agreement was reached to expand the number of flights between the two countries to 124 per week, with cargo flights operated without restrictions on destinations and frequencies. These agreements were made during the China-Central Asia (C5+1) Civil Aviation Cooperation Working Group Conference in Xi'an. Agreements with South Korea in February and March 2024 are set to quadruple flight frequencies between the two countries to 42 per week, including 40 cargo flights weekly with fifth freedom rights. This collaboration also introduced new routes and enhanced bilateral air services.
French and Chinese Carrier Collaborations
In April 2024, Shymkent airport handled a technical stop for a French cargo carrier, FTL Airlines, en route from Paris to Haikou on Hainan Island. Sichuan Airlines launched scheduled cargo flights between China and Europe via Kazakhstan, with the Chengdu-Almaty-Budapest route operated five times a week. These flights are expected to boost Kazakhstan's transit potential and further develop its air cargo infrastructure.
Expansion of Alpha Sky's Fleet and Operations, collaboration with QazPost and New Routes
Kazakhstan's cargo airline Alpha Sky is set to significantly expand its fleet and operations in 2024. The carrier plans to add two Boeing 757-200F aircraft to its existing fleet, with the first aircraft expected to arrive in April. This development was announced at the IATA World Cargo Symposium 2024 in Singapore, highlighting Alpha Sky's strategic growth plans. The addition of the Boeing 757-200F aircraft, which is already being promoted on the airline's social media platforms, marks a significant enhancement in their cargo capacity .
In addition to expanding its fleet, Alpha Sky has entered into a collaboration with Avsoft International, a provider of online training solutions for the aviation industry. This partnership includes specialized training courses for Alpha Sky pilots, focusing on the B737-400 and B757-200 aircraft models. This initiative ensures that Alpha Sky's pilots are well-prepared to operate the new additions to their fleet, maintaining high standards of safety and efficiency.
Alpha Sky, based at Turkestan Airport (HSA) with an office in Shymkent, currently operates a single Boeing 737-400F, which it acquired in the summer of 2023. This aircraft, registered as P4-JAG, primarily flies routes between the UAE and destinations in East Africa. Despite an incident in January 2024 where Somali aviation authorities temporarily restricted its entry due to undisclosed cargo information, the aircraft has continued its operations successfully.
Alpha Sky's strategic initiatives extend beyond fleet expansion. In May 2024, the airline signed a memorandum of cooperation with Kazakhstan's national postal operator, QazPost. This partnership aims to enhance Alpha Sky's cargo capabilities by launching regular flights from Turkestan to Hong Kong. To support this new route, a joint distribution center for processing international postal shipments has been established in Turkestan. This center will facilitate the handling of e-commerce goods from Hong Kong, with return flights expected to be loaded with export goods from Kazakhstan.
The collaboration with QazPost is projected to provide additional transit shipments of up to 60 tons per week. Specifically for this project, Alpha Sky will receive its first Boeing 757 freighter aircraft by the end of May. Currently, Alpha Sky's fleet includes two Boeing 737-400Fs, which primarily operate outside of Kazakhstan. The addition of the new aircraft and the strategic partnership with QazPost underscores Alpha Sky's commitment to expanding its operational footprint and enhancing its service offerings .
These developments highlight Alpha Sky's strategic growth in the cargo aviation sector, focusing on fleet expansion, pilot training, and strategic partnerships to enhance its operational capabilities and service reach.
Infrastructure Developments
New Terminals and Hubs
Kazakhstan's 2030 development strategy includes transforming four airports—Astana, Almaty, Aktobe, and Shymkent—into regional hubs. These hubs will feature advanced infrastructure for passenger and cargo services, along with special customs zones. In June 2024, a Turkish logistics company announced the construction of a multimodal cargo terminal at Aktobe Airport, set for completion by 2025. This terminal will bolster the airport's strategic role in connecting Russia with other Central Asian countries.
