Almaty Airport

Almaty International Airport (ALA): Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Comprehensive Travel Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Almaty International Airport (IATA: ALA) is Kazakhstan’s primary air gateway and the busiest airport in Central Asia. Located about 15 kilometers northeast of Almaty’s city center, it connects Kazakhstan with over 26 countries and serves millions of passengers each year. Since its establishment in 1935, the airport has evolved through several modernization phases, most notably with the opening of a new international terminal in 2024. This guide provides detailed information on visiting hours, ticketing, facilities, transportation, and travel tips to ensure a smooth journey through Almaty International Airport.

For the latest updates and official details, consult resources such as airport-technology.com and flyairports.com.

Quick Facts

Location: 15 km northeast of Almaty city center
Operating Hours: 24/7; most services available from 05:00 to 23:00
Terminals: New International Terminal (Terminal 2), Domestic Terminal (Terminal 1), VIP Terminal
Capacity: Up to 14 million passengers annually
Main Carriers: Air Astana, SCAT, Qazaq Air, Fly Arystan; over 30 international airlines
Annual Traffic: Handled over 9 million passengers in 2023; projected 11+ million by 2025

History and Recent Developments

Founded in 1935, Almaty International Airport has grown from a small airfield into a modern aviation hub. Major upgrades, especially the 2024 opening of Terminal 2, have doubled passenger capacity and improved facilities to align with international standards (airport-technology.com). The airport’s growth reflects Kazakhstan’s increasing role as a regional connector, with enhanced cargo and passenger services and a commitment to sustainability.

Visiting Hours and Ticketing

Airport Operating Hours: Open 24/7.
Passenger Services: Most check-in counters, shops, and lounges operate from 05:00 to 23:00 daily.
Flight Tickets: Book via airline websites, authorized agents, or at airport ticket counters.
Shuttle Tickets: Purchase onboard or at kiosks near arrival areas.

Flights and Airlines

Almaty International Airport offers extensive connectivity:

Domestic: Flights to 19 cities across Kazakhstan
International: Direct flights to 26 countries, including Istanbul, Dubai, Frankfurt, Seoul, Beijing, Moscow, London, and Bangkok
Flag Carrier: Air Astana operates over half of all flights, complemented by other Kazakh and international airlines

Terminal Infrastructure

Terminal 1: Domestic Flights

Built in 1973 and renovated after 1999, Terminal 1 handles all domestic flights. It features modern amenities across two levels and is connected to Terminal 2 for easy transfers.

Terminal 2: International Flights

Opened in June 2024, Terminal 2 has expanded the airport’s capacity, offering larger check-in zones, improved security, lounges, and international retail and dining options.

VIP Terminal

The original historic VIP terminal is under reconstruction; a VIP lounge is available in the departures area for premium travelers.

Passenger Facilities and Services

Free Wi-Fi throughout airport terminals
Business and VIP Lounges
Medical Assistance and pharmacies
Prayer Rooms
Mother and Child Rooms
Left-Luggage Storage, baggage wrapping, and lost & found
ATMs and Currency Exchange
Duty-Free and Retail Shopping
Dining Options: From local cafes to international restaurants
Accessibility: Wheelchair assistance, ramps, accessible restrooms, and reserved parking (flyairports.com)

Transportation to and from the Airport

Taxi: Official airport taxis operate 24/7 with fixed rates.
Public Bus: Efficient bus and shuttle connections to city center and suburbs.
Car Rental: Major international and local agencies operate at the airport.
Travel Time: Approximately 30–40 minutes to downtown Almaty, depending on traffic.

Travel Tips

Arrival: Arrive 2–3 hours before international departures, 1.5–2 hours for domestic.
Self-Service: Use airport kiosks and mobile apps for check-in.
Documents: Ensure travel documents and visas are up-to-date.
Customs: Familiarize yourself with Kazakhstan’s entry requirements.
Language: Most signage is in Kazakh, Russian, and English.

Nearby Attractions

Trans-Ili Alatau Mountains: A gateway to hiking and winter sports
Panfilov Park & Zenkov (Ascension) Cathedral: Almaty’s cultural heart
Shymbulak Ski Resort & Medeu Ice Rink: Outdoor activities within easy reach
Green Bazaar & Central State Museum: Experience local culture and cuisine

Visa-free entry is available for citizens of 78 countries as of 2025, and e-visas are also accepted (xplrverse.com).

Sustainability & Strategic Importance

Almaty International Airport is Central Asia’s first to achieve EDGE Advanced certification for sustainable, energy-efficient design (airport-technology.com). Its role as a major logistics hub is reinforced by partnerships with global organizations and ongoing infrastructure investments supported by international financing (trade.gov).

Summary Table: Key Metrics

Metric	Value (Latest)	Source
Annual Passengers (2019)	6.4 million	trade.gov
Annual Cargo Volume (2019)	69,000+ tons	trade.gov
International Financing	$372.2 million (IFC+EBRD)	trade.gov
Visa-Free Countries (2025)	78	xplrverse.com
Distance to City Center	~15 km	xplrverse.com

FAQs

Q: What are Almaty International Airport’s visiting hours?
A: The airport operates 24/7; most passenger services are available from 05:00 to 23:00.

Q: How can I travel between the airport and Almaty city center?
A: Taxis, public buses, shuttle services, and car rentals are available; travel time is roughly 30–40 minutes.

Q: Which airlines operate at Almaty Airport?
A: Air Astana, SCAT, Qazaq Air, Fly Arystan, and over 30 international airlines.

Q: Are there facilities for passengers with disabilities?
A: Yes, including wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and dedicated staff support.

Q: Is free Wi-Fi available?
A: Yes, throughout all terminals.

Nearby Landmark Highlight: Ascension (Zenkov) Cathedral

Overview

Located in Panfilov Park, the Ascension Cathedral (Zenkov Cathedral) is a must-see for visitors to Almaty. Built between 1904 and 1907 entirely without nails, it is one of the world’s tallest wooden buildings and survived the 1911 earthquake.

Visiting Information

Hours: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM daily (last entry 30 minutes before closing)
Admission: Free; donations welcomed
Tours: Guided tours in Russian and English available on-site or via local operators
Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible; modest dress required

Travel Tips

Photography is permitted inside without flash or tripods.
Public transport and taxis are the most convenient ways to reach the cathedral from the airport.

Attractions Nearby

Panfilov Park, Museum of Folk Musical Instruments, Green Bazaar, and numerous city landmarks.

Conclusion

Almaty International Airport offers a blend of rich historical heritage and advanced modern amenities, making it an ideal starting point for exploring Kazakhstan and Central Asia. Its robust connectivity, passenger services, and commitment to sustainability ensure a welcoming, efficient experience for travelers. Coupled with proximity to cultural and natural attractions, the airport is an excellent gateway for both business and leisure trips.

For real-time updates, airport maps, and tailored travel tips, download the Audiala app or visit the official airport website. Stay connected through social media and travel platforms for the latest news and offers.