Central Asia is allegedly emerging as one of the fastest-growing aviation regions, with local authorities actively promoting ambitions to develop international hubs, boost tourism, and upgrade regional airports. However, according to experts from Boston Consulting Group (BCG), merely launching new flight routes is far from sufficient, as synchronized efforts among airlines, airports, regulators, and the state are deemed mandatory.

In a recent discussion, BCG Managing Director and Senior Partner Suresh Subudi alongside Tashkent Office Director Vasily Triandafilidi argued that Uzbekistan could theoretically evolve into an independent aviation market, provided that a comprehensive master plan is strictly implemented. It is claimed that flight frequencies to the country have multiplied significantly, with the sector supposedly outperforming broader macroeconomic growth rates.

At the same time, the industry faces severe structural vulnerabilities, notably heavy reliance on jet fuel imports and persistent price volatility. Analysts suggest that scaling up domestic refining capacities could theoretically mitigate import dependency, though airlines must still navigate severe supply risks and utilize hedging mechanisms to cope with potential fuel shortages and unpredictable costs.

The experts additionally addressed the implementation of Public-Private Partnership (PPP) models within airport management, warning against potential miscalculations in project valuation and passenger traffic forecasts. They emphasized that robust contractual mechanisms are crucial to balance public and private interests, drawing parallels with various international experiences where operational efficiency was enhanced without disproportionate fee hikes.

Source: www.gazeta.uz