Kazakhstan to Launch State-Backed Cargo Airline by 2026

Kazakhstan is set to launch a new national cargo-only airline in early 2026, aiming to position the country as a key player in global air freight. Backed by Samruk-Kazyna, the nation’s sovereign wealth fund, the initiative has received full endorsement from President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev.

The carrier will begin operations with a fleet of three leased aircraft, with long-term plans to grow the fleet to 10. The move aligns with Kazakhstan’s broader strategy to enhance its role as a major intercontinental logistics hub, leveraging its strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, the Middle East, and China—where nearly 15% of global air cargo transits.

This new venture builds on the country’s ongoing aviation expansion, including major upgrades across 20 airports and fleet investments by domestic airlines. Kazakhstan has emerged as the leading aviation market in Central Asia, one of the fastest-growing regions for commercial air traffic.

In addition to the airline launch, the government has pledged $2.9 billion toward infrastructure development. Projects include three greenfield airports—Katon-Karagay, Zaisan, and Kenderli—and the full restoration of Arkalyk Airport. These developments aim to support the growth of both cargo and passenger traffic, with rising interest from foreign carriers, particularly from the Middle East and India.

Kazakhstan joins other nations like Saudi Arabia in pursuing top-down strategies to strengthen their air cargo sectors, highlighting a global trend in state-led logistics expansion.

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