Direct flights between Aktau and Istanbul are back. Kazakhstan's low-cost airline FlyArystan has launched a direct service connecting the Caspian coastal city with Türkiye's largest metropolis. Regular flights will begin on October 27, giving travelers in western Kazakhstan more options and potentially attracting more international visitors to the Mangystau region, DKNews.kz reports.
According to FlyArystan, flight FS 7625 departed from Aktau International Airport on October 22 at 5:35 p.m. local time, marking the launch of the route.
Aktau–Istanbul flights to operate twice a week from October 27
Starting October 27, FlyArystan will operate direct flights between Aktau and Istanbul every Tuesday and Saturday.
Under the airline's published schedule, Tuesday flights will depart Aktau at 8:40 a.m. and arrive in Istanbul at 10:35 a.m. Return flights will leave Istanbul at 11:40 a.m. and land in Aktau at 5:05 p.m.
On Saturdays, flights will depart Aktau at 8:35 a.m., arriving in Istanbul at 10:30 a.m. The return service will depart at 11:15 a.m. and arrive in Aktau at 4:40 p.m.
All departure and arrival times are local.
For residents of the Mangystau region, the new connection means traveling to Istanbul without changing planes. Passengers from other parts of Kazakhstan will also be able to access the route through connecting flights in Aktau.
Five UNESCO-listed mosques could boost tourism in Mangystau
The launch comes at a significant moment for the region's tourism industry.
On July 25, 2026, five underground mosques in Mangystau were added to the UNESCO World Heritage List: Beket Ata, Shopan Ata, Karaman Ata, Shakpak Ata and Sultan Upi.
These historic religious sites have held spiritual and cultural significance for centuries. Their international recognition could help draw greater attention to one of Kazakhstan's most distinctive destinations.
Beyond its sacred landmarks, Mangystau is known for its Caspian Sea coastline, dramatic rock formations and extraordinary desert landscapes.
A direct flight from Istanbul could make these attractions more accessible to international travelers.
Bekbol Tileumuratuly Orynbassarov, deputy governor of the Mangystau region, highlighted the importance of international air connectivity for regional tourism.
"Direct air connections are one of the key factors in developing tourism in the region. Mangystau is rightly described as an open-air museum thanks to its unique natural landscapes, Caspian Sea coastline and rich historical and cultural heritage. The inclusion of five underground mosques in the UNESCO World Heritage List this year is particularly significant, creating new prospects for religious and cultural tourism. The launch of FlyArystan's direct flight from Aktau to Istanbul will make the region more accessible to international tourists, help promote its attractions internationally and provide residents with more travel opportunities. I would like to thank FlyArystan and all our partners for their contribution to developing international air connectivity," Orynbassarov said.
However, a new flight route does not automatically guarantee an increase in tourist arrivals. Its long-term impact will depend on passenger demand and how effectively Mangystau attracts international visitors.
Aktau could have seven international FlyArystan routes by December
Istanbul has become FlyArystan's sixth international destination from Aktau.
The airline already operates international services from the city to Baku, Batumi, Dubai, Kutaisi and Urumqi.
Another route is expected to follow later this year.
Starting December 16, 2026, FlyArystan plans to introduce direct flights between Aktau and Yerevan, Armenia's capital. Services are scheduled to operate twice weekly, on Wednesdays and Fridays.
If the launch proceeds as planned, FlyArystan will serve seven international destinations from Aktau by the end of 2026.
Johan Eidhagen, president of FlyArystan, emphasized the city's growing importance within the airline's network.
"We are pleased to connect Aktau and Istanbul with a direct flight. This route is in high demand among residents of western Kazakhstan. Aktau is one of the key hubs in our route network. With the launch of flights to Istanbul and Yerevan, we will be operating services to seven international destinations from Aktau by the end of 2026. Our goal remains unchanged: to give people more opportunities to travel with fares that allow them to pay only for the services they actually need," Eidhagen said.
Aktau is one of FlyArystan's three operating bases, alongside Almaty and Astana.
The expansion of international services strengthens the city's position as an aviation hub in western Kazakhstan. It also creates additional connection options for passengers traveling from other regions of the country.
FlyArystan baggage allowance: What's included in the ticket?
Tickets for the Aktau–Istanbul–Aktau route are available through the official FlyArystan website and the airline's mobile app.
The basic fare includes one piece of carry-on baggage weighing up to 7 kilograms.
Maximum permitted dimensions are 56 × 23 × 36 centimeters.
Checked baggage, seat selection and onboard meals are not included in the basic fare and must be purchased separately.
For passengers traveling light, this pricing model offers an opportunity to avoid paying for unnecessary extras. Those planning to travel with larger suitcases should check the total ticket price, including additional services, before booking.
FlyArystan is a wholly owned subsidiary of Air Astana and operates domestic and international flights using Airbus A320 aircraft.
The airline's growing presence in Aktau reflects the city's expanding role in Kazakhstan's international aviation network.
We previously reported on FlyArystan's plans to restore direct flights between Aktau and Istanbul. With the inaugural flight completed, the route is now moving to a regular twice-weekly schedule from October 27.
