Airlines cannot set ticket prices independently – Shukhrat Khudoykulov

A press conference was held to mark the 34th anniversary of the establishment of Uzbekistan Airways. Issues related to air ticket prices, discounts, and market mechanisms were discussed at the event, QALAMPIR.UZ correspondent reports.

Speaking at the press conference, Shukhrat Khudoykulov, Chairman of the Management Board of Uzbekistan Airways JSC, shared his views on air ticket pricing. According to him, the airline’s average seat occupancy rate reached 80 percent by the end of 2025.

“In my personal opinion, air ticket prices on both domestic and international routes are within a reasonable range. This indicates that they are competitive compared to other airlines. If prices were not competitive, the market would not have developed the way it has today,” Khudoykulov said.

He noted that today not only Uzbekistan Airways and its subsidiary Silk Avia operate domestic and international flights, but other airlines are also active in the market. Therefore, airlines cannot set ticket prices independently without taking market demand into account.

“If the market cannot absorb it, an airline cannot set prices as it pleases. I cannot say that both the number of flights and ticket prices are absolutely convenient for everyone,” he added.

Khudoykulov also provided information on Uzbekistan Airways’ brands. According to him, Uzbekistan Airways and Uzbekistan Airways Express brands are currently in operation. Ticket prices on Express flights are on average 20 percent lower, although certain restrictions apply.

“We introduced this product to the market as a low-cost option. At present, the possibility of offering Silk Avia and Uzbekistan Airways Express as a single product is under discussion. We are consulting with the team, and decisions will be announced to the public in the near future,” the airline’s head said.

As part of the press conference marking the airline’s 34th anniversary, newly designed uniforms developed for service staff were also presented. For the first time, the ceremonial uniform set includes a cardigan made of knitted fabric. In addition, coats and insulated raincoats were introduced as outerwear. These innovations are expected to improve comfort and functionality during flight duties in the autumn and winter seasons.

The color palette of the uniforms is based on sky blue, dark blue, and deep red tones. The design incorporates traditional atlas and adras fabrics, as well as delicate national patterns. These decorative elements were interpreted as symbols of progress, harmony, and commitment to national values.