Airbus weighs opening service center in Kazakhstan

Airbus, a well-known European aircraft manufacturer, is weighing its expansion in Central Asia as First Deputy Prime Minister of Kazakhstan Roman Sklyar discussed the possibility of establishing an aircraft maintenance center in Kazakhstan with Airbus President for the Europe Region Johan Pelissier on July 29.

The parties discussed prospects for expanding mutual cooperation and implementing new joint projects in the aviation sector. During the meeting, Sklyar highlighted the government’s focus on developing the aviation industry, including fleet modernization. Particular attention was given to the initiative to establish a maintenance facility for both civil and state aircraft.

The official thanked Airbus representatives for contributing to the development of bilateral cooperation. He also instructed relevant agencies and organizations in Kazakhstan to review the company’s proposals and submit specific plans for the implementing joint aviation projects.

Two Kazakhstani air carriers — Air Astana and FlyArystan — operate Airbus aircraft, particularly the Airbus A321, A321neo, A321neo LR and A320ceo models. As of the end of September 2024, the two companies had a combined fleet of 52 Airbus aircraft.

On June 4, Air Astana completed the registration of its subsidiary, Air Astana Terminal Services, whose planned activities include providing ground handling services, according to a statement published on the Astana International Exchange. The initial focus will be on servicing the carrier’s own fleet, with future expansion to aircraft operated by other airlines.