Shymkent, Kazakhstan,23rd July 2025: Central Asia is rapidly solidifying its role as a key hub for regional and intercontinental air traffic. Shymkent International Airport (IATA: CIT) is entering a new era with the launch of Terminal A—a modern passenger facility designed to support large-scale aviation growth and expand air connectivity across the region. Why Shymkent? A Strategic Location for Regional and Intercontinental Hubs Located in Kazakhstan’s third-largest city, Shymkent sits at the crossroads of major transport and trade corridors—from the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR) to the China–Europe rail networks. This makes the airport a prime location for both passenger and cargo operations. With a population of over 1.2 million, a dynamic business environment, and strong growth in domestic and international tourism, Shymkent is increasingly viewed as the southern air gateway of Kazakhstan, attracting airlines, logistics companies, and investors. Terminal A: Operational Today, Built for Tomorrow Opened in late 2024, Terminal A meets the highest standards of a modern airport infrastructure: • Passenger Capacity: 2 million annually, expandable to 5 million • Smart Baggage Handling System (BHS): Automated sorting lines, real-time tracking, and airline integration • Security: Predictive screening, biometric passenger ID, integration with government databases • Passenger Services: Dedicated CIP and VIP lounges, fast-track control and passport clearance • Navigation & Comfort: Multilingual digital wayfinding (Kazakh, Russian, English, Chinese), accessible via mobile app • Technology: Self check-in and bag-drop kiosks, high-speed Wi-Fi, universal charging stations • Sustainability: Energy-efficient lighting, heat recovery systems, eco-certified materials, and rooftop solar panels. Expanding Route Network: A Growing Map of Connectivity Shymkent International Airport is already linked to key destinations across the region and beyond. In 2025, the route network continues to expand: • Central Asia & Domestic Kazakhstan: ▪ Tashkent, Bishkek, Dushanbe, Almaty, Astana, Aktau, Atyrau • Middle East & Gulf Region: ▪ Dubai (FlyDubai, SCAT), Doha (Qatar Airways), Sharjah (Air Arabia) • Europe & Turkey: ▪ Istanbul (Turkish Airlines, Pegasus), Ankara, Warsaw, Frankfurt • Russia & CIS: ▪ Moscow (Aeroflot, Red Wings, SCAT), St. Petersburg, Kazan, Yekaterinburg, Novosibirsk • Asia: ▪ Beijing, Urumqi, Xi’an, Mumbai (in development), Bangkok • Southeast Asia & South Korea (under negotiation): ▪ Seoul, Kuala Lumpur, Ho Chi Minh City, Manila Airlines Already Operating at Shymkent: • SCAT Airlines (based at CIT) • Air Astana • FlyArystan • Qazaq Air • Turkish Airlines • FlyDubai • Red Wings • Pegasus Airlines • Qatar Airways • Uzbekistan Airways • Air Arabia — with more to come Incentives for Airline Partners: A Strategic Market Entry In cooperation with government agencies, the airport operator offers compelling incentives for launching new routes: • Discounted airport fees for new destinations • Joint marketing and promotional support • Flexible and protected slot allocation • Overnight parking and efficient ground handling availability • Assistance with opening local offices and representation Cargo Opportunities: A Logistics Hub Ready for Growth Southern Kazakhstan is a major industrial and agricultural region with strong export potential. Shymkent’s proximity to logistics zones makes it an ideal location for a cargo terminal, included in the airport’s long-term master plan. • Planned development of a modern air cargo hub with cold-chain and veterinary infrastructure • Simplified customs and cargo handling procedures • Free economic zone located within close proximity to the airport Join a Rapidly Growing Aviation Hub The launch of Terminal A is more than just an infrastructure upgrade—it’s a strategic initiative aimed at integrating Central Asia into the global aviation network.