Kostanay Airport

Akhmet Baitursynov Kostanay International Airport is the main air gateway of the Kostanay region, playing a key role in the transport system of Northern Kazakhstan. Located just a few kilometers from the city, it serves as an important hub for domestic and international flights, connecting the region with the country's largest cities and destinations abroad. Following recent modernization, which included the reconstruction and extension of the runway, the airport is capable of handling various types of aircraft, contributing to the growth of passenger traffic and tourism development. For travelers, this is a convenient and modern starting point for exploring the rich history and picturesque nature of this region.

The airport is constantly working to improve its infrastructure and service quality. Inside the terminal building, for the convenience of passengers, there is a waiting hall, an information desk, a medical station, and a mother and child room. For a more comfortable stay, you can use the services of the CIP Lounge, where Wi-Fi, the latest newspapers, and expedited pre-flight formalities are available. You can reach the city center by city bus No. 3, which runs from the bus station, or by taxi; it is recommended to book a car through local services for a more favorable rate. Both regular domestic flights and seasonal charter destinations are actively developing, making Kostanay Airport an attractive point to begin your travels.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Kostanay International Airport (KSN):

• Official website: kst.aero
• Information desk phone: +7 (7142) 28-08-00
• Address: Kazakhstan, Kostanay, "Airport" territory
• Email: kst_airport@mail.ru (for official inquiries)
• Lost & Found service: +7 (7142) 28-07-77
• Social media: It is recommended to check the airport's website for the availability of official social media pages.
• Passenger support: For all questions related to your journey and service at the airport, please contact the information desk at the phone number listed above.

Getting to Kostanay Airport (KSN), located in the immediate vicinity of the city of Kostanay in Kazakhstan, is possible via several convenient methods suitable for any budget and preference.

Public transport is the most economical option. City buses run regularly to the airport. Most often, buses No. 3 and No. 11 operate on this route. The fare is the lowest and usually amounts to about 100–150 tenge. The trip from the city center will take approximately 25–35 minutes, depending on traffic and the number of stops. It is recommended to check the current schedule and route number in advance, as they may change. This method is excellent for travelers without bulky luggage.

Taxi and transfer are the fastest and most comfortable ways to reach the terminal. A trip from the central part of the city will take just 15–20 minutes. The estimated cost of the trip will be 800–1500 tenge, but the price may vary depending on demand and vehicle class. Both local taxi services and popular mobile apps for booking cars operate in Kostanay. This is an ideal choice if you are traveling with family, a large number of suitcases, or simply value comfort and wish to get to the airport without transfers.

If you plan to move actively around the region, it is worth considering car rental. There are several rental agencies in the city where you can choose a car to your taste. With a rented car, you will not depend on public transport schedules. For those arriving at the airport in their own or rented car, there is a parking lot on the station square. Here you can leave your car for a short time for meeting or seeing off passengers, or for a long term during your trip.

Kostanay Airport (KSN) is a small regional airport distinguished by a simple and clear structure. Thanks to its compactness, navigation here will not cause difficulties even for those arriving for the first time.

The airport operates one passenger terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights. This means you will not have to move between different buildings, which significantly saves time and energy. All key zones—check-in counters, waiting halls, security checkpoints, and baggage claim areas—are located in one building and within walking distance of each other.

The terminal layout is intuitive. Upon entering, you find yourself in the general hall where the check-in counters are located. After completing check-in and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed to the security screening area, and then to the departure hall. Arrival and departure zones are clearly separated but located close to each other. Signs in Russian and Kazakh will help you orient yourself easily.

Due to the small size of the airport, completing all pre-flight formalities usually takes less time than in major aviation hubs. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance: 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight and 2.5-3 hours before an international one. This time will be sufficient to check in, drop off luggage, and pass through security screening without haste.

The main advice for navigating Kostanay Airport is to follow the signs and not worry about getting lost. All procedures take place sequentially and in one building, making travel through this airport as comfortable and predictable as possible.

The history of Kostanay Airport, named after Akhmet Baitursynov, begins long before the opening of its modern complex. Although aviation in the region has been developing since the 1930s, the current airport terminal complex was put into operation in 1974. Initially known as "Narimanovka" Airport, it became a key transport hub for the entire Kostanay region, providing connections to major cities of the Soviet Union.

During the Soviet period, the airport played an important role in the economic development of the region, especially during the time of the development of the virgin lands. It received regular flights of Yak-40, An-24, Tu-134, and Tu-154 aircraft, connecting Kostanay with Moscow, Leningrad, Kiev, and other capitals of the union republics. It was a lively hub serving both passenger and cargo transportation necessary for the needs of the growing region.

A turning point in the recent history of the airport was the large-scale reconstruction carried out in 2017–2019. During the modernization, the runway was significantly extended and strengthened, reaching a length of 2,800 meters. The airport was equipped with modern lighting and navigation equipment, allowing it to accept aircraft in difficult weather conditions. The passenger terminal was also updated to meet international standards.

