Kazakhstan’s Air Astana to buy up to 50 Airbus A320neos

Image: Airbus

Air Astana Group, Kazakhstan’s largest airline grouping (comprises flag carrier Air Astana and LCC FlyArystan) has committed to a major fleet modernization by signing a Memorandum of Understanding for up to 50 Airbus A320neo family aircraft.

Once firmed, this would be the largest ever order placed by the airline, comprising of 25 firm aircraft and 25 purchase options.

The agreement includes a mix of Airbus A320neo and A321neo aircraft, with the first deliveries expected to start in 2031.

The majority of the aircraft will be allocated to the A321LR, a long-range version of the narrowbody of which Air Astana was one of the first airlines to install a deluxe configuration, for deployment on its long-haul services to Asia and Europe.

This order complements the commitment for Boeing 787 widebody aircraft announced earlier this month and is subject to shareholder approval.

Air Astana began operating Airbus aircraft – an A320ceo – in 2006. The first new-generation A320neo family aircraft entered service in 2016, with the first A321LR arrived in 2019.

Air Astana’s group fleet currently consists of 62 aircraft, including 59 Airbus A320 family aircraft. These aircraft are used by both Air Astana and FlyArystan.

Air Astana’s large order for a new fleet of Airbus A320neo family aircraft reflects a commitment to maintaining its reputation for operational efficiency and service excellence in the long term, said Peter Foster, CEO of Air Astana.

CentralAsia+ Aero earlier reported: Air Astana Group reports financial impact amid escalating PW1100G technical challenges.