Kazakhstan Expands Aviation Routes to Europe

Kazakhstan is enhancing its air connectivity with several new routes and agreements. SCAT Airlines has commenced direct charter flights from Astana and Almaty to Sihanoukville, Cambodia, with the inaugural flights taking place on October 24 and 29, respectively. Additionally, a new cargo route from Taiyuan, China to Almaty has been established, operating twice weekly, further boosting trade links. Ethiopian Airlines is expanding its operations in Russia and considering Kazan Airport as a second hub, aiming to increase flights from regional airports. Furthermore, direct flights between Kazakhstan and Austria are planned for spring 2025, while the Kazakh government is finalizing agreements to enhance air traffic with multiple EU countries, following the lifting of previous restrictions. These developments reflect a broader strategy to improve Kazakhstan's aviation landscape and international trade connections.