Air Astana to launch Shanghai service, boosting Kazakhstan-China weekly flights to 84

:: Air Astana

The total number of scheduled flights between Kazakhstan and China is set to increase from 81 to 84 per week starting late March, according to Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Transport.

The expansion is driven by the launch of a new route by flag carrier Air Astana, which will commence regular service between Almaty and Shanghai Pudong from March 29. The airline will operate this route three times weekly utilizing its Airbus A321LR aircraft.

This new service strengthens Air Astana’s network in China, complementing its existing flights to Beijing, Guangzhou, Urumqi, and Sanya. The carrier emphasized that the connection between Almaty and the key Asian financial hub of Shanghai will facilitate increased business and tourism travel.

The move aligns with broader goals outlined by Kazakhstan’s transport authorities, which earlier this year announced plans to launch or resume a total of 15 international air routes in 2026.

CentralAsia+ Aero earlier reported: LCC FlyArystan to resume flights to Uzbekistan from Almaty.

CentralAsia+ Aero earlier reported: Air China expands Kazakhstan footprint with Chengdu-Almaty launch.