F1 photographer Kym Illman faces camera trouble at Tashkent Airport
Australian Formula 1 photographer and content creator Kym Illman has shared an account of his visit to Uzbekistan, describing difficulties getting his professional camera equipment through security at Tashkent International Airport.
Illman, known for photographing Formula 1 drivers and sharing behind-the-scenes content from race weekends, published three Instagram videos about his trip. Two focused on his experience flying business class with Uzbekistan Airways, while the third detailed his problems with airport security.
The photographer has not publicly explained the purpose of his visit.
What happened at Tashkent Airport?
According to Illman, airport personnel initially refused to let him enter the terminal with his camera, pointing to a sign prohibiting cameras.
He attempted to enter through another terminal but encountered the same restriction.
With nine hours remaining before his flight, Illman returned to Tashkent to have lunch and consider his options.
He later returned to the airport with his camera equipment disassembled and packed separately. Although he managed to enter the terminal, security officers stopped him again during pre-flight screening.
An officer questioned him about the camera’s value and asked him to identify several accessories, including a microphone, tripod and portable light.
Illman did not report that his equipment was confiscated.
What are Uzbekistan’s rules for professional cameras?
Uzbekistan’s aviation security regulations provide for the inspection of professional photographic equipment carried in hand luggage. Large cameras are not automatically prohibited, although security personnel may inspect them.
Professional filming inside airport terminals is a separate matter. Uzbekistan Airports’ published terminal rules require written authorisation for professional photography and filming, with additional permission needed in customs and border control areas.
Travellers carrying expensive or professional equipment should check the requirements with their airline and airport before travelling. They should also:
- Carry an inventory of cameras, lenses and accessories, including their values and serial numbers.
- Check whether the equipment requires a customs declaration or temporary import documentation.
- Keep purchase receipts or proof of ownership available.
- Present equipment for inspection when requested and seek clarification from airport officials if problems arise.
Uzbekistan recognises the ATA Carnet system for certain categories of temporarily imported professional equipment. However, the documentation required depends on the equipment and purpose of travel.
Illman praises Uzbekistan Airways business class
Despite the difficulties at the airport, Illman gave a largely positive assessment of Uzbekistan Airways.
On an Airbus A320neo flight, he praised the cabin crew, comfortable business class seating, onboard Wi-Fi and amenities kit. He also highlighted the food selection and in-seat charging facilities.
He later reviewed the airline’s Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, noting its 18-seat business class cabin arranged in a 2-2-2 configuration.
Although he acknowledged that the seats offered less privacy than some competing airlines, he considered the product good value for money and complimented the English-speaking crew.
Illman has worked as an accredited Formula 1 photographer since 2017 and built a large social media following through his coverage of drivers, teams and paddock life.
His latest videos offer an unusual account of travelling through Uzbekistan.
