ASTANA – Kazakhstan’s low-cost airline FlyArystan has joined the International Air Transport Association (IATA), an industry body representing airlines worldwide. IATA represents more than 370 airlines across more than 120 countries, accounting for nearly 85% of global air traffic.
It develops industry standards covering aviation safety, security, operational efficiency and sustainability. Membership will allow FlyArystan to collaborate with other airlines and IATA on industry-wide priorities, including safety standards, operational practices and the future development of air transport, the airline’s press service reported.
“Joining IATA is a natural next step for FlyArystan as we continue to expand our network and international presence,” said Johan Eidhagen, the airline’s president and chief executive officer. He added that membership would provide opportunities to exchange expertise with international industry peers and contribute to discussions on the sector’s future.
Rafael Schvartzman, IATA’s regional vice president for Europe, welcomed the airline’s membership, noting the economic contribution of aviation to Kazakhstan. Air transport directly generates $2.1 billion in economic output in Kazakhstan, Schvartzman said, adding that the participation of growing airlines such as FlyArystan could support further development of the sector.
Earlier, IATA reported that immigration requirements discouraged 43% of surveyed air passengers from visiting a destination, up from 33% in 2025. The findings also showed that travelers are embracing artificial intelligence and biometric technology to simplify their journeys, according to a new IATA survey.