From ATR's point of view, Uzbekistan is a "blank spot" on the map with regard to the ATR72-600. That will change, because with the new company Silk Avia an agreement has been signed for a total of five turboprop aircraft of this type.

According to the aircraft manufacturer, the startup will buy three directly from ATR and obtain two more through a leasing company. In addition to this agreement, the airline will soon begin operations with three used ATR 72-600s.

The airport operator Uzbekistan Airports is behind Silk Avia. He wants to build up a regional network with the start-up. The initial focus is on point-to-point connections to the capital, Tashkent. At a later date, decentralized domestic routes will also be included. Those responsible currently have the idea that around 40 domestic routes should be served with ATR72-600. They will initially connect 11 national airports and in the future 7 more airports, supporting the growth of the country and its booming tourism industry.

Rano Dzhuraeva, President of Uzbekistan Airports, said: “We look forward to starting operations soon with a fleet composed entirely of ATR aircraft. As a new low-cost airline, we have thoroughly analyzed the market in search of the most suitable aircraft. The ATR 72-600 is the ideal choice for us as it allows us to offer our passengers an experience that combines comfort, modernity and reliability while meeting our demanding cost and sustainability criteria.”