On August 22, 2026, after a 33-year hiatus, Arkalyk was once again connected to Astana by regular flights. Today, the first passenger flight on the Astana – Arkalyk – Astana route took place.

The resumption of air service became possible thanks to the restoration and modernization of Arkalyk Airport. The work was carried out in accordance with the instruction of the Head of State given at the IV meeting of the National Kurultai.

The main objective of the project is to provide convenient and affordable air service for residents of Arkalyk and nearby districts.

A new passenger terminal, an emergency rescue station, a garage for special equipment, a checkpoint, and a control tower have been built at the airport. The runway, taxiway, and apron have also been reconstructed.

The airport has received an aviation security service certificate. Instrument approach charts have been published in the AIP of Kazakhstan.

To date, the newly built airport has completed all certification procedures. On August 3, the airport received Aviation Security Service Certificate No. 8/26. On August 18, it received Certificate No. 21 from the RSE "Kazaeronavigatsia" as an air navigation service provider. On August 21, Aerodrome Certificate of Fitness Series ARD No. KZ01VKC00000389 was issued.

Currently, Arkalyk Airport is ready to receive and service regional passenger aircraft of the CRJ200 type. Three routes are available for residents of Arkalyk and nearby settlements:

Astana – Arkalyk – Astana;

Almaty – Arkalyk – Almaty;

Kostanay – Arkalyk – Kostanay.

Following the results of the tender, SCAT Airlines was designated as the carrier. Thanks to government subsidies, the ticket price to Astana and Kostanay will be 10,000 tenge, and to Almaty 25,000 tenge.

The new route will improve transport links for residents of Arkalyk, Amangeldy and Zhangeldy districts of Kostanay Region, as well as Zharkain District of Akmola Region.

More than 80,000 people will have the opportunity to travel faster to other regions of the country, including for medical, educational, and government services.

The new route also creates additional opportunities for business development, attracting investment, and economic growth in the Torgai region. The project plans to create 136 new jobs.

The opening of the air route was accompanied by a theatrical and musical performance that took place at Astana Airport, on board the aircraft, and upon arrival in Arkalyk.

In Arkalyk, passengers of the first flight were greeted with music, songs, and shashu.

The return of regular flights after 33 years became an important event for Arkalyk and the entire Torgai region. Now residents have convenient air connections with the country's largest cities, and the region has new opportunities for business development and attracting investment.

Source : https://www.gov.kz/memleket/entities/kostanay/press/news/details/1278388?lang=ru