Air Astana Group announced that FlyArystan its wholly-owned low-cost carrier headquartered in Almaty, has been granted its Air Operator Certificate (AOC) from the Aviation Administration of Kazakhstan (AAK). The carrier operates 19 Airbus A320ceo/neo aircraft under Irish registry under ICAO ‘Article 83 bis’ agreement between Ireland and Kazakhstan.

Air Astana Group CEO Peter Foster, said “The Air Astana Group comprises two differentiated and complementary airline brands. Since its launch five years ago, FlyArystan has grown into the market leader in Kazakhstan while stimulating the market, providing 3.6 million passengers with low-cost air travel in 2023 and expanding the fleet from four to 18 aircraft, with a further six to be delivered in 2024. This makes it the right time for FlyArystan to obtain its own operator certificate, reflecting the increased size and operational complexity of the airline. It provides the regulatory framework for FlyArystan to continue to grow while pursuing opportunities for international expansion.”

The AOC issued on 1 April 2024 follows an extensive audit and examination process by the AAK and demonstrates FlyArystan’s adherence to both domestic aviation legislation and international operational standards. Under its own AOC, FlyArystan will be able to align operations more effectively with its low-cost carrier model and pursue additional growth opportunities. It also enables FlyArystan to receive its own IATA code which will allow it to expand distribution globally and to partner with other airlines.

Image Credit: Aviation Capital Group

Irish Aviation Research Institute © 11 April 2024 All Rights Reserved