Astana Airport Modernization
Astana International Airport (NQZ) continues to demonstrate significant operational growth, serving 1.84 million passengers in the first quarter of 2024, a 25% increase year-on-year. The airport is set for a runway overhaul from May to December 2024, led by UAE-based Terminals Holding.
Karaganda Airport Transformation
Karaganda’s Sary-Arka Airport is being transformed into a multimodal hub with significant private investment. This project aims to increase cargo traffic from 15,000 tons to 200,000 tons by 2030, creating 2,000 jobs and establishing a free economic zone on the airport's territory. Currently, the airport serves cargo flights from Belgium, Hong Kong, the Netherlands, and Ecuador. The development includes new infrastructure and the attraction of third-party carriers. Private investors plan to inject about $270 million into the renovation of the runway and terminal, and the expansion of the cargo hub. Additionally, Karaganda airport will have its own cargo airline, Altair Airlines, with China designated as a first potential destination.
German and Turkish Investments in Aktobe
The Hansa Consortia, a German company, expressed interest in participating in two new airport projects in Kazakhstan. They plan to invest $500 million in the construction and management of a new airport in Aktobe, which will include a regional multimodal hub and an aircraft technical center. In a separate development, a Turkish logistics company, SSistem, announced plans to build a multimodal cargo terminal at Aktobe Airport. The terminal will have an effective area of 30,000 square meters and will include sections for hazardous, radioactive, and temperature-dependent cargo.
Safety and Compliance
ISAGO Certification
In March 2024, Astana International Airport (NQZ) became Kazakhstan’s only airport to achieve IATA Safety Audit for Ground Operations (ISAGO) certification. This certification confirms the airport's compliance with international safety standards and best practices in ground handling.
Dangerous Goods Transport
In April 2024, Kazakhstan addressed the safe transport of dangerous goods by air during the first meeting of a newly-formed working group. This group includes representatives from airports, airlines, cargo warehouses, aviation training centers, and shippers. The goal is to develop regulations and create a safety culture embedded in every aspect of transportation activities.
International Collaboration and Agreements
Memorandums of Understanding with TIACA
In June 2024, Almaty, Astana, and Karaganda airports signed Memorandums of Understanding with the International Air Cargo Association (TIACA). These agreements aim to enhance cooperation and support Kazakhstan's airports in becoming significant players in the global air cargo network.
Kazakhstan-Qatar Agreement
In July 2023, Kazakhstan and Qatar signed a memorandum of understanding to increase the number of flights between the two countries, doubling passenger flights and expanding cargo flights from 7 to 10 weekly, with Qatar Airways increasing its Almaty-Doha route frequency.
National Welfare Fund Initiative
In June 2024, it was announced that Freedom Holding’s Timur Turlov had acquired a 60% stake in Karaganda’s Sary-Arka Airport, with plans to transform it into a multimodal hub, increasing cargo traffic significantly and creating numerous jobs. The national welfare fund, Samruk Kazyna, seeks an international airline partner to develop a transit cargo air service in Kazakhstan and create a local feeder air carrier.
Future Prospects and Strategic Goals
Long-Term Vision
Kazakhstan's vision for its cargo aviation sector includes developing multimodal hubs, expanding flight routes, and establishing strategic international partnerships. These efforts are designed to transform Kazakhstan into a leading transit hub for air cargo between Europe and Asia.
Economic Impact
The development of cargo aviation in Kazakhstan is expected to create thousands of jobs, attract significant foreign investment, and enhance the country's logistical capabilities. This growth supports broader economic development goals, positioning Kazakhstan as a crucial player in global air cargo networks.
By leveraging its strategic location and investing in infrastructure, technology, and international partnerships, Kazakhstan is well on its way to becoming a major hub for cargo aviation in Central Asia and beyond.
Turkmenistan 
Fleet Expansion and Modernization
Turkmenistan Airlines has made significant strides in modernizing and expanding its cargo fleet. In March 2023, the airline took delivery of its first Airbus A330-200P2F cargo aircraft, marking Central Asia's first Passenger-to-Freighter (P2F) converted widebody. This aircraft, registered as EZ-F429, arrived in Ashgabat in May 2023. This acquisition is part of Turkmenistan's 2030 national civil aviation roadmap, aiming to boost the country's air cargo capabilities significantly.
