Azerbaijan Joins Egypt, Israel, Slovakia, Uzbekistan, Iran, and More: New Flight Routes Set to Transform Global Travel in 2026!

In 2026, Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) will be offering new routes and expanded services, connecting Baku to even more destinations around the world. From seasonal charters to increased frequencies on popular routes, AZAL is strengthening its position as a global airline, providing travelers with more travel options to and from Azerbaijan. These expansions are expected to boost tourism, business travel, and regional cooperation, particularly between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

1. Baku ↔ Cairo (Egypt) — New Seasonal Charter Service

One of the most anticipated launches of 2026 is the introduction of a seasonal charter service between Baku and Cairo. Starting in January 2026, Azerbaijan Airlines will operate weekly nonstop flights between Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD) and Cairo International Airport (CAI). These flights will run until February 2026 and will offer a direct connection between Azerbaijan and Egypt. This seasonal service will not only cater to leisure travelers looking to explore Egypt’s historical treasures but will also support business connections between the two regions. This new route underscores Azerbaijan’s growing importance as a hub connecting the Middle East and North Africa.

2. Baku ↔ Tel Aviv (Israel) — Increased Frequency & Expanded Service

Azerbaijan Airlines is also set to expand its services to Tel Aviv, Israel. Starting in May 2026, AZAL will increase its weekly flights on the Baku to Tel Aviv route, offering up to 21 weekly flights. This marks a major boost in connectivity between Azerbaijan and Israel, enhancing accessibility for both business and tourism sectors. The increased frequency reflects growing demand for travel between the two countries, with Israel being a key destination for both Azerbaijani tourists and Israeli travelers exploring Azerbaijan’s rich history and culture. These new frequencies will provide more flexibility for travelers, making it easier than ever to fly between Baku and Tel Aviv.

3. Baku ↔ Bratislava (Slovakia) — New Direct Route

In 2026, Azerbaijan Airlines is also introducing a new direct flight route between Baku and Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. This new route, operated by Wizz Air, a low-cost partner of Azerbaijan Airlines, will enhance Azerbaijan’s connectivity with Central Europe. This new route will make it easier for travelers to explore the historic city of Bratislava and connect with other parts of Central Europe. The introduction of this service will also help to promote tourism and business relationships between Slovakia and Azerbaijan, providing greater access to the Slovakian market for Azerbaijani businesses and vice versa.

4. Tashkent ↔ Baku — Expanded Codeshare with Uzbekistan Airways

While not a completely new route, Azerbaijan Airlines’ codeshare partnership with Uzbekistan Airways will be further expanded in 2026, especially on the Tashkent to Baku route. The partnership will increase passenger options, allowing travelers to book through services and travel seamlessly between Baku and Tashkent. The codeshare agreement facilitates better connections between Azerbaijan and Central Asia, boosting travel and trade between the two regions. This expanded cooperation is expected to increase the flow of tourists and businesspeople to both countries, offering easy connections from Tashkent to Baku and vice versa.

5. Seasonal & Frequency Adjustments on Existing Popular Routes

In addition to the new routes, Azerbaijan Airlines is also increasing flight frequencies on several of its popular routes as part of its 2026 schedule. This includes multiple weekly services to cities such as London, Milan, Barcelona, Mumbai, Delhi, Jeddah, Astana, Bishkek, Dushanbe, Male, Beijing, and more. These expansions will provide more flexibility for travelers looking to visit Azerbaijan and other regions of the world, especially for those traveling for business or leisure. The increase in frequencies demonstrates Azerbaijan Airlines’ commitment to enhancing its international reach and serving a growing number of passengers.

6. Notes on Routes Previously Launched Into 2025 But Relevant for 2026

Some routes launched in 2025 will continue into 2026, further strengthening Azerbaijan’s connectivity. These include:

• Baku ↔ Tabriz (Iran) — These direct flights were reinstated in 2025 and will remain part of the ongoing schedule, providing a key link between Azerbaijan and Iran.
• Baku ↔ Tehran (Iran) — Regular flights were restarted in 2025 and will continue into 2026, reinforcing Azerbaijan’s access to the Iranian market.

Summary of New and Expanded Azerbaijan Flights in 2026

Where to Fly from Azerbaijan in 2026

Travelers departing from Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD) can expect the following new and expanded flight opportunities in 2026:

• Seasonal flights to Cairo will offer direct access to Egypt for travelers seeking a cultural and historical getaway.
• Expanded service to Tel Aviv will make it easier than ever to visit Israel, with increased options for flights.
• New connections to Bratislava will enhance access to Central Europe.
• Expanded codeshare services with Uzbekistan Airways will create more travel flexibility to Central Asia.

Outlook for Azerbaijan’s Aviation in 2026

Azerbaijan Airlines is committed to growing its international network in 2026. With new routes, expanded services, and increased frequencies, AZAL is well-positioned to meet rising demand for travel between Azerbaijan, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The airline’s efforts will strengthen Azerbaijan’s global connectivity, support regional tourism, and provide more travel options for passengers worldwide.