Air Astana and China Southern Airlines have recently sealed a codeshare agreement, marking a significant milestone in their partnership. This new deal, inked on July 29, 2025, will enhance connectivity between the two countries as the airlines expand their services. The agreement encompasses various routes operated by both carriers, linking key cities in Kazakhstan and China.

Under this collaboration, passengers can expect seamless travel between Almaty, Beijing, Guangzhou, Urumqi, and Astana, thanks to the joint efforts of Air Astana and China Southern Airlines. The airlines will be utilizing their respective fleets of narrowbody aircraft for these nonstop services, ensuring a comfortable and efficient journey for travelers.

In a recent interview with Pilotcenter.net News, Air Astana’s CEO, Peter Foster, emphasized the importance of China as a strategic market for the airline’s global expansion. The surge in Chinese tourists visiting Kazakhstan in 2024 further underscores the growing interest in Central Asia as a travel destination, as highlighted by officials at the Ministry of Tourism and Sports of Kazakhstan.

According to data from the Cirium SRS Analyzer, Air Astana and China Southern Airlines lead the pack in terms of offering the largest capacity for flights between China and Kazakhstan. Despite their dominance, other players like SCAT, FlyArystan, Air China, China Eastern Airlines, and Loong Air are also actively serving this market, catering to the increasing demand for air travel between the two countries.

This codeshare agreement not only strengthens the bond between Air Astana and China Southern Airlines but also opens up new opportunities for travelers seeking seamless connectivity and enhanced travel experiences in the region.