A New Gateway for Aviation Growth in Central Asia

Shymkent, Kazakhstan — July 2025. Central Asia is rapidly solidifying its role as a key hub for regional and intercontinental air traffic. Shymkent International Airport (IATA: CIT) is entering a new era with the launch of Terminal A—a modern passenger facility designed to support large-scale aviation growth and expand air connectivity across the region.

Why Shymkent?

A Strategic Location for Regional and Intercontinental Hubs

Located in Kazakhstan’s third-largest city, Shymkent sits at the crossroads of major transport and trade corridors—from the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR) to the China–Europe rail networks. This makes the airport a prime location for both passenger and cargo operations.

With a population of over 1.2 million, a dynamic business environment, and strong growth in domestic and international tourism, Shymkent is increasingly viewed as the southern air gateway of Kazakhstan, attracting airlines, logistics companies, and investors.

Terminal A: Operational Today, Built for Tomorrow

Opened in late 2024, Terminal A meets the highest standards of a modern airport infrastructure:

· Passenger Capacity: 2 million annually, expandable to 5 million

· Smart Baggage Handling System (BHS): Automated sorting lines, real-time tracking, and airline integration

· Security: Predictive screening, biometric passenger ID, integration with government databases

· Passenger Services: Dedicated CIP and VIP lounges, fast-track control and passport clearance

· Navigation & Comfort: Multilingual digital wayfinding (Kazakh, Russian, English, Chinese), accessible via mobile app

· Technology: Self check-in and bag-drop kiosks, high-speed Wi-Fi, universal charging stations

· Sustainability: Energy-efficient lighting, heat recovery systems, eco-certified materials, and rooftop solar panels

Expanding Route Network: A Growing Map of Connectivity

Shymkent International Airport is already linked to key destinations across the region and beyond. In 2025, the route network continues to expand:

· Central Asia & Domestic Kazakhstan: ▪ Tashkent, Bishkek, Dushanbe, Almaty, Astana, Aktau, Atyrau

· Middle East & Gulf Region: ▪ Dubai (FlyDubai, SCAT), Doha (Qatar Airways), Sharjah (Air Arabia)

· Europe & Turkey: ▪ Istanbul (Turkish Airlines, Pegasus), Ankara, Warsaw, Frankfurt

· Russia & CIS: ▪ Moscow (Aeroflot, Red Wings, SCAT), St. Petersburg, Kazan, Yekaterinburg, Novosibirsk

· Asia: ▪ Beijing, Urumqi, Xi’an, Mumbai (in development), Bangkok

· Southeast Asia & South Korea (under negotiation): ▪ Seoul, Kuala Lumpur, Ho Chi Minh City, Manila

Airlines Already Operating at Shymkent:

· SCAT Airlines (based at CIT)

· Air Astana

· FlyArystan

· Qazaq Air

· Turkish Airlines

· FlyDubai

· Red Wings

· Pegasus Airlines

· Qatar Airways

· Uzbekistan Airways

· Air Arabia — with more to come

Incentives for Airline Partners: A Strategic Market Entry

In cooperation with government agencies, the airport operator offers compelling incentives for launching new routes:

· Discounted airport fees for new destinations

· Joint marketing and promotional support

· Flexible and protected slot allocation

· Overnight parking and efficient ground handling availability

· Assistance with opening local offices and representation

Cargo Opportunities: A Logistics Hub Ready for Growth

Southern Kazakhstan is a major industrial and agricultural region with strong export potential. Shymkent’s proximity to logistics zones makes it an ideal location for a cargo terminal, included in the airport’s long-term master plan.

· Planned development of a modern air cargo hub with cold-chain and veterinary infrastructure

· Simplified customs and cargo handling procedures

· Free economic zone located within close proximity to the airport