Almaty hosted the 2nd round table of airlines heads of Central Asia (CA), including Air Astana, QAZAQ Air and SCAT (Kazakhstan), AviaTraffic (Kyrgyzstan), Somon Air (Tajikistan) and AZAL (Azerbaijan), as well as representatives of IATA (International Air Transport Association). The participants discussed aviation development prospects in the industry, the European Union's strategy and regulatory framework for air traffic, airport taxes and API-PNR passenger data systems.

During the meeting, the Kazakh aviation authorities presented a new approach to the regulation of the industry for the first time in the CIS countries with the establishment of "Aviation Administration of Kazakhstan"JSC, which was positively perceived by IATA representatives and aviation experts. Also, the introduction of the Open Skies regime at several airports in Kazakhstan was noted as a positive indicator in the development of civil aviation in Central Asia.

A meeting of the Chairman of the Civil Aviation Committee of the MIID RK with the regional head of IATA Raimonds Gruintis was held at the round table event. It was confirmed that the change of Nursultan Nazarbayev airport code will be executed in April 2020. The relevant procedures are currently under way.

During the round table, airlines emphasized that safety is a top priority for the aviation community and joint efforts are needed to achieve the highest level of safety. In particular, IOSA audit is an important programme that provides higher safety standards for airlines and regulators should consider the audit as an important programme to improve flight safety. Airlines advocate for effective competition in the supply of aviation fuel at airports. To this end, it is proposed to introduce regulations that encourage effective competition at airports through open and non-discriminatory access to the market by suppliers of aviation fuel for the supply and sale of aviation fuel to airlines at airports. Open access will increase free and fair competition, which in turn will lead to lower prices and improved service levels.

In addition, the strengthening of cooperation between the aviation community and the European Union authorities is considered. It will provide better communication and the achievement of common goals in aviation using the best practices. Stronger engagement with a wide range of aviation stakeholders, including airlines, airports, governments and its agencies, as well as international organizations, brings great value to all parties involved.