The reconstruction of the airport in the Kyrgyz city of Karakol has reached its final stage. A popular ski resort is located nearby. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Kursiv Media.
Construction is 95% complete. The runway has been extended, and light-signal equipment is currently being installed. After launch, the airport will be able to receive flights both day and night, the press service of OJSC "Airports of Kyrgyzstan" reported.
"In mid-August, the first technical international flight is planned at Karakol airport. At the same time, negotiations with airlines on opening regular international flights are ongoing," the press service added.
After the airport's launch, the competitiveness of the Karakol ski resort for foreigners will significantly increase. Currently, from the nearest airport in Bishkek, one must travel about 400 km. From Karakol, the resort is only 7 km away, meaning outdoor enthusiasts will have the opportunity to fly in for weekends.
Additionally, from Karakol, one can reach the least crowded coast of Lake Issyk-Kul in summer.
Until 2025, the airport only received domestic flights from Bishkek and Osh. During reconstruction, the runway was extended and widened. Now, aircraft of the Airbus A320, A321, and Boeing 767 classes from other countries will be able to land here.
Earlier, Kursiv LifeStyle reported on why the cost of skiing at Shymbulak in Almaty is the same for foreigners and locals.