Kazakhstan's civil aviation sector is undergoing a significant transformation, with official data revealing that the industry transported 20.8 million passengers while the country's airports collectively served 31.8 million people during the latest reporting cycle. The figures emerged during a government meeting chaired by Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov, where officials examined the nation's transit and transport capabilities.
Almaty Airport led the country's aviation traffic, handling 12 million travelers, while Astana Airport followed closely with 9.2 million passengers passing through its facilities. These two major hubs are expected to play central roles in Kazakhstan's broader connectivity strategy as the sector expands.
The Ministry of Transport presented an infrastructure roadmap encompassing 11 major projects scheduled for completion by 2028. The program includes construction of four new airports, installation of two additional runways, and comprehensive modernization of existing facilities across five cities. Officials framed the initiative as critical to unlocking Kazakhstan's potential as a transit corridor linking Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
International connectivity is set to strengthen considerably. The route network will expand to 135 destinations across 30 countries in 2026, representing growth from the 115 routes operated in 2024. A new direct service between Almaty and Shanghai has already been launched, reflecting efforts to deepen air links with major Asian markets.
Kazakhstan's airports are maintaining a competitive cost advantage in the region, with jet fuel prices averaging around $800 per ton—significantly lower than comparable charges at neighboring facilities. This pricing strategy has supported efforts to attract foreign carriers, resulting in recent additions including Centrum Air from Uzbekistan, Shiraq Avia from Armenia, Martinair from the Netherlands, One Air from the United Kingdom, Atlas Air from the United States, and MNG Airlines from Türkiye.
Freight operations also featured in the government's assessment. JSC KTZ Air Cargo outlined plans to broaden its route network and reinforce the resilience of Kazakhstan's cargo transport system. Prime Minister Bektenov directed officials to address gaps in the procurement of smaller aircraft, calling for refined financing mechanisms to support airlines requiring regional fleet additions.