Almaty International Airport (ALA)

About Almaty International Airport (ALA)

Almaty International Airport is the largest and busiest airport in Kazakhstan and one of the key aviation hubs in Central Asia. Located about 9 km northeast of Almaty, it is the primary gateway to Kazakhstan's largest city and former capital. Operated by TAV Kazakhstan, it connects Almaty to destinations across Asia, Europe, Russia, and the Middle East, and has been upgraded in recent years to meet growing demand.

Almaty Airport Details - Almaty International Airport IATA, Address and Pin Code

• Official Name: Almaty International Airport
• IATA Code: ALA
• ICAO Code: UAAA
• Address: 1 Maidan Kanat Street, Almaty, Kazakhstan 050039
• Airport Pin Code: 050039
• Distance from Almaty City Centre: Approximately 9 km
• Phone Number: +7 727 270 3333
• Old Name: Alma-Ata Airport

How Many Airports in Almaty?

Almaty is served by one commercial airport: ALA. Kazakhstan's capital Astana is served by a separate airport (TSE), about 1,200 km north. For all domestic and international flights in the Almaty region, ALA is the sole option.

How Many Terminals in Almaty Airport?

Almaty International Airport has two terminals. Terminal 1 handles domestic and regional flights. Terminal 2 is the main international terminal, upgraded as part of the airport's modernisation programme. Both are on the same campus, accessible on foot or by a short transfer.

Distance Between Almaty Airport Terminals

Terminals 1 and 2 are on the same campus, a 5 to 10-minute walk apart. Passengers connecting between domestic and international flights should confirm transfer procedures with their airline and allow adequate time for any required checks.

How Many Runways in Almaty Airport?

The airport has two runways. The main runway (05R/23L) at approximately 4,000 metres is one of the longest in Central Asia and handles wide-body aircraft including the Boeing 747 and Airbus A330. The secondary runway (05L/23R) is approximately 3,600 metres. Both have instrument landing systems for all-weather operations.

Visa and Immigration for Almaty Airport

Indian passport holders can visit Kazakhstan without a prior visa for short stays under Kazakhstan's visa-free arrangement with India.

• Visa-Free Entry: Indian nationals can enter Kazakhstan visa-free for stays of up to 14 days, making it one of the more accessible Central Asian destinations for Indian travellers.
• eVisa for Longer Stays: For stays beyond 14 days or for business travel, apply for a Kazakhstan eVisa at evisa.mfa.gov.kz. Single and double entry options are available, typically processed within 5 business days.
• Required Documents: Valid Indian passport with 6 months of remaining validity, return or onward ticket, confirmed accommodation, and proof of sufficient funds.
• eVisa Fee: Approximately USD 30 to 75 depending on the visa type, payable online during the application.
• Immigration Process: On arrival at ALA, proceed to immigration counters with your passport and entry documents. Biometric fingerprints and a photograph may be collected as part of standard entry procedures.

Verify the latest conditions at evisa.mfa.gov.kz before travel, as visa policies can be updated.

Almaty Airport Lounges and Facilities

• Business Lounge (Terminal 2): A dedicated lounge with seating, refreshments, beverages, and Wi-Fi for business class passengers and lounge pass holders.
• General Facilities: Wi-Fi, prayer rooms, medical services, ATMs, currency exchange, duty-free shops, and dining serving Kazakh and international cuisine.

Things to Do in Almaty Airport

• Browse duty-free shops for spirits, local Kazakh products, confectionery, and international goods.
• Dine at airport restaurants serving Kazakh dishes and international options.
• Relax at the Terminal 2 Business Lounge with a business class ticket or lounge access pass.

Places to Visit Near Almaty Airport

• Almaty City Centre: About 9 km away, the city offers Panfilov Park, Zenkov Cathedral, the Central State Museum, and the Green Bazaar market, all reachable in 20 to 30 minutes by taxi.
• Shymbulak Ski Resort: About 25 km south, this popular mountain resort in the Zailiysky Alatau offers skiing in winter and hiking in summer against dramatic snow-capped peaks.
• Big Almaty Lake: About 28 km south, this glacial lake at 2,511 metres within the Ile-Alatau National Park is one of Kazakhstan's most photographed natural landmarks.

FAQs About Almaty Airport - Almaty International Airport

What is the Official Name of Almaty Airport?

The official name is Almaty International Airport, formerly Alma-Ata Airport.

What is the IATA Code for Almaty International Airport?

The IATA code is ALA and the ICAO code is UAAA.

Which Terminals Serve Domestic and International Flights at Almaty Airport?

Terminal 1 serves domestic and some regional flights, while Terminal 2 handles the majority of international arrivals and departures.

Where is Almaty Airport Located?

The airport is approximately 9 km northeast of Almaty city centre in Kazakhstan.

When Was Almaty Airport Built?

The airport was established in the 1930s as Alma-Ata Airport. It has been expanded and modernised since Kazakhstan's independence in 1991, with major upgrades to Terminal 2 in recent years.

Is ALA Open 24 Hours?

Yes, Almaty International Airport operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

How Far is Almaty Airport from Almaty City Center?

The airport is approximately 9 km from the city centre, around 20 to 30 minutes by car. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are available from the arrivals area, and bus services also connect the airport to central Almaty.

What Airlines Operate from ALA?

Airlines at ALA include Air Astana, FlyArystan, Turkish Airlines, Emirates, Air Arabia, Aeroflot, China Southern, flydubai, and other regional and international carriers.

Are There Lounges at Almaty Airport?

Yes, Terminal 2 has a Business Lounge open to business class passengers and lounge pass holders.