The European Union and the Republic of Kazakhstan have signed a Horizontal Aviation Agreement designed to expand air connectivity, promote fair competition and create new opportunities for airlines, passengers and businesses.
The agreement allows any eligible European Union airline to operate flights between Kazakhstan and any of the 17 EU member states that currently do not have bilateral air services agreements permitting such operations. It replaces existing nationality clauses that previously restricted services to airlines owned or controlled by nationals of the respective EU member state or Kazakhstan.
Greater Market Access for EU Airlines
By removing ownership and nationality restrictions, the agreement gives all eligible EU carriers equal access to the Kazakhstan market. The European Commission said the new framework will encourage open and fair competition while providing greater legal certainty for airlines operating between the two markets.
The agreement is also expected to improve connectivity, creating additional travel options for passengers and strengthening commercial links between Kazakhstan and the European Union.
Strengthening Aviation Cooperation
Apostolos Tzitzikostas, European Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism, welcomed the signing, describing it as an important step in strengthening cooperation between the European Union and Kazakhstan.
“I warmly congratulate Kazakhstan on the signing of this agreement with the European Union. This milestone reflects our shared commitment to strengthening cooperation, enhancing connectivity between our regions, and bringing our people and economies closer together,” he said.
He added that expanding opportunities for air services would support economic growth, investment and exchanges between the two partners while laying the foundation for closer aviation cooperation in the future.
Agreement to Enter Into Force After Ratification
The European Union and Kazakhstan will now complete their respective internal approval procedures before the agreement formally enters into force. Once implemented, the framework will provide a harmonised legal basis for air services between Kazakhstan and the participating EU member states, supporting the continued expansion of international air transport between Europe and Central Asia.
