Kazakhstan, France to Strengthen Cooperation on Civil Aviation Training

Astana, The Gulf Observer: Kazakhstan and France have reached an agreement to cooperate in civil aviation training, the Kazakh Ministry of Transport announced, as the country seeks to address a growing demand for aviation specialists estimated at 500–600 personnel annually. The required expertise spans pilots, engineers, air traffic controllers, ground service staff, and other critical aviation roles.

The initiative aligns with President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s directive to modernize Kazakhstan’s talent development system and deepen cooperation with leading international academic institutions. A Kazakh delegation led by Deputy Transport Minister Talgat Lastayev held a working meeting with Olivier Chansou, Director General of the École Nationale de l’Aviation Civile (ENAC), France’s National School of Civil Aviation, and Deputy Director General Nicolas Cazalis.

Discussions focused on plans to establish a regional aviation training center in Astana. The proposed facility would serve as a Central Asian hub for advanced civil aviation education and significantly reduce Kazakhstan’s reliance on foreign training institutions. It is expected to ensure a steady pipeline of qualified specialists to support the nation’s fast-growing aviation sector.

Kazakhstan’s civil aviation industry has seen rapid expansion in recent years, driven by rising passenger numbers, new flight routes, infrastructure upgrades, and an expanding aircraft fleet. This growth has underscored the urgent need for a sustainable workforce of highly trained professionals.

ENAC is recognized as the only aviation school that fully meets the standards of major international organizations, including the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), the International Air Transport Association (IATA), and Airports Council International (ACI).

The partnership with ENAC aims to address Kazakhstan’s shortage of skilled aviation personnel, enhance flight safety, improve regulatory oversight, and support ongoing development of the country’s aviation infrastructure.

During the visit, ENAC representatives also guided the Kazakh delegation through key training facilities. Both sides affirmed their commitment to continued cooperation in the field of aviation education and capacity building.