≡-New Era Of Aviation Takes Flight As Kazakhstan Breaks Ground On Katon-Karagay And Zaisan Airports, Unlocking Gateway To Scenic East Kazakhstan – Viral of Today

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Home » Kazakhstan Travel News » New Era Of Aviation Takes Flight As Kazakhstan Breaks Ground On Katon-Karagay And Zaisan Airports, Unlocking Gateway To Scenic East Kazakhstan Monday, July 14, 2025Kazakhstan has launched the construction of two new airports in Katon Karagay and Zaisan to address limited regional accessibility boost tourism and drive economic growth By improving air connectivity to these remote yet scenic areas the country aims to unlock their full tourism potential reduce travel times and create hundreds of new local jobssupporting its broader vision for sustainable regional developmentKazakhstan is rapidly expanding its aviation infrastructure with the construction of two brand-new airports in the East Kazakhstan Region, aiming to improve regional connectivity, boost tourism, and stimulate local economic development. Strategically located in Katon-Karagay and Zaisan, these airports are being built to address long-standing accessibility challenges and unlock the vast tourism potential of some of the country’s most scenic and ecologically rich destinations.Kazakhstan has officially begun building two brand-new airports from scratch in the East Kazakhstan Region, with construction sites located in the Katon-Karagay and Zaisan districts.Kazakhstan Breaks Ground on Two New Airports to Boost Regional Connectivity and Eco-TourismKazakhstan has initiated the development of two entirely new airports in the East Kazakhstan Region, with construction underway in the Katon-Karagay and Zaisan districts. These strategic projects, overseen by the Ministry of Transport, aim to enhance interregional connectivity, stimulate local economies, and promote sustainable tourism throughout the area, according to a report by Kazinform on July 13.The Zaisan airport is being developed on the grounds of a former military airbase, which allows for faster progress due to the site’s pre-existing infrastructure and convenient transport links. Meanwhile, Katon-Karagay’s location was carefully chosen for its favorable weather patterns, including wind conditions, and its closeness to prominent tourist routes. This marks a historic first for Kazakhstan, as these are the country’s only airports being constructed entirely from scratch in locations that previously lacked any aviation facilities.These two airports are part of four key civil aviation initiatives currently being prioritized at the national level. In addition to the airport developments in East Kazakhstan, Kazakhstan’s government is moving forward with the construction of a completely new airport in Kenderli, situated in the Mangystau Region, while also undertaking the modernization of the existing airport in Arkalyk within the Kostanai Region. The total funding dedicated to constructing the three new airports in prominent resort areas stands at 117 billion tenge (approximately US$223.9 million).Katon-Karagay: A Gateway to Kazakhstan’s Natural BeautyRenowned for its untouched landscapes and ecological richness, Katon-Karagay attracts as many as 100,000 domestic and international travelers annually. Currently, accessing the region requires a lengthy six- to seven-hour drive from Ust-Kamenogorsk, but the construction of the new airport is set to dramatically cut travel time and open up the region to greater tourism.The airport is being built near the Ust-Kamenogorsk–Altai–Rakhmanovskie Klyuchi highway and is close to several high-traffic tourist sites. To support the facility, contractors are simultaneously developing critical infrastructure, including power supply lines and a 5-kilometer bypass road designed to streamline access.During the current tourism season, the district is witnessing a notable rise in visitors, many of whom are arriving for the seasonal harvest of maral antlers, prized for their healing qualities. Others are drawn by the region’s serene radon lakes, mountain air, wild landscapes, and Altai honey—a signature local product. Despite current transportation limitations, tourist interest continues to grow, underscoring the region’s potential and the necessity for upgraded travel infrastructure.Once operational, the Katon-Karagay airport is expected to increase tourist arrivals by two to three times, significantly improving regional mobility. This surge in access is also projected to generate jobs and drive growth in tourism-related sectors such as hotels, recreation services, transportation, and retail.Initial Routes and Aircraft PlansBoth the Katon-Karagay and Zaisan airports will initially operate domestic flights, providing direct connections to key cities such as Ust-Kamenogorsk, Almaty, and Astana. As development progresses, the launch of international flights is also being considered.The airports will accommodate regional aircraft models like the Bombardier Q400, ATR-72, and CRJ. Government-subsidized fares for these routes are anticipated to range between 15,000 and 18,000 tenge (approximately US$28 to US$34), making air travel more affordable for both locals and visitors.The concurrent construction of the two airports is viewed as a vital step toward strengthening regional development and advancing Kazakhstan’s national aviation infrastructure. This initiative plays a key role in supporting economic diversification while reinforcing the country’s long-term strategy to grow its tourism sector and enhance connectivity to remote yet breathtaking natural areas.The two airports under development in the East Kazakhstan Region are expected to become operational by the end of the year. During the initial phase, the projects will generate over 600 new employment opportunities for the local population.

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