Astana airport to be transformed into 'a city within a city'
Tengrinews.kz - A large-scale transformation of Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport and its surrounding area is planned in the capital of Kazakhstan.
According to the Ministry of Transport, under a long-term investment agreement between the ministry and Terminals Astana Airport Limited (part of Terminals Holding, UAE), $1.1 billion will be invested into the modernization of the airport and the development of an innovative infrastructure complex known as an aerotropolis.
What is an aerotropolis, and why does Astana need one?
As explained by the ministry, an aerotropolis is a multifunctional complex that integrates an airport with logistics and industrial zones, hotels, retail and office centers, and business clusters.
Such infrastructure solutions typically enhance regional connectivity and create thousands of jobs.
In late January, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev ordered the urgent development of an international air hub in Kazakhstan. The Ministry of Transport later announced plans to develop air hubs at six airports across the country, including Astana’s.
What does the modernization project include?
As part of the agreement, the first stage of the project will include the construction of a second runway, a third passenger terminal, and a modern cargo terminal.
“The investor will upgrade the airport’s special equipment fleet, implement digital solutions and automation systems, and carry out phased training and professional development of airport personnel. All staff will undergo certified training that meets international aviation standards,” the Ministry of Transport said in a statement.
On May 12, following talks between President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev and the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, a signing ceremony was held for a number of bilateral documents. Among the agreements was a deal between Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Transport and Terminals Astana Airport Limited on investment in the development of Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport in Astana and its surrounding area.