Air Astana, FlyArystan, and SCAT Launch Over 150 Additional Flights for Spring Holidays

In anticipation of the upcoming long weekend for the Nauryz celebrations, the Ministry of Transport of Kazakhstan has initiated the launch of additional domestic flights to meet the surge in public demand.

As March 21 and 22 fall on a weekend in 2026, the public holidays have been shifted to March 24 and 25 in accordance with the labor calendar. Consequently, Kazakhstanis will enjoy a five-day holiday period from March 21 to March 25 inclusive.

To manage the influx of passengers, the country’s leading carriers have adjusted their schedules:

• Air Astana Group (including FlyArystan): Between March 16 and March 29, the airlines will operate 146 additional flights. The primary focus is on the nation's busiest route - Astana to Almaty (80 flights). Flight frequencies have also been increased from major hubs and Aktau to cities including Aktobe, Shymkent, Turkistan, Semey, and Ust-Kamenogorsk, among other regional centers.

• SCAT Airlines: The carrier has prepared two "waves" of extra departures. The first will run from March 19 to 21, covering routes from Almaty, Shymkent, and Aktau to the capital. The second wave is scheduled for the return period from March 23 to 26.

The Ministry of Transport strongly advises citizens not to delay ticket purchases. Given the peak season and the five-day holiday stretch, seat availability may be exhausted well in advance of the festivities. Passengers can track real-time schedules and ticket availability via the official websites and mobile applications of the respective airlines.