Air Astana Signs MoU for Up to 50 Airbus A320neo Family Jets

Kazakhstan’s flag carrier Air Astana Group has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on November 21, 2025 with Airbus for up to 50 A320neo family aircraft, marking the largest single fleet order in the airline’s history.

The agreement includes 25 firm orders and 25 purchase options, covering a mix of A320neo and A321neo variants, with initial deliveries scheduled for 2031. Many of the aircraft will be configured as A321LRs (Long Range)—a model Air Astana has successfully deployed on extended routes between Asia and Europe. The airline was among the first to adopt a premium cabin configuration for this aircraft type, offering enhanced passenger comfort on longer-haul narrowbody flights.

“Air Astana’s large order for a new fleet of Airbus A320neo family aircraft reflects our commitment to maintaining operational efficiency, sustainability, and service excellence well into the future,” said Peter Foster, President and CEO of Air Astana. “The A320neo family has consistently delivered outstanding performance in our operations, and this next-generation fleet will support our long-term growth and profitability.”

The A320neo family is renowned for its fuel efficiency and lower emissions, offering up to 20% reduced fuel burn and a 50% smaller noise footprint compared to previous-generation aircraft. Air Astana’s expanded partnership with Airbus reinforces its position as one of Central Asia’s most modern and forward-looking carriers.

As of November 2025, Air Astana operates a modern and diverse fleet that includes the Airbus A320neo, A321-200, A321neo, and A321LR, alongside the widebody Boeing 767-300ER for long-haul operations. The airline continues to expand and renew its fleet, having placed an order for eight Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners. The addition of the 787-9s and A320neos ordered at the Dubai Airshow 2025 marks a major step in Air Astana’s long-term growth strategy, enhancing its intercontinental network with greater fuel efficiency, lower emissions, and improved passenger comfort.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, airbus.com, laranews.net