Kazakhstan resumes regular flights to Arkalyk after 30 years of hiatus
Kazakhstan has restored regular air service to Arkalyk, a city in Kostanay region, for the first time in three decades. Beginning August 22, 2026, flights will connect the city with Astana, Almaty, and Kostanay, Qazinform News Agency reports, citing the Ministry of Transport.
Flights between Astana and Arkalyk will be operated by SCAT airline twice a week, with one‑way fares set at 10,000 tenge.
The Almaty-Arkalyk-Almaty service will also operate twice a week, priced at 25,000 per ticket. In addition, a regional Kostanay-Arkalyk route will be launched, also twice a week, with ticket prices set at 10,000 tenge.
Earlier, on August 12, 2026, Arkalyk Airport regained its three‑letter IATA code AYK, a key step in preparing the airport for the resumption of scheduled flights.
The airport has resumed operations three decades after its closure. Officials say the restoration of air service will improve Arkalyk’s transport accessibility, expand mobility for residents, foster business ties, and attract investment.
The launch ceremony was attended by Vice Minister of Transport Talgat Lastayev, Deputy Governor of Kostanay region Berik Tanjarikov, as well as representatives of the regional administration, aviation industry, and local community.
Earlier, it was reported that construction of a new airport will kick off in Astana next year.