Kazakhstan Travel Growth Accelerates as 12.4 Million Passengers Fly and New Air Routes Expand

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Kazakhstan travel boom as 12.4 million passengers fly nationwide and new air routes open up. Kazakhstan’s travel and aviation industry is set for a boost in 2026 as passenger numbers rise, international air links grow and major airport developments take place. Airlines operating within the country transported 12.4 million passengers during the first nine months of 2026, while Kazakhstan’s airports handled 136,500 tonnes of cargo during the same period. The figures highlight the growing importance of aviation in catering to domestic travel, international tourism and the movement of goods. At the same time, Kazakhstan is expanding its route network, building up airport infrastructure and laying out a long-term civil aviation strategy that could transform the country’s air transport sector.

Kazakhstan Expands International Air Connectivity

Kazakhstan’s international air route network has continued to grow during 2026. The country is now connected by air with 31 countries and 137 destinations, strengthening access for both inbound and outbound travellers.

Kazakh and foreign airlines have introduced 24 new air routes, creating additional travel options and improving links with international markets. The expansion supports Kazakhstan’s wider effort to strengthen its position as an aviation and transport centre while giving travellers greater flexibility when planning journeys.

More international routes can also help Kazakhstan improve access to key tourism and business destinations. Better connectivity is particularly important for a geographically large country where aviation plays a major role in linking cities and connecting domestic destinations with global markets.

Long-Term Civil Aviation Plan Targets 2050

Kazakhstan is also working on a master plan for civil aviation through 2050 in cooperation with the International Civil Aviation Organization.

The long-term programme is intended to establish a structured development model for the country’s aviation industry. It is expected to guide future planning across airports, airlines, infrastructure, cargo operations and aviation services.

The strategy reflects Kazakhstan’s intention to move beyond short-term airport expansion and route growth. Instead, authorities are seeking to create a coordinated framework that could support sustainable aviation development over several decades.

For travellers, long-term planning could eventually translate into better airport facilities, improved route networks, more efficient services and stronger connections between Kazakhstan and international destinations.

Cargo Aviation Becomes a Strategic Priority

Cargo aviation is becoming another important part of Kazakhstan’s aviation strategy. The government has introduced support measures aimed at strengthening domestic cargo carriers.

These measures include preferential import conditions for selected categories of cargo aircraft. Domestic cargo airlines are also being given wider opportunities to access international markets.

Kazakhstan’s location between Europe and Asia gives cargo aviation particular strategic importance. Expanding airport freight capacity and developing specialised logistics facilities could help the country strengthen its role in regional and international transport networks.

A new national cargo carrier, Alatau Air Cargo, is preparing to begin operations in the near future. Its planned launch adds another component to Kazakhstan’s wider effort to expand air freight capacity and develop a stronger aviation logistics sector.

Astana Airport Plans Major Expansion Through 2035

Astana International Airport has presented a development strategy covering the period through 2035.

The plan includes the construction of a second runway, which could increase operational capacity and support future growth in passenger and cargo traffic.

Cargo infrastructure is also expected to be expanded, while digitalisation forms another central part of the airport’s development programme.

The strategy indicates that Astana is preparing for higher aviation demand while strengthening its ability to handle passenger movements, freight operations and more complex airport activity.

For travellers, improved airport capacity and digital services could eventually support smoother airport operations as traffic increases.

Karaganda Pushes Ahead With QarGo Hub

Karaganda Airport is developing its QarGo Hub concept as part of Kazakhstan’s growing focus on air freight and logistics.

The airport expects cargo traffic to reach 61,000 tonnes in 2026. The forecast highlights Karaganda’s ambitions to become an increasingly important cargo centre within the country.

The hub concept aligns with Kazakhstan’s broader effort to build specialised aviation infrastructure and create stronger links between air transport and logistics.

Cargo expansion could also support wider economic activity by helping businesses move goods more efficiently across domestic and international markets.

Aktau Aviation Hub Could Attract Up to $500 Million

Aktau is another major focus of Kazakhstan’s aviation development plans. A proposed aviation and logistics hub could attract between $400 million and $500 million in investment.

The project reflects Kazakhstan’s intention to develop multiple aviation centres rather than concentrate future growth in a single airport.

Aktau’s position makes it particularly relevant to regional transport and logistics development. A large-scale aviation hub could strengthen its role in air freight while also supporting broader connectivity.

The scale of potential investment demonstrates how aviation infrastructure is becoming a major part of Kazakhstan’s long-term transport strategy.

Shymkent Aviation Hub Targets Infrastructure Growth

SCAT is developing an extensive programme aimed at strengthening Shymkent as an aviation hub.

The programme includes 12 investment projects covering aircraft maintenance and the expansion of airport infrastructure.

Investment in aircraft maintenance could help Kazakhstan strengthen its domestic aviation services while reducing dependence on external facilities. Airport infrastructure upgrades could also increase Shymkent’s ability to handle future passenger and airline growth.

Together, the projects are designed to build a stronger aviation ecosystem around one of Kazakhstan’s important regional centres.

Domestic Air Travel Affordability Remains Important

Alongside international connectivity and infrastructure development, Kazakhstan is also focusing on the affordability of domestic air travel.

Smaller regional airports continue to face challenges related to financial sustainability and long-term development. Maintaining viable regional airports is important because Kazakhstan’s large geography makes air travel an essential transport option for many domestic journeys.

Vietjet Qazaqstan has also presented proposals aimed at developing the domestic aviation market. The plans focus on improving the affordability of air travel while supporting sustainable industry growth.

Affordable domestic fares could help make air travel more accessible and strengthen tourism links between Kazakhstan’s regions.

Kazakhstan Builds a Broader Aviation Future

Kazakhstan’s aviation expansion in 2026 extends far beyond rising passenger numbers. With 12.4 million passengers carried in nine months, 137 international destinations, 24 new routes and major airport projects advancing across Astana, Karaganda, Aktau and Shymkent, the country is building a broader aviation network.

Kazakhstan’s aviation sector is set to thrive in 2026, having already transported 12.4 million passengers in just nine months. New routes, airport infrastructure developments, and cargo-related initiatives are set to enhance the country’s network of air travel.

Meanwhile, the investment in cargo development, airport infrastructure, and the proposed Civil Aviation Strategy through 2050 indicate a longer term commitment towards transformation. With new routes, infrastructure and cargo developments taking place, Kazakhstan will be laying the platform for a thriving travel and aviation industry which will benefit both the residents and the trade sector for years to come.