Nurlan Zhakupov, Chairman of the Management Board of Samruk-Kazyna JSC, met with Johan Pelissier, President of the Europe Region for Airbus.

The parties discussed their strategic partnership in civil aviation, including the long-standing cooperation between Airbus and Air Astana. Air Astana has been operating Airbus aircraft since 2006 and remains the only airline in Kazakhstan to operate this aircraft family on a regular basis.

Particular attention was given to the airline’s fleet development and long-term plans, including the expansion of its Airbus A320neo Family fleet, previously signed contracts for new aircraft with deliveries scheduled through 2031, and strengthening Kazakhstan’s position as an aviation hub connecting Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

The parties also discussed the further development of Air Astana’s technical infrastructure and the capabilities of the airline’s Technical Centre. Looking ahead, the centre is expected to develop into a regional hub for aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) services in Central Asia.

Airbus SE is Europe’s largest aerospace corporation and one of the world’s leading companies in commercial aircraft manufacturing, helicopter production, space technologies, and the defence industry. The company holds a leading position in the global commercial aircraft market in terms of orders and deliveries and plays a key role in advancing the global aviation industry.