Cathay Pacific Announces Plans for New Service to Almaty, Kazakhstan

Cathay Pacific will launch direct flights to Almaty, the commercial and cultural heart of Kazakhstan, in the first quarter of 2027.

This service, the only direct route connecting Hong Kong and Kazakhstan, is planned to operate three times a week using an Airbus A330-300 aircraft.

Kazakhstan boasts the largest economy in Central Asia, with key industries including manufacturing, mining, and industrial production. It is also Hong Kong's largest trading partner in Central Asia and its biggest export market in the region.

In recent years, demand for passenger and cargo traffic between Central Asia and Mainland China has been steadily increasing, driven by expanding trade, investment, and projects related to the 'Belt and Road' initiative. Additionally, Kazakhstan's tourism industry continues to grow, offering a variety of outdoor activities in both summer and winter, and it is set to host the Asian Winter Games in 2029.

Cathay is committed to strengthening its network connecting Hong Kong, Mainland China, and the world, contributing to the city's status as a leading international aviation hub.

Currently, Cathay Pacific and HK Express operate approximately 600 round-trip flights per week to 33 cities along the 'Belt and Road.' The group as a whole operates more than 330 round-trip flights per week on routes connecting Hong Kong with 24 cities in Mainland China.

Lavinia Lau, Cathay's Chief Customer and Commercial Officer, commented: "Central Asia is a key region with many business opportunities, and as a Hong Kong-based airline, Cathay is committed to strengthening our network with this emerging market. Last year, we launched direct flights to Urumqi in northwestern China. The launch of this service to a city close to Central Asia further expanded our network not only to Mainland China but also to major cities along the 'Belt and Road.' As we celebrate Cathay's 80th anniversary this year, we are delighted to build on that momentum and announce the launch of direct flights to Almaty, our first destination in Central Asia. Through this route, we will promote the flow of people, cargo, and capital, creating new opportunities for exchange and growth with this vibrant region."