Within the framework of the 9th international financial forum, Astana Finance Days 2026, a session titled "The Untapped Potential of the Regional Aviation Finance Market in Kazakhstan and Central Asia" took place.

The discussion brought together representatives from the aviation and financial industries, international organizations, the banking sector, and investment companies.

Welcoming remarks were delivered by Saltanat Tompiyeva, Chair of the Civil Aviation Committee (CAA) - Kazakhstan, and Bakhtiyar Tleubekov, Chairman of the Management Board of AIFC Authority.

The session was also attended by Michael Daniel, Chief Executive Officer of the Aviation Administration of Kazakhstan, Kanat Kopbayev, Board Member of the companies Jana Port and Jupiter Jet, Ibrahim Canliel, Chief Executive Officer of the Air Astana, Meruert Zholdybayeva, General Director of Aktau International Airport, Adilbek Umraliyev, CEO of Vietjet Kazakhstan and other international experts.

In her opening remarks, Saltanat Tompiyeva highlighted the rapid growth of Kazakhstan's aviation sector and ongoing efforts to expand international air routes.

"Kazakhstan is a regional aviation leader and a key link in Central Asia's global logistics. We have also achieved our first milestones in the unmanned aircraft sector. Regarding our priorities, we will continue aligning regulatory frameworks with international standards. Our main goals are the development of aviation, the establishment of an AIFC aviation hub, and the strengthening of cooperation with financial institutions," said the Chair of the Civil Aviation Committee.

During the session, experts discussed prospects for developing aviation financing, attracting investments into infrastructure projects and fleet renewal, as well as opportunities to build an efficient financial market for the continued growth of aviation in Kazakhstan and Central Asia.

Particular attention was paid to the necessity of further developing funding mechanisms for airport infrastructure and introducing modern financial instruments.

Participants also noted the high potential of the Central Asian market. The growth of population mobility, business ties, tourism, and trade generates steady demand for air travel, opening up new opportunities for aviation investment.

Holding this session within Astana Finance Days 2026 served as a vital platform for dialogue between the aviation and financial sectors, facilitating discussions on new mechanisms to attract capital for the development of civil aviation in Kazakhstan and Central Asia.