Shymkent: Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) successfully operated its first flight on the Baku-Shymkent route on June 16, 2026, APA-Economics' correspondent assigned to Shymkent reports. The launch of the new destination is of great importance for further expanding air connectivity between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan, developing tourism and business ties, and strengthening humanitarian cooperation between the two countries.

According to Azeri-Press news agency, AZAL's summer flight schedule includes flights on the Baku-Shymkent-Baku route twice a week, on Tuesdays and Saturdays, from June 16 to June 27, 2026. Starting from June 30, 2026, the number of flights will be increased to three times a week, with flights from Baku to Shymkent operating on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, and return flights available on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays.

A special event was organized in Shymkent to mark the launch of the new route. Representatives of the media, tourism industry, and aviation sector attended the event. Guests had the opportunity to become acquainted with the city's tourism potential, cultural heritage, and modern infrastructure.

The addition of Shymkent to AZAL's route network will further expand travel opportunities for passengers, while also contributing to the strengthening of the national carrier's position in the Central Asian region and fostering closer ties among countries of the region.

It should be noted that airline tickets can be purchased through the official AZAL website, the airline's mobile application, as well as AZAL ticket offices and accredited agencies.