Kazakh Prime Minister Chairs Meeting on Almaty International Airport Development under Horizon 2050 Program
Astana, The Gulf Observer: Prime Minister Olzhas Bektenov chaired a meeting on the ongoing development of Almaty International Airport, in line with President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s directive to establish a major international air hub, the Government’s press service reported.
During the meeting, Serkan Kaptan, CEO of TAV Airports Holding, and Gökhan Köse, President of Almaty International Airport, presented progress updates on the Horizon 2050 strategic development program, which outlines large-scale modernization and infrastructure expansion plans for the airport.
Reconstruction works are currently underway on the domestic terminal, along with the construction of a modern de-icing platform, soundproofing of nearby residential areas, and other key upgrades. The long-term concept includes the creation of three runways, with the main runway to be fully rebuilt, as well as the construction of cargo aprons, logistics and storage facilities, and state-of-the-art passenger terminals and related infrastructure.
Upon completion, the modernization project is expected to increase the airport’s annual capacity to 55 million passengers and 500,000 tons of cargo by 2050. Currently, Almaty International Airport serves over 12 million passengers annually, accounting for approximately 70% of Kazakhstan’s total air traffic.
Representatives of TAV Airports Holding reported that $260 million has already been invested in the project, affirming the company’s commitment to reinvest airport profits to ensure the timely completion of all stages of development.
Prime Minister Bektenov emphasized that the Almaty Airport project forms part of an integrated national transport and logistics ecosystem, being developed under the President’s initiative across six major cities of Kazakhstan. He highlighted the importance of adhering to the project schedule to deliver next-generation aviation infrastructure and expand the country’s international connectivity.
To enhance accessibility, the meeting also reviewed plans for constructing a ring road around the airport, designed to connect the city highway, the Big Almaty Ring Road (BAKAD), the cargo terminal, and the main entrance, facilitating smoother traffic flow and faster access. Ensuring a stable supply and storage of aviation fuel was also identified as a key operational priority.
Concluding the session, Prime Minister Bektenov instructed the relevant ministries and the Almaty City Akimat (administration) to maintain strict oversight of the reconstruction process, ensuring high quality and timely implementation.
According to earlier reports, 130 projects were identified for implementation in the initial phase of the Almaty Airport development program, marking a significant step toward transforming the airport into a leading international aviation hub in Central Asia.
