OPTIMIZING HUB ALLOCATION FOR ENHANCED CONNECTIVITY IN UZBEKISTAN AIRWAYS: A BINARY INTEGER PROGRAMMING APPROACH

In response to the need for operational optimization within the aviation industry, this study focuses on enhancing the hub allocation system of Uzbekistan Airways, the national carrier of the Republic of Uzbekistan. The research employs Binary Integer Programming to construct an algebraic model aimed at determining the optimal hub locations to effectively connect 11 local airports with 15 key CIS cities. The decision variables in the model indicate the selection of specific locations as hubs, with the objective of minimizing the total number of hubs while ensuring coverage for all target cities within a 1800-mile radius. Comprehensive data collection was undertaken, sourcing information from Uzbekistan Airways' official website, international aviation bodies such as IATA and ICAO, online distance tools, and interviews with industry insiders. The findings suggest that optimal connectivity can be achieved with minimal hubs, specifically through the strategic use of Tashkent and Nukus, which cover all 15 CIS destinations efficiently. Sensitivity analysis revealed that the feasibility of the model is sensitive to the distance threshold, with adjustments to the threshold and coverage requirements influencing hub selection. Implementing this optimal hub system could significantly reduce operational costs and improve passenger experience by streamlining connections across the CIS region.