By Fariba Raad | 2025-08-06

A direct air route connecting the Iranian city of Tabriz and Azerbaijan's capital, Baku, has officially reopened after years of suspension, with a July 28 ceremony held July 28 at Tabriz International Airport marking the occasion.

The resumption of twice weekly flights between the two cities is expected to usher in a renewed phase of regional cooperation that will stimulate economic, cultural, and tourism exchanges between the neighboring countries.

In Tabriz, home to the UNESCO World Heritage Grand Bazaar where artisans craft carpets and merchants trade saffron and pistachios, the resumption is seen as a breakthrough for reaching Azerbaijan's markets more efficiently.

The flights reduce travel time, making business trips more feasible and lowering costs, compared to connecting flights or lengthy road journeys.

The renewed connection is expected to further the efforts of a joint economic commission established during Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian's April visit that projected a 20% increase in bilateral trade within the first year.

Cultural connections

Tabriz hosts a significant Azerbaijani-speaking population while Baku shares cultural ties that transcend borders.

The flights will enable family reunifications and student exchanges between cities that share deep historical and linguistic bonds.

For international travelers, the route enhances connectivity across the South Caucasus, creating a new corridor between Europe and the Middle East.

With the resumption of direct flights, tourism is expected to thrive between Tabriz, with its Persian, Azerbaijani and Turkish influences, and Baku, with its modern skyline and Caspian charm.

Additionally, a Program of Cultural Exchange for 2025–2028 aims to deepen ties between the two cities through joint festivals and exhibitions.

Obstacles remain

"These flights will facilitate trade ties, allowing our entrepreneurs to collaborate seamlessly," Bahram Sarmast, the governor of Iran's East Azerbaijan, told IRNA.

"From Azerbaijan's oil and gas expertise to Iran's manufacturing prowess, we are building a corridor of prosperity," he said.

But some experts remain cautious.

"For Baku, strategic ties with Israel are undoubtedly prioritized over its relatively modest trade volume with Iran," said Nikola Mikovic, a journalist and expert on the region's affairs.

"The restoration of aviation routes between the two countries is a positive step," said Umud Shokri, an expert in Central Asian and Middle Eastern affairs.

"But despite a shared border and cultural and ethnic ties, the volume of trade may remain limited due to economic incompatibilities and weak transportation infrastructure," he told Pishtaz.