Tajikistan and the United States are exploring the launch of direct passenger flights between the two countries. The routes are expected to be operated by Tajikistan’s Somon Air and American carrier United Airlines. A draft bilateral air transport agreement is already finalized, Avesta reports, citing the Civil Aviation Agency of Tajikistan.
The issue was discussed in Dushanbe during a meeting between Civil Aviation Agency Director Khabibullo Nazarzoda and US Embassy officials led by Chargé d’Affaires Carson Relitz Rocker. The parties explored prospects for establishing air routes and expanding civil aviation cooperation.
According to the Tajik agency, the draft intergovernmental air transport agreement is currently under review by the republic's relevant ministries and agencies. Once cleared, both nations can proceed with launching direct air services.
A specific timeline for the launch of flights has not yet been announced. Details regarding US destination cities and flight frequencies also remain undisclosed.
The push for direct air connectivity comes amid tighter US visa rules. Starting January 21, 2026, Tajik citizens face a mandatory visa bond requirement when applying for B-1/B-2 tourist and business visas.
According to the US Department of State, the bond amounts to $10,000, $15,000, or $20,000, with the exact figure determined by a consular officer during the visa interview. The requirement applies to applicants who otherwise qualify for a visa. The funds are refunded upon compliance with US immigration regulations, specifically timely departure from the country. However, posting a bond does not guarantee visa approval.
Talks on establishing direct flights have been underway for several years. In April 2024, Somon Air announced plans to launch a Dushanbe–New York–Dushanbe route in 2025, though the plan never materialized. In November 2025, civil aviation officials from both nations revisited the prospect of direct flights during talks in Washington.
That same month, on the sidelines of the C5+1 Central Asia–US summit, Somon Air and Boeing unveiled an agreement to acquire up to 14 aircraft, including four long-haul Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners and ten Boeing 737-8 MAX jets.
This purchase marks the first wide-body order for the Tajik carrier, designed for long-haul intercontinental routes. Somon Air stated that the new aircraft would allow Dushanbe to expand flight services beyond its current network across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
