Hazret Sultan

Hazret Sultan International Airport is the modern air gateway to ancient Turkestan, one of the spiritual and cultural centres of Kazakhstan. Opened in 2020, it became the first airport in the country to be built from scratch during the years of independence. Its design and name are closely linked to the historical heritage of the region, specifically the name of the great Sufi poet and philosopher Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, whose mausoleum is a major attraction for tourists and pilgrims. The airport is not just a transport hub, but a symbol of the renewal and hospitality of the sacred land of Turkestan.

Hazret Sultan Airport stands out not only for its novelty but also for its well-thought-out infrastructure. Its terminal, covering an area of 10,500 square metres, is capable of serving up to 450 passengers per hour, which will eventually allow it to welcome up to 3 million guests per year. One of its points of pride is the prestigious PRIX VERSAILLES award, which included it in the list of the "World's Most Beautiful Airports". For the convenience of travellers, modern services are provided here, including information stands with Braille support, spacious waiting lounges, and telescopic jet bridges. The airport operates under an "open skies" regime, which helps attract new airlines and expand the flight network, connecting Turkestan with major cities around the world.

• Official website: www.hsia.kz
• Information desk phone: +7 (700) 111-43-34
• Address: Hazret Sultan International Airport, Shaga village, Turkestan Region, Kazakhstan
• Email: info@hsia.kz
• Social media: You can follow airport news on their official pages on Instagram (@hazretsultanairport) and Facebook (@hazretsultanairport).
• Lost & Found: For baggage tracing inquiries, please contact +7 (700) 111-43-34 (ext. 31-30, 31-31) or email lostandfound@hsia.kz.
• Passenger Support Service: For assistance and consultations, you can use the airport's unified information desk number.

Hazret Sultan International Airport (HSA) is located approximately 20 km east of the city centre of Turkestan. There are several ways to reach it, allowing travellers to choose the most convenient option depending on their budget and preferences.

Public Transport

The most economical way to get to the airport is by public transport. Special buses run between the city and the airport. Although the journey will take slightly longer than a taxi — about 40-50 minutes — it is an excellent choice for budget-conscious tourists. The fare is approximately 200 tenge. Stops are usually located at key points in the city, but it is best to check the schedule and exact route in advance, as they may change.

Taxi and Transfers

Taking a taxi is the fastest and most comfortable way to reach the airport. Mobile taxi apps are popular in Kazakhstan, offering rides at fixed prices. The travel time from the centre of Turkestan is just 20-25 minutes, and the cost usually varies from 2,500 to 4,000 tenge depending on demand and the time of day. You can also book a private transfer in advance, which is particularly convenient if you are travelling with large luggage or family.

Car Rental and Parking

If you prefer complete freedom of movement, you can rent a car from one of the rental agencies in the city. The road to the airport is good and straightforward, with signposts along the way. Hazret Sultan Airport has parking facilities where you can leave your car for a short period (for dropping off or picking up passengers) or for the long term during your trip. This is a convenient option for those arriving at the airport in their own vehicle.

Hazret Sultan International Airport (HSA) in Turkestan is a modern and compact air hub designed for maximum passenger convenience. Its structure is simple and intuitive, making navigation easy even for first-time visitors.

The airport consists of one passenger terminal that serves both domestic and international flights. This solution saves travellers from having to move between different buildings, conserving time and energy. All key zones — check-in, security screening, boarding gates, and baggage claim — are located under one roof.

The terminal layout is logical and well-planned. Departure and Arrival zones are clearly separated, typically by different levels or parts of the building, preventing overcrowding. Navigation signs are in multiple languages (Kazakh, Russian, and English), so finding the right check-in counter, boarding gate, or passport control area is effortless. The departure zone includes check-in counters, security checkpoints, passport control for international flights, as well as a waiting lounge with shops and cafes. The arrival zone consists of passport control, baggage reclaim belts, and customs control.

The time required for pre-flight formalities at Hazret Sultan Airport is generally short due to its modern equipment and efficient staff. However, it is recommended to arrive in advance:

• For domestic flights — 1.5-2 hours before departure.
• For international flights — 2.5-3 hours before departure.

This time buffer will allow you to check in, drop off luggage, and pass through security calmly without rushing. Since there is only one terminal, you do not need to factor in extra time for transfers — all processes take place sequentially in one building.

Hazret Sultan International Airport (HSA) represents the state-of-the-art air gateway of Turkestan and is one of the newest airports in Kazakhstan. Its history does not stretch back decades but is a vivid example of the region's rapid development. Unlike many other airports that were rebuilt and modernised based on Soviet infrastructure, Hazret Sultan was built from scratch in record time.

