Airbus has confirmed that Kazakhstan’s flag carrier Air Astana has placed an order for 25 A320neo family aircraft, its largest ever order with the European manufacturer.
On March 2, 2026, Airbus announced that five A320neo and 20 A321neo aircraft would be deployed with both Air Astana and its low-cost subsidiary FlyArystan as part of the overall fleet expansion and renewal.
The agreement was made on the 20th anniversary since Air Astana started operating its first A320 in 2006.
“Air Astana’s large order for a new fleet of Airbus A320neo Family aircraft reflects a commitment to maintaining its reputation for operational efficiency and service excellence in the long term,” said Peter Foster, CEO of Air Astana.
News of the potential Airbus order first came to light in November 2025, after Air Astana signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Airbus for up to 50 A320neo family aircraft.
The group’s shareholders then subsequently approved an order with Airbus in February 2026.
“The Airbus A320neo Family has proven to be an outstanding success in service with Air Astana over many years. In particular, the A321LR in its premium configuration allows us to offer what we believe is the world’s best narrow-body long-haul product, combining true long-range capability with an exceptional onboard experience,” added Foster.
Currently Air Astana and subsidiary FlyArystan operate a fleet of 59 Airbus A320 family aircraft. The A320 family is the world’s most popular single-aisle aircraft having won more than 19,000 orders globally.
“This order further validates the unmatched economics and market appeal of the A320neo Family in one of the world’s fastest-growing aviation markets,” said Benoît de Saint-Exupéry, Airbus EVP Sales of the Commercial Aircraft business. “We are pleased to support Air Astana’s vision to connect Kazakhstan to the world. This deal solidifies a decades-long bond, ensuring they continue to set the regional gold standard for fleet modernisation, operational excellence and passenger experience.”
On February 17, 2026, Air Astana completed a widebody order for up to 15 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft.
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