In April 2023, Turkmenistan Airlines received its second Airbus A330-200P2F, registered as EZ-F430. These aircraft, powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 772B-60 engines, are expected to become the main links between Asia and Europe, facilitating transit via the large logistics center at Ashgabat Airport. The introduction of these widebody freighters marks a significant enhancement in the airline's operational capacity, allowing it to serve new routes to South Korea and various European destinations, including the Czech Republic and Germany.
Route Network Expansion
Turkmenistan Airlines has been actively expanding its cargo route network. Since July 2023, the airline has been operating weekly cargo flights to Milan (Italy) and Shenzhen (China), leveraging its newly acquired Airbus A330-200P2F aircraft. This expansion is part of the airline's strategy to position Ashgabat as a central hub for international cargo transportation. Additionally, the airline has started collaborating with Challenge Airlines, a Belgian cargo carrier, to operate flights from Liege (Belgium) to Ningbo (China) with a stop in Ashgabat. This collaboration underscores Ashgabat Airport's growing role as a key transit and logistics hub in Central Asia.
Infrastructure Enhancements
Ashgabat Airport is being positioned as a major cargo and logistics hub in the region. The airport boasts modern equipment and highly qualified staff capable of ensuring safe and efficient cargo operations. These capabilities have attracted other international cargo carriers, such as Cargolux, MNG Airlines, Moalem Aviation, and Mongolian Airlines, further enhancing Turkmenistan's connectivity and logistical infrastructure.
Kyrgyzstan 
Fleet Expansion
Kyrgyzstan's AeroStan has significantly expanded its fleet, adding another Boeing 747-200F freighter in March 2023. This addition brought the carrier's total fleet to five widebody cargo aircraft, which includes three Boeing 747-200Fs and two Airbus A300B4-200Fs. AeroStan, based at Bishkek Manas Airport, operates flights to destinations across Asia, China, Africa, Central America, and South America. The expansion of its fleet underscores AeroStan's strategic growth and its role as a key player in the regional air cargo market.
Operational Focus
AeroStan, established in 2008, is an air cargo charter operator that leverages Kyrgyzstan's strategic location to connect various global markets. The airline's diverse fleet and extensive route network allow it to cater to a wide range of cargo types and industries, positioning Kyrgyzstan as a vital link in the global air cargo supply chain.
Azerbaijan 
Silk Way West Airlines
Fleet Expansion and Modernization
Silk Way West Airlines, based in Baku, is the leading cargo airline in the Caspian and Central Asian regions, with an annual cargo turnover exceeding 500,000 tons. Based at Heydar Aliyev International Airport in Baku, the airline operates approximately 350 monthly scheduled flights to 40 destinations around the world. The airline has been expanding its fleet and capabilities significantly. In October 2023, Silk Way West took delivery of its first Boeing 777 Freighter, followed by a second 777 Freighter in December 2023. These aircraft, part of a larger order that includes five 777Fs and two 777-8Fs, enhance the airline's capacity and operational efficiency. The Boeing 777 Freighters, known for their large payload capacity and extended range, will allow Silk Way West to expand its long-haul operations and reduce transit times.
Route Network Expansion
Silk Way West Airlines has been actively expanding its route network. In 2023, the airline launched new cargo routes to Houston, Los Angeles, and other major destinations in the Americas. The airline's network also includes regular flights to Chicago and Dallas, making it a significant player in the transcontinental cargo market. In addition, Silk Way West operates routes to key locations in the Middle East and Central Asia, including Dammam and Tashkent, enhancing its strategic presence in these regions.
Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations
Silk Way West has forged several strategic partnerships to enhance its operational capabilities. In November 2023, the airline joined the cargo.one online booking platform, providing a user-friendly interface that simplifies booking processes and optimizes capacity utilization. This move is expected to reduce costs and improve efficiency. Additionally, the airline has signed a component pool agreement with Turkish Technic, ensuring access to spare parts and maintenance services for its Boeing 777 fleet. These partnerships are crucial for maintaining high operational standards and meeting the growing demand for air cargo services.
