TravTalk India Online Magazine
FlyArystan, a low-cost carrier under Air Astana Group, launched its first flight between India and Kazakhstan on 22 May 2023, offering affordable air fare, beginning US$55. Indian travellers can now explore Kazakhstan visa-free for up to 14 days and visit Shymkent.
Janice Alysious
On May 22, 2023, FlyArystan, the low-cost carrier under the Air Astana Group, successfully operated its first flight between India and Kazakhstan. The Airbus A320 aircraft embarked on its maiden journey, flying the Delhi-Shymkent route.
The airline offers a minimum cost between two major metropolitans starts from US$55 for a one-way flight. To facilitate seamless travel, tickets on this route can be conveniently booked through the FlyArystan mobile app or the flyarystan.com website until October 2023. The minimum ticket cost includes a system-assigned seat and a single piece of hand baggage weighing up to 5 kg, with dimensions of 56x23x36 cm. Passengers can also opt for the ‘Comfort’ and ‘Comfort Plus’ flight packages during online booking, which offer tickets with additional baggage (up to 20 kg) at a 60 per cent discount compared to separate selection or check-in counter purchases.
As per new regulations, Indian citizens traveling for business, private, and tourism purposes can enter Kazakhstan without a visa for up to 14 days from the moment of crossing the border. This option enhances the accessibility for Indian travellers to explore the Shymkent, located, a three-hour flight from Delhi. Shymkent’s popularity has been on the rise among tourists, with its proximity to Turkestan, the spiritual and historical center of Central Asia.
Pom Komutanont, Senior Director, Operations, FlyArystan, said, “Since the cancellation of the visa regime for Indian citizens entering Kazakhstan, the flow of tourists has increased substantially. Therefore, we have decided to pursue to provide affordable, convenient, and high-quality air transportation options, while taking in the passengers to travel between countries.” She emphasized that Kazakhstan’s natural beauty, wide range of outdoor activities, and renowned hospitality have made it a popular destination among Indians. With a focus on education and attracting global students, Indian travellers exploring educational, or business opportunities can find various avenues in the country”.
By this year-end, FlyArystan aims to expand its fleet to 19 aircraft, including new additions. The airline achieved a landmark in 2022 when it received a high 4-star rating from the Skytrax quality audit, thereby becoming one of the 12 low-cost carriers worldwide to receive such recognition. Over the next four years, FlyArystan ferried 10 million passengers, establishing links Kazakhstan and Georgia, Armenia, Türkiye, Azerbaijan, the UAE.
