As Almaty, Kazakhstan’s largest city and economic hub, gears up for an exciting year in 2026, the region’s air travel options are expanding dramatically. Several new international flight routes will launch, strengthening connections between Almaty and key global destinations. From direct flights to Japan to expanded services in the Middle East and Europe, the city’s growing aviation network will make it even easier for travelers to explore Central Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and beyond.
Here’s a detailed look at the new flight routes launching to and from Almaty in 2026.
Direct Flights to Japan: Almaty Tokyo by Air Astana
One of the most anticipated routes in 2026 is the introduction of a direct flight between Almaty and Tokyo, Japan. This service will be operated by Air Astana, Kazakhstan’s flagship carrier, and is set to begin in March 2026. The direct route will cater to both business and tourism travelers, offering a quick and efficient connection between the two major cities. Japan, a leading destination for both leisure and corporate travelers, will benefit from the increased accessibility provided by this new route. By cutting down travel time and eliminating layovers, this new connection will strengthen ties between Kazakhstan and Japan, particularly in trade, tourism, and cultural exchanges.
The Almaty Tokyo service will be a game-changer for Kazakhstan’s tourism industry, offering Japanese tourists easier access to Almaty’s stunning mountains and rich cultural heritage.
Almaty Warsaw: LOT Polish Airlines’ New Route
In addition to the Japan route, LOT Polish Airlines will also launch a new direct flight between Almaty and Warsaw, Poland. Set to begin operations on 31 May 2026, this flight will enhance connectivity between Kazakhstan and Europe, offering four weekly services in the summer months and three weekly flights during the winter. The new connection will operate using a Boeing 737 MAX 8, which is known for its fuel efficiency and passenger comfort. This is a crucial addition to the air routes linking Central Asia with Europe, as Poland is becoming an increasingly popular destination for both business and leisure travelers from Kazakhstan.
With LOT Polish Airlines’ entry into the Almaty market, travelers will have more convenient and direct access to Poland’s capital, Warsaw, as well as the wider European Union.
Middle East Connections: Almaty Amman by Royal Jordanian
Royal Jordanian Airlines will begin direct flights between Amman, Jordan, and Almaty in 2026. This route, once launched, will connect travelers from Central Asia to the Middle East, providing easy access to destinations like Amman, Jordan, and nearby regions like Egypt, Lebanon, and the Gulf States. The new service will not only cater to the growing Kazakh diaspora in the Middle East but will also encourage business and tourism flows between these two dynamic regions.
Given the historical and cultural significance of both Jordan and Kazakhstan, this direct flight will open up many exciting opportunities for tourism, trade, and even religious pilgrimages to the Middle East and Kazakhstan’s landmarks.
Etihad Airways to Almaty: New Abu Dhabi Almaty Service
In another exciting development, Etihad Airways, the UAE’s flagship carrier, is set to launch a direct route between Abu Dhabi and Almaty in June 2026. This flight will provide travelers with easy access to Almaty from the UAE, a key hub for global travel and business. The service will further promote Kazakhstan’s growing role as an economic partner in Central Asia and offer UAE residents more travel options to explore Almaty and its surroundings. The Abu Dhabi Almaty route also benefits those traveling to Kazakhstan for business ventures, international conferences, or leisure.
This route is part of Etihad Airways’ strategy to enhance its network by adding new destinations, with Almaty being a key addition to Central Asia for the airline.
Expanding Southeast Asia Connections: Almaty Bangkok by Thai AirAsia X
Thai AirAsia X, a popular low-cost carrier in Southeast Asia, has also made waves by launching a new direct service between Almaty and Bangkok (Don Mueang). This route, which began in December 2025, will continue throughout 2026, offering affordable travel options for those flying between Central Asia and Southeast Asia. Thai AirAsia X will operate this flight four times per week, making it easier for travelers to visit Thailand and other Southeast Asian destinations from Almaty.
Almaty’s Growing Aviation Network
These new routes are part of a broader trend of Almaty’s growing aviation network. With Kazakhstan’s strategic location at the crossroads of Asia and Europe, Almaty is quickly becoming a hub for both international travelers and businesspeople seeking to connect between these continents. The city’s expanding airport infrastructure and enhanced flight options will help improve the flow of tourists, increase trade, and open up new avenues for global business collaboration.
Conclusion: A Hub for Global Connectivity
The new flight routes to and from Almaty in 2026 are a testament to Kazakhstan’s growing role in global air travel. Whether it’s direct flights to Tokyo, Warsaw, or the Middle East, these new connections will make it easier for Kazakhstan to engage with the world while enhancing tourism and economic opportunities for local businesses. Almaty is poised to be a major player in Central Asia, and these new services are just the beginning of the city’s rise as a global aviation hub.
The post New Direct Flights to Almaty in 2026: From Tokyo to Warsaw, Amman to Abu Dhabi – Find Out Which Countries Are Getting More Access to Kazakhstan! appeared first on Travel And Tour World.
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