Ahead of the terminal’s opening, President Tokayev was briefed on the construction progress and toured the registration areas, border and customs control, and the luggage compartment.
Alp Er Tunga Ersoy, President of Almaty International Airport JSC, highlighted that the terminal was built to meet seismic and fire safety standards, capable of withstanding up to a magnitude 10 earthquake. The terminal covers a total area of 53,500 square meters and can accommodate 14 million passengers annually.
The terminal is set to be the first in Central Asia certified under the Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies (EDGE) program. It features 50 check-in counters and the latest equipment, fully accommodating people with disabilities.
President Tokayev also toured the new VIP terminal.
He emphasized that the airport creates the first impression of the city and the country. “Almaty International Airport is the largest in the country. Tourist numbers to the southern capital are rising, with over 2 million tourists visiting in 2023. Two years ago, I participated in the capsule laying ceremony at the construction site, and tomorrow the new terminal will serve its first flights,” said President Tokayev.
In conclusion, President Tokayev thanked TAV GROUP for constructing the terminal to international standards, and expressed gratitude to the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the International Finance Corporation, and the Eurasian Development Bank for their support in this significant project for Almaty.