Kazakhstan Initiates Airport Building in Popular Vacation Spots to Boost Tourism Expansion
In the heart of Central Asia, Kazakhstan is making significant strides in its aviation sector with the construction of new airports and the expansion of existing ones. The country's ambitious plans aim to boost logistics, tourism, and trade in key economic and tourist regions.
Three new airports—Zaisan, Katon-Karagay, and Kenderli—are currently under construction as part of Kazakhstan's major aviation infrastructure expansion efforts. These projects, which are actively supported by substantial investments, are integral to a strategic plan announced by the Ministry of Transport and confirmed by the President to enhance airport capacity and expand air routes in underserved areas.
The construction of these airports is ongoing, with no recent reports indicating completion yet. They are part of Kazakhstan's effort to modernize air transport nationwide, which includes renovating runways, terminals, and adding new aircraft to the fleet. Notably, a new airport was recently completed in Turkistan, while Almaty, Shymkent, and Kyzylorda airports have received new terminals that significantly increased their capacity.
The government projects continued rapid growth in passenger traffic and expanded air service, linking these new airports to the goal of developing tourism and regional connectivity, particularly in remote areas such as Katon-Karagay and Zaisan, known for their natural and touristic significance. However, there are no public updates on the exact construction progress milestones or expected completion dates for these three airports.
Meanwhile, other aviation projects are progressing. In Kyzylorda, the Korkyt Ata international airport has enhanced its capacity from 300,000 to two million passengers annually. The new terminal in Almaty now operates flights to 26 countries on 50 routes. Last year, Kazakhstan launched three new passenger terminals in Almaty, Shymkent, and Kyzylorda.
Moreover, a project with SKYHANSA, a Kazakh-German company, is currently underway to build a passenger terminal in the Khorgos - Eastern Gate special economic zone. The number of international air routes from Shymkent airport has been increased to ten, and Kyzylorda's Korkyt Ata international airport now operates 25 domestic flights.
The capacity of the new terminal at Shymkent airport has increased from 800,000 to six million passengers annually. This expansion allows the airport to cater to the growing demand for international travel and supports the government's aim to develop domestic tourism and passenger air transportation by 2025.
The construction of these airports was reported by the Transport Ministry's press service on January 22. As these projects progress, Kazakhstan is set to become a key player in Central Asian aviation, offering improved connectivity and boosting economic growth in the region.
Sports events could potentially benefit from the improved connectivity provided by the new airports in Kazakhstan, such as Zaisan, Katon-Karagay, and Kenderli.With these airports catering to increased passenger traffic and enhanced regional connectivity, it might open opportunities for international sports competitions and tournaments in underdeveloped regions like Katon-Karagay and Zaisan.
