News / Azerbaijan opens its skies to foreign carriers as it eyes trade hub status

© Alexey Novikov

Azerbaijan looks set to see greater use of its airports by foreign carriers following the country’s decision to open up landing rights and offer free services and subsidies to visiting airlines. 

Since 1 January Azerbaijan is offering fifth and seventh freedom rights to some 40 countries in Europe, North America and Asia. 

One of the attractions for carriers will be the 100% discount on airport services for any new airline in its first year of operating in the country. The discount falls to 70% in the second year, ...