Thanks to this reconstruction, the airport gained the ability to accept larger and more modern aircraft, such as the Boeing 757/767 and Airbus A320/321. This allowed for the expansion of flight geography and strengthened the airport's status as the international air gateway of Northern Kazakhstan. Today, Kostanay Airport is a modern transport facility that continues to develop, ensuring reliable air connections for residents and guests of the region.

Kostanay Airport (KSN) is a modern regional aviation hub that provides passengers with all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its compact size, the terminal is well-equipped and offers thoughtful service for both tourists and business travelers.

Cafes operate within the airport territory where you can have a snack before departure, along with several shops selling souvenirs, newspapers, and travel goods. Comfortable halls are provided for waiting for flights. For passengers preferring enhanced comfort, a VIP Lounge is available, offering a calmer atmosphere, drinks, and snacks. It can also serve as a place for holding business meetings.

To stay connected, passengers can use free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal. Special stations are equipped for charging electronic devices. ATMs are installed in the terminal building, and a currency exchange office operates as well. In case of necessity, you can visit the medical station, where first aid will be provided.

For passengers with small children, a mother and child room is equipped—a cozy and quiet space for rest and baby care. The airport also provides services for passengers with reduced mobility, including special assistance and help with boarding. It is recommended to notify the airline in advance about the need for such support.

There are no hotels directly on the airport territory, however, the nearest hotels are located in the city of Kostanay itself, which can be quickly reached by taxi or public transport. The trip to the city center takes about 15–20 minutes, making the airport a convenient starting point for exploring this region of Kazakhstan.

Kostanay Airport (KSN) offers passengers several options for a snack or a full lunch while waiting for a flight. Although the choice of establishments here is not as vast as in major international hubs, you will be able to find everything necessary to spend time comfortably before departure.

The main dining establishment is a cafeteria-style cafe located in the general hall on the ground floor (in the area before security control). Both departing passengers and those seeing them off can eat here. The menu usually includes hot home-style dishes: soups, pilaf, cutlets with garnish, as well as fresh salads and pastries. This is the best option for a full lunch or dinner. We recommend trying local pastries, for example, samsa (a savory meat pastry)—this is a hearty and delicious snack that will introduce you to the cuisine of Kazakhstan.

After passing passport and customs control, in the departure zone, there is typically a small coffee shop or snack bar operating. This is an ideal place for a quick snack. Here you can order coffee, tea, soft drinks, as well as purchase chocolate, sandwiches, and other packaged snacks to take with you on board the plane.

Regarding special dietary needs, finding separate vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free menus at the airport might be challenging. However, in the main cafe, you can always find simple vegetable salads or side dishes (rice, potatoes). Prices at the airport are moderate but expectedly higher than in city establishments. The opening hours of cafes and snack bars are usually tied to the flight schedule, ensuring service for passengers of both morning and evening departures.

To ensure your journey through the airport of Kostanay city goes smoothly and without unnecessary stress, take advantage of our tips. The airport serves both domestic and international destinations, and knowing a few nuances will make your flight more comfortable.

Arrival time. We recommend arriving at the airport well in advance. For international flights—2-3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights within Kazakhstan—1.5-2 hours. This time is enough to check in, check your luggage, and pass pre-flight screening without haste.

Check-in and security control. To speed up the process, complete online check-in in advance if your airline provides such a service. Have your passport and boarding pass ready at the airport. When passing through security, be prepared to take laptops, tablets, and other large gadgets, as well as your bag of liquids, out of your hand luggage.

Choosing a seat on the plane. If you want to enjoy the views, choose a window seat. If the ability to stand up and leave freely without disturbing neighbors is important to you, your choice is an aisle seat. Note that many airlines charge an additional fee for advance seat selection.

Hand luggage. Remember the restrictions: liquids can be carried in containers with a volume of no more than 100 ml each. All of them must be packed in one transparent resealable bag with a volume of up to 1 liter. Sharp, cutting objects and flammable substances are prohibited in the cabin. Power banks are generally allowed only in hand luggage.

Passengers with transfers. Kostanay Airport is not a major transit hub, so when planning connecting flights, clarify whether you need to collect your luggage and check in for the next flight again. With self-connections, this is almost always necessary.

Customs control. When departing on an international flight, familiarize yourself with the customs regulations of the destination country. Do not forget to declare large amounts of cash or valuable items if required. Keep receipts for major purchases made abroad.

Saving time and money. Besides online check-in, booking a transfer in advance or using taxi apps will help save money. To avoid spending on water at the airport, you can bring an empty bottle and fill it after the security zone.

Flight delay. In case of a delay or cancellation of a flight, first contact your airline representative for current information. Depending on the duration of the wait, the air carrier is obliged to provide drinks, meals, and in case of long delays, hotel accommodation. Stay calm and use this time to rest.