Kazakhstan’s Air Astana orders up to 15 Boeing 787 Dreamliners to drive long-haul expansion

Air Astana, Kazakhstan’s flag carrier, has announced a major commitment for up to 15 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, marking its largest-ever aircraft order and signalling Central Asia’s growing role in global aviation.

Once finalised, the deal will expand Air Astana’s 787 fleet to as many as 18 aircraft, including three units already on lease, and will support over 20,000 U.S. jobs. The new aircraft will enable the airline to increase capacity on existing routes and launch long-haul services to North America, while replacing its current Boeing 767s.

“With its fuel efficiency, range, and passenger comfort, the Boeing 787-9 will be key to our next decade of growth,” said Peter Foster, CEO of Air Astana. “The first Dreamliner’s arrival next year marks the start of an exciting new phase in our global expansion.”

The agreement was signed during the C5+1 Summit in Washington, D.C., underscoring closer U.S.-Central Asia ties.

“Air Astana’s confidence in the 787 Dreamliner highlights the aircraft’s ability to elevate operational efficiency and passenger experience,” said Paul Righi, Boeing’s Vice President of Commercial Sales for Eurasia and India.

Air Astana currently operates three Boeing 767s on routes linking Kazakhstan with Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The new 787-9s, configured for 303 passengers, will allow the airline to modernise its fleet and extend its reach across the globe.