At the instruction of the Head of State, the Ministry of Transport of the Republic of Kazakhstan has launched the first flight on the Astana–Arkalyk route following the reconstruction of Arkalyk Airport.

The flights will be operated by SCAT Airlines.

Starting August 22, 2026, flights on the Astana–Arkalyk–Astana route will operate twice a week, with a one-way fare of 10,000 tenge. Flights on the Almaty–Arkalyk–Almaty route will also operate twice a week, with a one-way fare of 25,000 tenge.

In addition, a regional route, Kostanay–Arkalyk–Kostanay, will be launched, with flights operating twice a week at a one-way fare of 10,000 tenge.

Earlier, on August 12, 2026, Arkalyk Airport had its three-letter IATA code, AYK, reinstated, marking an important milestone in preparations for the resumption of regular air services.

It is worth noting that the airport is resuming operations 30 years after its closure. The restoration of air services will provide a significant boost to the region’s socio-economic development, improve Arkalyk’s transport connectivity, expand opportunities for residents’ mobility and business ties, and help attract investment.

The launch event was attended by Vice Minister of Transport of the Republic of Kazakhstan Talgat Lastaev, Deputy Akim of Kostanay Region Berik Tanzharikov, as well as representatives of the regional akimat, the aviation industry and the public.