Urgench Airport to undergo modernization in partnership with South Korean company

During the project presentation, it was noted that the current airport infrastructure no longer meets the growing demands of local residents and visitors. Its capacity is limited to just 400 passengers per hour, which constrains the development of air connectivity.

The international tender, announced on August 1, 2024, was held in two stages and attracted bids from eight companies from France, South Korea, Turkey, Qatar, and other countries. Following the decision of the interagency tender commission, South Korea’s Incheon International Airport Corporation was declared the winner.

President Mirziyoyev met with the company’s leadership and project team. The corporation’s president highlighted that Incheon Airport ranks third globally in terms of capacity and is among the top in service quality. Urgench will become the second airport under the company’s management. He outlined plans for the airport’s renovation and effective management strategy.

The total project cost stands at $223 million. It includes the construction of a new runway, passenger and cargo terminals, installation of modern lighting and signaling systems in line with ICAO standards, and the purchase of specialized equipment.

Construction and reconstruction work is scheduled for completion between 2025 and 2027. Once modernized, the airport will be capable of accommodating large aircraft such as the Boeing 747 and Airbus A350. The new terminal will cover 39,000 square meters and increase passenger capacity to 1,300 people per hour.

A concept design of the future terminal was also presented. The president recommended incorporating elements of national heritage and cultural identity in both the exterior and interior design of the building.