FlyArystan Receives Independent Air Operator’s Certificate in Kazakhstan

FlyArystan, Kazakhstan’s prominent low-cost carrier based in Astana Nursultan Nazarbayev, has been granted its own Air Operator’s Certificate (AOC) by the Aviation Administration of Kazakhstan (AAK). This milestone, announced on April 1 following a rigorous audit and examination process, marks a significant step in FlyArystan’s evolution since its inception in 2019. Operating initially under the AOC of its parent company, Air Astana, FlyArystan has now achieved a level of operational independence that aligns more closely with its low-cost business model and growth ambitions.

The transition to becoming a separate legal entity in December 2023, amidst discussions on potential privatisation, reflects a strategic move to diversify Kazakhstan’s aviation sector, currently dominated by three state-owned carriers, including Air Astana and Qazaq Air. This move is seen as a way to introduce more competition and efficiency within the market.

Peter Foster, Chief Executive of the Air Astana Group, highlighted the significance of this development, stating that with plans to expand FlyArystan’s fleet to 24 aircraft by 2024, obtaining its own AOC is timely. This certification not only facilitates the airline’s growth but also paves the way for further international expansion, reinforcing its position as a key player in the regional aviation market.

Currently, FlyArystan boasts a fleet of 19 aircraft, comprising eleven A320-200s and eight A320-200Ns, as per the ch-aviation fleets module. Including FlyArystan’s fleet, the Air Astana Group operates a total of 50 aircraft, signifying a substantial presence in the aviation landscape.

The AAK’s decision to grant FlyArystan an independent AOC is anticipated to stimulate competition in the Kazakh aviation market, supporting the overall growth and development of the industry in the region. This strategic separation allows FlyArystan to further optimize its operations within the low-cost carrier framework, offering more travel opportunities and value to its customers.