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    Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport

    Kazakhstan's second-busiest airport, serving as the primary gateway to the nation's capital and northern region.

    IATA Code:NQZ
    Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport logo
    US Airport Illustration
    Watch Tower

    Overview of the Airport

    Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport (NQZ) is located 10 miles south of central Astana. It serves as the main international and domestic hub for northern Kazakhstan, connecting the capital to major cities across Eurasia. The airport features two modern terminals and supports over 200 daily departures.

    51.022202, 71.466904

    8.3M
    Passenger Traffic
    38.5K
    Cargo Throughput

    Growth Trend

    Passenger traffic increased by 10.7% year-over-year, setting a new record in 2024.

    Passenger Growth ChartPassenger Growth ChartPassenger Growth ChartPassenger Growth Chart

    Employment

    5,200

    Staff includes airline employees, ground handlers, security, concessions, and airport operations personnel.

    Airport Asset

    Global Ranking

    Second-busiest airport in Kazakhstan and Central Asia's second-largest international gateway by passenger traffic.
    78.2K
    Aircraft Movements

    Market Share of Major Airlines

    Capacity Expansion

    Terminal expansions have raised annual capacity to 8.9 million passengers, with further upgrades planned to support future growth.

    Capacity Expansion

    Technological Advancements

    Deployment of e-gates, biometric screening, and digital wayfinding enhances passenger processing and operational efficiency.

    Technological Advancements

    Sustainability Initiatives

    Implementation of energy-efficient terminal systems and a transition to electric ground vehicles support Kazakhstan's green aviation goals.

    Sustainability Initiatives

    Recommendations

    Policy Alignment

    Coordinate with national authorities to secure funding for infrastructure and align with evolving international aviation standards.

    Infrastructure Investment

    Prioritize runway and terminal modernization to accommodate rising passenger and cargo volumes and improve resilience.

    Sustainability Focus

    Accelerate adoption of renewable energy and sustainable aviation fuels to meet environmental targets and regulatory requirements.