The prospects for developing Kazakhstan's civil aviation, establishing aviation hubs, and creating new opportunities for domestic carriers and airports were discussed in Astana at the VIII International Transport and Logistics Business Forum "New Silk Way."

Chair of the Civil Aviation Committee of the Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Saltanat Tompiyeva, presented key sector achievements and development priorities in the context of implementing the tasks set by Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to strengthen Kazakhstan's transport and logistics potential.

During the first nine months of 2026, Kazakhstani airlines carried 12.4 million passengers, while airports handled 136.5 thousand tonnes of cargo. The international route network spans 31 countries and 137 destinations, with 24 new air routes opened by domestic and foreign airlines.

Along with implementing short-term industry objectives, a Master Plan through 2050 is being developed in collaboration with ICAO. It is designed to define the long-term development model for the sector.

Air cargo transport also remains among the key priority areas. The government has already provided support measures for domestic cargo carriers, including preferential terms for importing certain categories of freighter aircraft and expanding opportunities to access international markets.

Aviation market participants also outlined concrete plans. Astana International Airport presented its development strategy through 2035, which envisages the construction of a second runway, cargo infrastructure expansion, and digitalization. Karaganda Airport is advancing its QarGo Hub concept, projecting cargo traffic to reach 61,000 tonnes this year. In Aktau, an aviation and logistics hub project was presented with potential investments ranging from USD 400 million to USD 500 million.

Special attention was devoted to the affordability of domestic air travel. Petropavl Airport highlighted issues relevant to small regional airports, including ensuring their economic sustainability and further development.

SCAT Airlines presented a large-scale program to develop an aviation hub in Shymkent, encompassing 12 investment projects, including aircraft maintenance capabilities and airport infrastructure expansion.

Vietjet Qazaqstan shared its vision for domestic aviation market development and presented proposals to enhance air travel affordability while ensuring sustainable industry growth.

National cargo carrier Alatau Air Cargo is preparing to launch operations in the near future.

Furthermore, aviation development is viewed as a shared goal for all industry stakeholders. Saltanat Tompiyeva emphasized the importance of continuous dialogue with airlines, airports, and other market participants.

This approach ensures that the actual needs of the sector are taken into account during governmental decision-making and that practical steps for transport development are determined collaboratively.