Central Asia Aviation Market Hits Record Growth

Central Asia Sets Growth Rate Record in the Aviation Market, Led by Air Astana and Uzbekistan Airways

The Central Asian region has become the fastest-growing region in the global aviation market in terms of annual growth rate. Airline capacity has increased by nearly 500% over the past 20 years, with the region’s compound annual growth rate (CAGR) reaching 7.7%. This figure stands well above the global average.

Local carriers play a leading role in this regional growth. Kazakhstan’s national airline Air Astana and Uzbekistan’s flag carrier Uzbekistan Airways are expanding their route networks, contributing to capacity growth in both domestic and international markets.

According to data, Kazakhstan accounts for approximately 50% of Central Asia’s total aviation capacity, making it the largest market in the region. Uzbekistan follows as the second-largest market with a share of around 25%.

Shifts in market dynamics are also supported by the rising share of low-cost carriers. While low-cost aviation accounted for 4.6% of the market in 2015, this figure is projected to increase to 21% by 2025. This trend reflects growing demand from middle-class travelers.

The growth of the Central Asian aviation market is expected to boost both intra-regional and international traffic, driving further expansion in infrastructure investments and the tourism sector.