Arkalyk has resumed regular air service after a 30-year hiatus. Starting August 22, flights from the city will operate to Astana, Almaty, and Kostanay. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Kursiv Media.
Astana – Arkalyk route
The first route to open is Astana – Arkalyk – Astana. Flights will be operated by SCAT airline. Flights between Astana and Arkalyk will operate twice a week. A one-way ticket will cost 10,000 tenge.
Almaty – Arkalyk route
The Almaty – Arkalyk – Almaty route will also have two flights per week. A one-way ticket will cost 25,000 tenge.
Kostanay – Arkalyk route
Additionally, an intra-regional route Kostanay – Arkalyk – Kostanay will be launched. It will also operate twice a week, with a one-way ticket costing 10,000 tenge.
Airport preparation
Earlier, on August 12, the Arkalyk airport had its three-letter IATA code — AYK — restored. This was one of the steps in preparing for the resumption of regular air service.
The airport's operations are resuming after a 30-year halt. The Ministry of Transport expects that the opening of flights will improve transport accessibility for Arkalyk and expand opportunities for residents, businesses, and investors.
Launch of the first flight
The launch of the first flight was attended by Vice Minister of Transport Talgat Lastayev, Deputy Akim of Kostanay Region Berik Tanzharikov, representatives of the akimat, the aviation industry, and the public.
Airport certification
Earlier, Kursiv reported that Arkalyk airport had completed reconstruction and passed necessary certification procedures. On August 3, it received a certificate from the aviation security service; on August 18, a certificate from KazAeronavigation as a provider of air navigation services; and on August 21, the airfield was issued an airworthiness certificate.