Samarkand International Airport (SKD)

Samarkand International Airport is the second busiest airport in Uzbekistan and the main international gateway to Samarkand and the historic Silk Road region. Its new terminal opened in 2022 and serves both domestic and international flights operated by local and foreign airlines. The airport was developed as the first public-private partnership project in Uzbekistan's aviation industry. The new terminal, managed by Air Marakanda, was built to international standards and features a distinctive open-book design inspired by the astronomical work of Mirzo Ulugh Beg. Located about 6–8 km north of the city centre, the airport is connected to Samarkand by road, taxis, private transfers and bus services, making the journey to the Registan, hotels and surrounding areas relatively straightforward. With a terminal area of 40,700 square metres, 29 check-in counters, duty-free shopping, passenger lounges and parking, the airport provides a modern travel experience. It has been recognised among the top regional airports in Central Asia by the World Airport Awards (Skytrax) for three consecutive years.