In a significant development for air travel connectivity, UAE-based low-cost carrier Air Arabia has announced the resumption of daily flights from its hub at Sharjah International Airport (SHJ) to Kabul International Airport (KBL) starting January 10, 2024. This move comes after a hiatus of two years when services from non-Afghan airlines were suspended following a regime change in Afghanistan.
Adel Al Ali, Group Chief Executive Officer of Air Arabia, expressed enthusiasm about the latest addition to their expanding network, emphasizing the opportunity for customers in the UAE and beyond to experience the airline’s renowned products.
The daily flights to Kabul will be operated using Air Arabia’s Airbus A320 and A321 neo-LR aircraft fleet, with departure scheduled from Sharjah at 4.25 am. Ali underscored that the introduction of these direct flights to Kabul reflects the airline’s dedication to providing passengers with value-driven and affordable air travel, as well as opening up new destinations for exploration.
Air Arabia’s announcement aligns with a broader trend of international airlines gradually resuming operations in Afghanistan. Jazeera Airways, a Kuwaiti low-cost carrier, is also gearing up to launch international flights to Kabul, while Dubai’s flydubai recently became the first international airline to resume flights to the country after the 2021 suspension.
Currently, Ariana Afghan Airlines and Kam Air serve various global destinations from Kabul Airport. With the addition of Jazeera Airways and Air Arabia, the total number of international carriers operating at Kabul Airport will reach three, marking a positive step towards rebuilding air travel connectivity for the region.
As Air Arabia and other carriers reintroduce services to Kabul, this development not only signifies a revival of air travel but also reflects a growing confidence in the region’s stability. The resumption of flights contributes to the reestablishment of vital connections, promoting tourism, trade, and people-to-people exchanges. As the aviation industry takes these strides towards normalization, passengers can look forward to more options and convenience in their travel plans to and from Afghanistan.
