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AZAL increases passenger traffic by 5%

09 July 2026 15:35 (UTC +04:00)

Azerbaijan Airlines continued to expand its route network, strengthen its fleet with new-generation aircraft, enhance its digital services, and develop international partnerships during the first six months of 2026, AZAL told APA-Economics.

Throughout the reporting period, the airline improved its operational performance while introducing a number of new services and solutions for passengers.

During this period, Azerbaijan Airlines served a total of 1.9 million passengers, including 1.6 million travelling on international routes. In addition, the airline operated 8,462 flights, of which 6,566 were international services. The average load factor reached 79%, while the on-time performance rate stood at 81%.

In the first half of 2026, Azerbaijan's national carrier made significant progress in expanding its route network. The airline launched direct flights to Shymkent and opened ticket sales for scheduled services to Aktobe, Atyrau, and Brussels, creating new travel opportunities for passengers. By the end of the reporting period, Azerbaijan Airlines' scheduled route network comprised 52 destinations. The most popular destinations among passengers were Moscow, Istanbul, Tbilisi, Tel Aviv, and Ankara.

During the reporting period, the fleet was expanded with three new-generation Airbus aircraft—two Airbus A320neo aircraft and AZAL's first-ever Airbus A321neo—bringing the total number of aircraft in operation to 29.

In addition, 1,868 flights were operated on the Baku–Nakhchivan–Baku route, one of the country's busiest domestic services, carrying 367,651 passengers. On the busiest operational day, 25 flights were performed on this route.

During the first six months of the year, Azerbaijan Airlines also introduced a number of new initiatives aimed at enhancing the passenger experience and expanding its digital services. The airline increased the online additional baggage allowance to 32 kg, introduced the option to add the Stopover service during online ticket purchases, and launched a Rental Car service. At the same time, integrations with Alipay and WeChat Pay were introduced for passengers from China, while HUMO and UZCARD payment systems became available for citizens of Uzbekistan. In addition, in partnership with Bakcell, the airline introduced exclusive roaming packages for its passengers.

During the reporting period, the airline ensured the continuity of its operations while maintaining flight safety as its top priority.

Emil Ismayilov

Azerbaijan Airlines AZAL Azerbaijan aviation Airbus A320neo Airbus A321neo fleet expansion route network passenger traffic international flights Shymkent Aktobe Atyrau Brussels Nakhchivan Baku digital services Alipay WeChat Pay HUMO UZCARD Bakcell Stopover service Rental Car air travel