First direct scheduled flight on the Baku-Kars route completed

The first direct scheduled flight launched between Azerbaijan's capital, Baku, and Kars was carried out from Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport. The new route aims to strengthen transportation links between Turkey and Azerbaijan.

Kars Mayor Ötüken Sergen and Kars Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KATSO) Chairman Kadir Bozan also participated in the inaugural flight. Officials stated that the route would contribute to Kars's tourism and trade potential.

Kars Mayor Sergen noted that the distance between Baku and Kars would be reduced to approximately one hour by flight, stating that the historical and cultural ties between the two cities would become more visible. Sergen expressed that Kars's goal of becoming a trade hub would be strengthened alongside transportation projects such as the Zangezur Corridor, the Baku-Tbilisi-Kars Railway line, and the Eastern Gate.

Emphasizing that the Eastern Express has transformed Kars into an important culture and tourism route in recent years, Sergen stated that this route could also be integrated with Azerbaijan through the Baku-Kars flights. Highlighting Kars's tourism assets such as the Sarıkamış Ski Center, Lake Çıldır, and the Ani Archaeological Site, Sergen said that the city, which hosted approximately 650 thousand tourists last year, has a target of 1.5 million visitors this year.

TWO FLIGHTS PER WEEK PLANNED

KATSO Chairman Kadir Bozan stated that the Baku-Kars flights were launched by Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) following a preparation process of approximately 1.5 years. Bozan noted that the route could create economic and touristic activity not only for Kars but also for the wider region extending to Ardahan, Iğdır, Ağrı, Erzurum, Van, and Artvin.

Stating that transportation is critically important for regional development, Bozan reported that the route will operate two days a week, on Thursdays and Sundays, according to current planning. Bozan expressed that they expect the number of flights to increase in the future, noting that the route will provide convenience for travel for trade, tourism, and educational purposes.

News Source: 12punto