Air Astana plans direct Kazakhstan New York flights starting 2026

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Kazakhstan plans to launch direct flights to New York in 2026, the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) announced following a meeting on preparations for an upcoming ICAO aviation security audit.

The committee noted that the start of flights depends on the results of the ICAO audit, scheduled for Sept. 2-14. The findings will determine whether Kazakhstan can organize flights to the United States.

«Negative findings from the audit could hinder the country’s strategic goals to expand international air travel and strengthen Kazakhstan’s image as a reliable aviation partner,» the CAC said.

Air Astana is expected to operate the direct route. In March, the company’s CEO Peter Foster said he could not provide a launch date due to delays in aircraft deliveries and restrictions on flights over Russia. «Until these issues are resolved, there will be no direct flights to the U.S.,» Foster explained.

«We understand that people have been waiting for this for a long time. Kazakhstanis should have easier access to the American market,» he added.

Talks about a New York service have circulated for several years. Last year, Foster noted that at least two aircraft would be required to launch the route. The airline also plans to begin direct flights to Tokyo in spring 2026.