IATA to launch BSP payment system in Uzbekistan by 2026

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has announced plans to implement its Billing and Settlement Plan (BSP) system in Uzbekistan by the end of 2026.

The announcement was made in late April by Rafael Schvartzman, IATA Regional Vice President for Europe, who described the Uzbek market as dynamically developing and among the leading markets in Central Asia in terms of passenger and cargo traffic volumes.

The BSP system is designed to simplify airline ticket sales, financial reporting, and settlement processes between accredited agents and participating airlines.

Currently, around 400 carriers are connected to the system, with operations conducted in approximately 181 countries and territories worldwide.

According to IATA, the combined transaction volume processed through BSP and the related Cargo Accounts Settlement System (CASS) reached US$277 billion in 2024.

Schvartzman said that joining BSP will allow Uzbek airlines to process international financial transactions at lower cost and with greater efficiency, while also expanding their presence in global markets.

He also noted that the opening of an IATA representative office will make the association’s experts more accessible to airlines and airports in the country, supporting the adoption of global industry standards and improving both flight safety and operational efficiency.

The IATA vice president highlighted the economic importance of the aviation sector for Uzbekistan, noting that it accounts for about 0.9% of GDP and provides more than 128,000 jobs.

With appropriate government policy, this contribution could grow significantly, and IATA intends to support the sector’s development in this direction.

Deputy Minister of Transport of Uzbekistan Jasurbek Choriev confirmed the practical demand for the system, saying that many foreign carriers entering the Uzbek market first ask about the availability of BSP. Some airlines have reportedly delayed entry into Uzbekistan specifically until the system is launched, and its introduction is expected to make the country significantly more attractive to global carriers.

Choriev also pointed to tangible economic benefits for national airlines.

As an example, he cited Uzbekistan Airways, stating that before joining BSP the airline paid agent commissions of 10–12%, while after implementation it saved US$8 million.

In addition to reducing commission costs, the system eliminates the need to sign separate agreements with each agent, giving carriers automatic access to the entire BSP agent network.