State-owned Asman Airlines operated its first technical flight on the Bishkek – Khujand – Bishkek route. Starting April 8, these flights will become regular.

In the meantime, "Akchabar" correspondents were lucky to be among the first passengers on the flight. Our plane took off from Manas International Airport in Bishkek and, just over an hour later, landed at Khujand Airport in the city of Buston — a satellite city of Khujand.

In Tajikistan, it is tradition to welcome an aircraft on its inaugural flight with a water salute. The group of air passengers was greeted by musicians and women in national attire, as well as representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Tajikistan and the airport administration.

Director General of Asman Airlines, Joldoshbek Aidaraliev, noted that Khujand, rich in history and culture, is the second-largest city in Tajikistan, with a population of over 1 million people. In the future, this destination could become one of the most popular choices for tourists.

He also mentioned that ticket prices are still being finalized, but they are expected to be around $90 one way.

Guests were given a tour of the city's sights, with the Tajik Sea as the first stop. Located near Khujand, it was known as the Kairakkum Reservoir until 2016. And it remains one of the largest reservoirs in the country. The Kyrgyz delegation also visited the Arbob Cultural Palace and learned about its history.

And, of course, visitors explored the heart of the city — the Khujand Fortress. Within the complex, artisan houses showcase traditional crafts. Our correspondents also had the chance to visit one of the workshops.

The stone workshop is called "Lazurite", and it’s easy to guess that one of the key materials used for creating unique pieces is the mineral of the same name.

A more specialized craft is Florentine mosaic, which has now evolved into Tajik mosaic. As the master explains, this craft was lost and then revived in 1980, gaining a unique Tajik character.

"Tajikistan is currently a leader in this field because this craft is practiced only in four countries: Russia, Ukraine, Italy and Tajikistan. Along with others, we have developed our own technique, which we promote and showcase with our works", — said stone carver Firdavs Toirov.

The work of the masters reflect the labor and time invested in training and craftsmanship. He mentions that the smallest pieces start at $60, while larger works can reach up to $20,000. Interestingly, these pieces are often purchased by private collectors.

Eduard Kubatov, the president of the Mountaineering Federation and one of the first passengers, expressed hope that this new route would be in demand among both Kyrgyz people and our neighbors.

"I believe that the flight between Bishkek and Khujand needs to be developed, and I am confident that Tajik people will be happy to fly to Bishkek, while we will be flying to Khujand. Here in Tajikistan, there are beautiful mountains, and many stunning peaks", — he said.

This year, by the way, mountaineers from Kyrgyzstan plan to climb all the highest peaks of Tajikistan and the Central Pamirs.