A close relative of Turkmen President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov, along with his family members, having removed passengers from the whole plane, flew himself. This Turkmen service of the radio "Azatlyk" was informed by two sources independent of each other.

According to them, this happened about a month ago in the air direction of Turkmenabat-Ashgabat. As a result, about 160 passengers, with tickets on hand, did not get on their flight. Relatives of the President returned to Ashgabat from a trip to Koitendag.

The source of the publication quotes the representative of the airport in Turkmenabat: "It happened about a month ago. A close relative of the president with his family for four days came to rest in Koitendag. When they were going back, due to the fact that the special board did not arrive on time, the passengers of the regular flight were not allowed to fly, instead they were sent the entire family of the presidential relative. Passengers did not explain anything ».

Koytendag, located in the Lebap region, is a popular holiday destination. According to the source, close relatives of the president stayed at the state hotel. In Koitendag went to a civilian helicopter. Up until their departure, the residents of the region faced a restriction of movement, police supervision was strengthened.

Another source told the following: "Three weeks ago, more than 160 passengers of an airplane heading from Lebap to Ashgabat were taken off the flight. This flight was canceled by the president's relatives who flew themselves. Even if passengers had not been removed from the flight, there were enough seats on the plane for family members. Despite this, they forced to leave all passengers ".

According to him, the remaining passengers expressed dissatisfaction and collectively complained to the airport management. "The airport management calls the center [to the head office of" Turkmen Airlines "], but also in the center can not give an answer satisfying citizens. Recommend to wait until tomorrow ».

After that, discontent began at the airport. Airport security officers, fearing an intensification of the conflict, again turn to the central office and ask for additional transport, but their request does not give a result.

"Thus, passengers withdrawn from the flight flew from Lebap to Ashgabat only the next day, and those who urgently needed to take a taxi," the source said..

The administrative center of the Lebap region, the city of Turkmenabat, is located 600 kilometers from Ashgabat.

In Koitendag there is a natural reserve, rocks, mountain caves, hot springs, as well as the highest mountain peak of Ayrybaba (3200 meters). Here were found the petrified imprints of dinosaur tracks.