Air Astana has completed its order for up to 15 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft as Kazakhstan’s flag carrier moves to modernize its widebody fleet and expand long-haul operations.
The deal, finalized on February 17, 2026, is currently the largest single aircraft purchase in Air Astana’s history. Combined with three additional 787-9s to be delivered through leasing arrangements, the airline’s Dreamliner fleet will reach 18 aircraft once all deliveries are complete.
Strategic expansion plans
The order builds on a commitment Air Astana announced in November 2025, reflecting the airline’s long-term growth strategy for operations from Central Asia. CEO Peter Foster described the acquisition as marking “the start of this exciting phase of development” for the carrier’s service capabilities.
“Air Astana is strategically committed to boosting its service capabilities from Central Asia and Caucasus to Asia, Europe and the rest of the world over the next decade,” Foster said.
The new aircraft will seat 303 passengers and enable Air Astana to expand capacity on existing routes while opening possibilities for North American destinations. The carrier currently operates three Boeing 767 widebody jets serving destinations across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Economic impact
Boeing highlighted the economic significance of the order, stating it will support more than 20,000 jobs across the United States. The agreement was signed during the C5+1 Summit, marking the 10th anniversary of the diplomatic platform between the US and Central Asian nations.
Paul Righi, Boeing’s Vice President of Commercial Sales for Eurasia and India, positioned the deal within broader regional aviation trends.
“Air Astana’s decision to expand its fleet with the 787-9 aligns with its vision to boost operational capabilities and efficiency while elevating its service offerings,” he said.
Fleet modernization
The transition from older 767s to the more fuel-efficient 787-9s supports industry-wide efforts to reduce operating costs and environmental impact. The Dreamliner’s advanced technology and extended range capabilities will provide Air Astana with greater operational flexibility as it seeks to establish Kazakhstan as a connecting hub between Asia and Europe.
Foster emphasized the passenger experience benefits, describing the 787-9’s “customer friendly cabin, fuel efficiency and range flexibility” as key factors in the selection. The aircraft joins a global 787 fleet that Boeing says carries approximately 500,000 passengers daily across more international routes than any other widebody aircraft family.
The deal strengthens Boeing’s position in Central Asia’s growing aviation market and continues a relationship with Air Astana that dates to the airline’s early operations. For Air Astana, the fleet expansion supports ambitions to increase Kazakhstan’s role as a regional aviation hub while preparing for potential entry into the competitive North American market.
