On 12 March 2026 in Astana, QAZAQ AIR JSC (VIETJET QAZAQSTAN) and Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport JSC signed a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at developing the aviation industry, improving transport accessibility, and strengthening the capital’s role as a key regional aviation hub.
The signing of the document aligns with the strategic objectives for developing the country’s transport and logistics infrastructure, outlined by the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, including strengthening Kazakhstan’s transit potential and developing international transport corridors.
The Memorandum provides for the development of a strategic partnership between the airline and the airport, the alignment of infrastructure development plans and the expansion of the route network, as well as joint efforts to improve the quality of passenger services.
Key areas of cooperation will include the development of a hub-based route network with convenient transit connections, modernization of airport infrastructure, and the creation of conditions to support growth in passenger and cargo traffic.
Particular attention within the framework of the partnership will be given to the implementation of the Aerotropolis project based at Astana Airport. The project предусматривает the creation of a modern aviation cluster, including the development of aviation technical infrastructure, the establishment of a cargo logistics hub, as well as the construction of hangar and training facilities.
Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport is the largest aviation hub in the country, serving more than 9 million passengers annually. Further development of its infrastructure and the establishment of an aviation cluster will strengthen Astana’s position as a center of international air transportation.
VIETJET QAZAQSTAN is implementing a development strategy for 2026–2030, which includes expanding both its fleet and route network. In particular, the airline plans a phased increase of its fleet through the introduction of Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, bringing the total fleet size to 20 aircraft, as well as increasing passenger traffic to 7.5–8 million passengers by 2030.
A. Umraliyev, Chairman of the Management Board of VIETJET QAZAQSTAN, noted:
“The signing of the memorandum with Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport is an important step in the implementation of our long-term strategy. We see Astana as a key growth point for expanding the route network, strengthening transit potential, and building a modern aviation ecosystem that will enhance mobility for the population and strengthen Kazakhstan’s position in the international aviation market.”
B. Seidakhmetov, Chairman of the Management Board of Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport JSC, emphasized:
“For Astana Airport, the partnership with VIETJET QAZAQSTAN opens additional opportunities for further infrastructure development, expansion of the route network, and strengthening the capital’s status as an important aviation and logistics center of the region. We believe that the joint work of the parties will bring tangible benefits both for passengers and for the country’s economy as a whole.”
Following the signing, the parties agreed to establish a joint working group that will coordinate the implementation of initiatives, develop project roadmaps, and ensure effective cooperation on infrastructure and organizational matters.