Turkish Airlines to Resume Flights to Afghanistan After Nearly 3 Years

Turkish Airlines said that after a suspension of two years and eight months, it will resume its flights to Afghanistan on May 21.

Officials at Turkish Airlines told TOLOnews that there will be four flights a week between Kabul and Istanbul.

Mirshakib Mir, an economist, said: “The resumption of flights by international aviation companies can foster competition in the aviation sector and increase the revenue of the country’s aviation industry.”

Mohammad Nabi Afghan, an economist, said: “The start of international flights benefits several sectors; it facilitates travel for businessmen and reduces travel costs.”

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation welcomed the resumption of Turkish Airlines flights, pledging that they have provided all necessary facilities for aviation companies to restart their flights to Afghanistan.

Imamuddin Ahmadi, spokesman for the Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation, said: “The national and international airports are ready for flights; the country's airports are equipped with the necessary equipment and operate according to international standards.”

The last flight by Turkish Airlines from Kabul Airport was on August 14, 2021, and following political changes in the country, the company also suspended its flights to Afghanistan. 

This follows similar moves by Fly Dubai and Air Arabia, who have already resumed their flights to Afghanistan.