Almaty International Airport, the country’s largest air gateway, is moving closer to a new stage of development. The future of the airport and the implementation of major investment plans were discussed during a meeting between Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Kazakhstan Alibek Kuantyrov, Deputy Chairman of the Management Board of Kazakh Invest Madiyar Sultanbek, and Goker Kose, President of Almaty International Airport, DKNews.kz reports.
The talks focused on how ongoing and planned projects can strengthen Almaty’s role as a key aviation hub not only for Kazakhstan, but for the wider region.
Infrastructure, capacity and service quality
During the meeting, the parties reviewed the current status of projects aimed at expanding airport infrastructure, increasing passenger and cargo capacity, and improving service quality. With passenger flows steadily growing and cargo traffic gaining importance, these issues have become central to the airport’s long-term strategy.
It was also noted that TAV Airports, which operates Almaty International Airport, participates as an observer in the Foreign Investors’ Council under the President of Kazakhstan. This underlines the strategic importance of the airport for the country’s investment agenda and its close interaction with international partners.
A regional aviation hub in focus
Goker Kose presented the airport’s current vision for development, describing Almaty International Airport as a key hub for both international and regional air transportation. He outlined the main stages of the investment program and addressed practical challenges related to the phased implementation of projects, infrastructure load, and further capacity expansion.
Special attention was paid to ensuring sustainable growth in passenger and cargo traffic, as well as improving operational efficiency. These factors are seen as crucial for maintaining competitiveness in an increasingly dynamic aviation market.
Government’s position: balance and predictability
Deputy Minister Alibek Kuantyrov emphasized that aviation infrastructure projects require a balanced approach. According to him, such initiatives must take into account Kazakhstan’s long-term transport priorities, the interests of investors, and the sustainable development of the urban environment.
He stressed that the state views airport development as an essential element of building a competitive national transport system. In this context, the government remains open to continued dialogue and is ready to work on creating predictable and transparent conditions for implementing major investment decisions.
Why it matters for Kazakhstan
Following the discussion, the parties confirmed their interest in further cooperation and close coordination to support Almaty Airport’s investment initiatives. The development of aviation infrastructure was highlighted as one of the key drivers for increasing Kazakhstan’s transit potential, stimulating business activity, and integrating the country more deeply into international logistics and tourism routes.
For Almaty, this means more than just new terminals or additional runways. A stronger airport positions the city as a natural bridge between Europe and Asia, reinforcing Kazakhstan’s ambitions to become a major regional transport and logistics hub.
