Regular passenger services on local air routes in Aktobe Region have not operated since 2011. The region is now moving to restore infrastructure for the development of small aviation.
Following a competitive selection, SK Best Spec Stroy KZ LLP was chosen as the contractor for the airfield reconstruction. Design work is expected to take five months and construction and installation work six months. These estimates do not include the state expert review.
The airfield is located about seven kilometres from Shalkar. The project calls for strengthening the existing 1,200-metre asphalt-concrete runway, reconstructing the apron and taxiway, building a perimeter fence, and installing a modular passenger pavilion and necessary equipment.
After reconstruction, the airfield is expected to be prepared to receive L-410 aircraft with capacity for up to 19 passengers. Flights are planned for daytime. Passenger services are to be organised through Aliya Moldagulova International Airport JSC.
Aircraft for the service are planned to be acquired through financial leasing via the Industrial Development Fund JSC. Once construction is complete, the airfield will have to undergo certification.
The launch of flights will depend on infrastructure readiness, the acquisition of aircraft and completion of the required permit procedures. Developing domestic air routes and small aviation is among the state policy priorities outlined by Head of State Kassym-Jomart Tokayev to improve regional transport access.
