Kazakhstan's low-cost carrier FlyArystan has welcomed its 15 millionth passenger aboard flight KC7077 from Almaty to Kutaisi. Since commencing operations in May 2019, the airline has carried 15 million passengers, with almost 11 million of those being domestic travelers.
The airline, established as a social project to enhance aviation mobility for Kazakhstanis, has significantly contributed to the growth of passenger traffic within Kazakhstan. In the first half of 2024 alone, FlyArystan transported over 1.8 million passengers. More than 10% of all FlyArystan passengers were first-time flyers, making their inaugural flight experience with the airline. As the first airline in Central Asia to operate on the low-cost model, it has been a driving force in Kazakhstan's aviation industry, introducing and popularizing the principles of low-cost travel and fostering a new travel culture.
The airline, established as a social project to enhance aviation mobility for Kazakhstanis, has significantly contributed to the growth of passenger traffic within Kazakhstan. In the first half of 2024 alone, FlyArystan transported over 1.8 million passengers. More than 10% of all FlyArystan passengers were first-time flyers, making their inaugural flight experience with the airline. As the first airline in Central Asia to operate on the low-cost model, it has been a driving force in Kazakhstan's aviation industry, introducing and popularizing the principles of low-cost travel and fostering a new travel culture.
Richard Ledger, President of FlyArystan:
"We are delighted to welcome our 15 millionth passenger, a milestone that underscores our commitment to making travel affordable and enhancing connectivity between regions in Kazakhstan and neighboring countries. During the peak summer season, FlyArystan operated over 7,000 flights, the majority of which were to domestic destinations. In the second quarter of 2024 alone, the number of passengers transported nearly reached one million. As we look forward to new challenges, achievements, and routes, we remain dedicated to prioritizing flight safety and innovation."
FlyArystan's investment in enhancing the travel experience and moving away from traditional approaches has significantly impacted passenger growth. In 2022, the airline introduced iJan self-service terminals, allowing passengers to check in and check baggage themselves. These terminals are now available in 14 cities across Kazakhstan, significantly reducing airport wait times. Additionally, online check-in is growing in popularity, with 2.4 million passengers completing free online check-in via the mobile app or website. FlyArystan's platforms have become some of the largest online sales platforms in Kazakhstan. This year, the airline continued to introduce innovative solutions, including the region's first Baggage Drop-off (BagJan) technology at Almaty International Airport.
The airline's 15 millionth passenger was 59-year-old Marat Tatibayev from Atyrau, who was flying to Borjomi on holiday with his wife, Tynyshtyk. The couple received gifts from the airline, including a certificate for a free flight to any destination served by the Kazakhstani low-cost carrier. The airline carried its first million passengers in 2020, just a year after beginning operations. By December 2021, passenger traffic had reached 5 million, and by May 2023, it had grown to 10 million, illustrating the exponential growth in demand for air travel. Notably, FlyArystan's expansion is self-funded, with no government subsidies; the airline covers all flight costs independently.
FlyArystan operates flights across an extensive route network using a modern fleet of Airbus A320 aircraft, with bases in Almaty, Astana, Atyrau, Aktau, and Shymkent. The carrier’s network includes 14 domestic routes within Kazakhstan and international routes to Turkey, Georgia, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, and China.
2024 has been a significant year for FlyArystan in other respects. Earlier this year, FlyArystan became a 100% subsidiary of Air Astana JSC and received its own Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the Aviation Administration of Kazakhstan, confirming compliance with both Kazakhstani aviation legislation and international operational standards. For the second consecutive year, FlyArystan was recognized by Skytrax as the Best Low-Cost Carrier in Central Asia and the CIS.
The airline's 15 millionth passenger was 59-year-old Marat Tatibayev from Atyrau, who was flying to Borjomi on holiday with his wife, Tynyshtyk. The couple received gifts from the airline, including a certificate for a free flight to any destination served by the Kazakhstani low-cost carrier. The airline carried its first million passengers in 2020, just a year after beginning operations. By December 2021, passenger traffic had reached 5 million, and by May 2023, it had grown to 10 million, illustrating the exponential growth in demand for air travel. Notably, FlyArystan's expansion is self-funded, with no government subsidies; the airline covers all flight costs independently.
FlyArystan operates flights across an extensive route network using a modern fleet of Airbus A320 aircraft, with bases in Almaty, Astana, Atyrau, Aktau, and Shymkent. The carrier’s network includes 14 domestic routes within Kazakhstan and international routes to Turkey, Georgia, Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, and China.
2024 has been a significant year for FlyArystan in other respects. Earlier this year, FlyArystan became a 100% subsidiary of Air Astana JSC and received its own Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the Aviation Administration of Kazakhstan, confirming compliance with both Kazakhstani aviation legislation and international operational standards. For the second consecutive year, FlyArystan was recognized by Skytrax as the Best Low-Cost Carrier in Central Asia and the CIS.