National Airlines adds Aktobe to Kazakhstan refueling network

U.S.-based National Airlines has added Aktobe to its network in Kazakhstan. On Oct. 20, the carrier’s Boeing 747-400F freighter operating on the Kuala Lumpur-Aktobe-Jakarta route was refueled for the first time at Aktobe International Airport, the Aktobe region administration reported.

The refueling was carried out by KazMunayGas-Aero, a KazMunayGas subsidiary. The company had previously signed an agreement with National Airlines to provide into-plane refueling services.

The first flight under the agreement was handled on Oct. 16 at Turkestan International Airport. The Boeing 777 freighter was operating on the Hong Kong-Turkestan-Amsterdam route.

With Aktobe included, the agreement covers six airports in Kazakhstan, located in Astana, Almaty, Karaganda, Shymkent, Turkestan and Aktobe. According to the statement, working with a single fuel supplier simplifies refueling arrangements for international flights.

The regional administration noted that expanding the international cargo network will strengthen Aktobe International Airport’s transit potential and help integrate western Kazakhstan into international logistics routes. The initiative is part of efforts to implement President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev’s instructions to develop the country’s transport and logistics potential and strengthen its position as a Eurasian aviation hub.

KazMunayGas-Aero continues to expand its cooperation with international carriers. The company currently provides services to around 50 foreign airlines.

Based in Orlando, Florida, National Airlines specializes in charter cargo and passenger flights. The company also transports commercial, oversized and specialized cargo. Its fleet includes Boeing 747 and 777 freighters.