Turkish Airlines plans to resume flights to Afghanistan

KABUL – Turkish Airlines has announced flight resumption to Afghanistan, years after the Trump administration announced the withdrawal of forces from the Asian country torn by violence and chaos.

The carrier is starting flights to Kabul again on May 21st and the resumption of flights marks a distinct achievement for Afghanistan.

Afghanistan’s Kabul airport was destroyed as the war in Afghanistan continued leaving international carriers with no other option than to end the operations.

As per the online commercial by Turkish Airlines, there will be four weekly flights from Kabul to Istanbul operating on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Moreover, the airline from the United Arab Emirates, Fly Dubai was the first international airline to start operations in the country in November 2023.

Besides Flydubai, Kam Air and Ariana Afghan Airlines from Afghanistan also have a few flights from Kabul to Dubai, Moscow, Islamabad, and Istanbul and with the addition of Turkish Airlines, travelers can have more options to fly. The full operation of Kabul’s airport is key to restoring Afghanistan’s shattered economy and Turkish Airlines’ operation would build the confidence of investors and international carriers.

The recent move will help travelers explore the rich cultural heritage, scenic beauty and develop the country’s economy. The decision is expected to enhance the people-to-people contact between Turkey and Afghanistan and increase the options available to Afghans who have been reeling under constant terror for decades.