Ambitious plans: Uzbek carrier plans to launch a Hungarian airline
Uzbekistan-based cargo airline My Freighter is charting ambitious plans to expand its operations internationally, including establishing a new airline in Hungary. This move, alongside securing another air operator’s certificate (AOC) in Saudi Arabia, was announced by Abdulaziz Abdurakhmanov, the founder and CEO of Centrum Holding, the airline’s parent company, during the Central Asia Air Cargo Summit 2024.
Hungary as a strategic hub for the Uzbek airline
The Hungarian AOC is a cornerstone of My Freighter’s strategy to strengthen its presence in Europe while reaching markets in South and North America, the Middle East, and the Far East, AIRportal.hu wrote based on Ch-aviation’s report. “These new cargo airlines will allow us to expand our network globally,” Abdurakhmanov stated. The company also plans to establish a new base in Navoi, Uzbekistan, with regular cargo routes to Liège (Belgium) and Ostrava (Czechia).
The airline’s plans extend beyond Europe. My Freighter is targeting entry into Singapore, Malaysia, and Pacific markets, and launching regular flights to Pakistan and India.
Currently, My Freighter operates a fleet of five Boeing 767-300ER freighters, which includes one BDSF and four BCF models. The fleet is set to grow significantly, with five more aircraft expected in 2025 and a target of 20 freighters by 2026.
Uzbek My Freighter building on existing connections
My Freighter already has a presence in Hungary, operating charter cargo flights from Hong Kong to Budapest with a stopover in Uzbekistan. The addition of a dedicated Hungarian AOC would deepen these ties and enhance the airline’s ability to serve European markets more effectively.
In addition to cargo operations, Centrum Holding oversees Centrum Air, a passenger airline that currently operates four planes, including Airbus A320-200s and A321neos. While it does not yet have a separate AOC, Centrum Air could see further development alongside My Freighter’s growth.
Emerging competition: Hungary Airlines
While My Freighter focuses on cargo, another player is entering the Hungarian aviation market. As we reported earlier, Hungary Airlines, backed by Chinese investment, recently signed a deal with Boeing to acquire 100 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. The airline aims to establish routes between China and Central Eastern Europe, using Budapest as its European hub.
The head of the Relations Department of HEPA (Hungarian Export Promotion Agency) said that Hungary Airlines aims to become a global trademark and provide sustainable and effective air travel services. Moreover, they would like to strengthen the relationship between China and Hungary. Based on the article published by Új Szemle, Hungary Airlines plans to launch its first flight to Hong Kong. However, it is not specified whether that will be a cargo or a passenger flight.
Though distinct in their missions, the simultaneous emergence of My Freighter’s Hungarian venture and Hungary Airlines reflects the country’s growing importance as a hub for aviation in the region. These developments could mark a significant shift in Hungary’s role in international air transport.
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