In July 2024, Silk Way West Airlines signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with China Henan Aviation Group to enhance air cargo connectivity and efficiency between Zhengzhou, China, and Baku, Azerbaijan. This partnership aims to build a robust dual-hub cooperation model that spans the Asia-Pacific region and connects Europe, America, and Africa. The initiative will significantly increase the frequency of all-cargo routes between Zhengzhou and Baku, positioning Zhengzhou as a key hub for the Asia-Pacific region and Baku as a central hub for Europe and beyond.
Future Plans
Currently, Silk Way West operates an all-Boeing fleet comprising two Boeing 777Fs, seven Boeing 747-400Fs, and five Boeing 747-8Fs. The airline has ordered two next-generation 777-8 Freighters and two Airbus A350 Freighters, which will further enhance its fleet's efficiency and reduce its environmental footprint. These new aircraft will support Silk Way West's strategic goals of expanding its global network and providing reliable and efficient air cargo services.
Georgia 
Geo Sky
Fleet Expansion and New Routes
In December 2023, Georgian Wings added a Boeing 737-300 to its fleet, enabling the launch of new international routes. The airline currently operates flights from Tbilisi to Batumi, Baku, Tashkent, Aktau, and Chisinau. Geo Sky's expansion into passenger services is part of a broader strategy to diversify its business and transform Tbilisi International Airport into a hub for air travel between Europe and Asia.
Diversification into Passenger Services
Geo Sky, a Georgian cargo airline, has diversified its operations by launching a passenger division under the brand Georgian Wings. In July 2023, Georgian Wings began operating scheduled passenger flights between Tbilisi and Batumi using a 70-seat ATR 72-500 turboprop. This move aims to enhance domestic connectivity and leverage Georgia's strategic location for international expansion. The airline plans to add new routes to cities in Turkey, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Moldova, further strengthening its regional presence.
Camex Airlines
Fleet Expansion and International Expansion
Georgia-based Camex Airlines has been growing its all-cargo fleet, adding a Boeing 737-800SF (MSN 33800) in March 2023. The aircraft, converted by Aeronautical Engineers Inc. and leased from World Star Aviation, joins the carrier's existing Boeing-converted 737-800BCF. Camex Airlines plans to set up a subsidiary in Slovenia, named CAMEX Adria Airlines, further extending its reach and capabilities in the European market.
Kutaisi International Airport Development
Kutaisi International Airport is set to become Georgia’s only airport without restrictions on the type of operated aircraft. This development includes the design of a new 3500-meter-long runway and additional airport infrastructure. Once completed, the new runway will pave the way for launching true long-haul operations, both passenger and cargo, creating a new air cargo center in Kutaisi. This project is included in Georgia's "Vision 2030" development strategy, aiming to improve the country's air cargo transportation potential.
Armenia 
Lufthansa Cargo Operations
In July 2023, Lufthansa Cargo launched its first scheduled air cargo services from Frankfurt to Yerevan, Armenia. These flights, operated once a week using Boeing 777F freighters, integrate Armenia into the global air cargo network. The introduction of these services is expected to enhance Armenia's connectivity and logistical infrastructure, facilitating efficient cargo transport between Europe and the Caucasus region.
Conclusion
The air cargo sectors in Central Asia, the Caspian region, and the Caucasus are experiencing significant growth and development. Strategic investments in fleet expansion, infrastructure improvements, and international partnerships are driving these countries toward becoming pivotal hubs in the global air cargo network. This transformation is expected to enhance their logistical capabilities, foster economic growth, and improve connectivity across the greater region.
Several questions remain open, such as which airports will assume the role of key cargo hubs, how major transit cargo flows between Europe and Asia will be established, and how competition among cargo airlines within the region will evolve. One thing is clear: the air cargo sector is poised for significant and exciting development.