Kazakhstan’s Aviation Sector Takes Off — Euronews Highlights National Growth Strategy, DKnews.kz reports.
In a special episode of East-West Connect by Euronews, leading Kazakh experts spoke about the country's ambitious plans to transform its aviation sector into a powerful regional hub. The program aired to more than 400 million viewers in 160 countries, shining an international spotlight on Kazakhstan’s rapidly growing air infrastructure.
A New Altitude for Civil Aviation
Talgat Lastayev, Vice Minister of Transport of the Republic of Kazakhstan, emphasized that the civil aviation sector has been growing steadily by 10–15% annually over the past five years.
Major infrastructure upgrades are already underway:
- Almaty International Airport — the largest in Central Asia — is set to receive a $302 million investment from TAV Group
- Aktau Airport — another key project — will attract over $1 billion in investment
Lastayev noted that Kazakhstan’s aviation industry is on the brink of large-scale transformation. Over the next few years, the sector is expected to triple in size, with a strong focus on digitalization, smart technologies, and enhancing service quality.
Air Astana: Setting Regional Standards
Peter Foster, President and CEO of Air Astana, one of the most recognized carriers in Central Asia, highlighted the company’s success in cost control, customer service excellence, and strict adherence to safety standards.
Air Astana
Air Astana is currently the only national airline in Central Asia listed on a stock exchange, with its shares trading on both the London Stock Exchange and the Kazakhstan Stock Exchange (KASE).
The airline continues to grow its international footprint and partnerships, cementing its role as a driving force in regional connectivity.
Expanding Routes, Welcoming Low-Cost Carriers
According to Nurlan Zhakupov, Chairman of the Management Board of Samruk-Kazyna, Kazakhstan’s air network now includes over 70 destinations. He noted that Air Astana acts as a catalyst for national economic growth, while the country is also opening its skies to foreign low-cost carriers, including:
- SpiceJet (India)
- Eastar Jet and T’way Air (South Korea)
- AirAsia X (Thailand)
These carriers offer new travel options for Kazakh citizens and enhance the country’s integration into global aviation routes.
Strategic Oversight from Samruk-Kazyna
All major aviation and infrastructure projects are strategically overseen by the Samruk-Kazyna Sovereign Wealth Fund, ensuring consistent and long-term development.
Kazakhstan is no longer just upgrading its airports — it’s building the foundation for a tech-enabled, future-ready aviation ecosystem that connects East and West.