Construction began in 2019, 20 kilometres from the city, and by December 2020, the airport officially welcomed its first flights. This project was unique as it was the first airport built on a greenfield site in the history of modern Kazakhstan. Constructing a modern terminal complex and runway in less than two years was a record in itself and a testament to the strategic importance of the facility.

The main goal of creating the airport was to ensure transport accessibility for the Turkestan region, which is actively developing as a spiritual and cultural centre of the Turkic world. Its opening is directly linked to plans to transform Turkestan into a major hub for international tourism. To attract foreign airlines and expand the flight network, an "open skies" regime was introduced at the airport.

Among interesting facts, its symbolic name is worth noting. "Hazret Sultan" is one of the epithets of the great Sufi poet and philosopher Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, whose mausoleum is the city's main shrine. Thus, the airport immerses arrivals in the historical atmosphere of the region from the very name. The terminal is built to international IATA standards and is capable of accepting all types of modern aircraft, making it a key infrastructure project for all of Central Asia.

Hazret Sultan International Airport (HSA) offers passengers modern infrastructure and all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Being new and technologically advanced, the terminal is designed to meet the needs of various categories of travellers arriving in the city of Turkestan.

While waiting for your flight, you can grab a bite at one of the cafes or restaurants, which serve both local and European cuisine. For those wishing to shop, stores are open, including a Duty Free zone with a wide range of perfumes, cosmetics, confectionery, and souvenirs.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay connected or handle work matters. Numerous sockets and special stations are provided for charging electronic devices. The airport also features ATMs and currency exchange points where you can perform necessary financial transactions.

For passengers who value enhanced comfort, VIP and Business Lounges are available. They offer a private atmosphere, snacks, beverages, and other privileges. Additionally, conference rooms can be rented at the airport for business meetings.

The airport cares for all passengers. A mother and child room is equipped for travellers with children, offering a quiet environment to feed and change babies. In case of need, you can visit the medical point for first aid. A barrier-free environment has been created for passengers with reduced mobility: ramps, special lifts, and restrooms are installed, and airport staff are ready to provide necessary assistance.

Although there is no hotel directly within the airport building, travellers can easily find numerous accommodation options in the city of Turkestan itself, which is in close proximity to the air harbour. The trip to the nearest hotels does not take much time.

At Hazret Sultan International Airport (HSA), located in the city of Turkestan, passengers will find several convenient dining options while waiting for their flight. Whether you are looking for a quick coffee or a full meal, there are establishments here to suit every taste and budget.

The main dining spots, represented by small coffee shops and cafeterias, are concentrated both in the public area before security and in the departure zone (airside). This is convenient for both passengers and those seeing them off. The menus offer both familiar European dishes and the opportunity to experience the cuisine of Kazakhstan. Be sure to try local pastries, such as filling samsa, or order aromatic plov (pilaf) — it is a great way to enjoy the national flavour before departure.

For those in a hurry, a quick snack at one of the coffee shops is the ideal solution. They offer sandwiches, fresh salads, desserts, as well as hot and cold drinks. If you have an hour or more to spare, you can settle into one of the cafes in the departure zone for a full lunch. Their menus usually include soups, hot main courses, and a wider selection of appetisers.

Many establishments in the departure zone operate around the clock or synchronise their schedule with flight times, so you can refresh yourself even with an early departure or late arrival. Regarding special dietary needs, most cafes have vegetarian options. As for Halal, vegan, or gluten-free dishes, it is best to verify directly with the staff, who will help you make the right choice.

Food prices at Hazret Sultan Airport, as in most air hubs, are slightly higher than average city prices. However, the variety of venue formats — from vending machines with snacks to small cafes — allows you to find an option that suits your budget.

Travelling through Hazret Sultan International Airport can be easy and pleasant if you prepare in advance. To make your experience as comfortable as possible, use these helpful tips.

Arrival time at the airport. For international flights, it is recommended to arrive 2.5-3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights — 1.5-2 hours. This will give you enough time to complete all formalities without haste, even during peak hours. Always check your airline's recommendations, as they may differ.

Check-in and Security Control. To save time, complete online check-in for your flight if your airline offers this option. This allows you to go straight to the baggage drop-off counter or, if travelling light, to the security checkpoint. Be prepared to remove laptops and other large gadgets from your hand luggage in advance, and pack all liquids up to 100 ml in a separate transparent bag.

Seat Selection. If you have the option to choose a seat during check-in, consider your preferences. Window seats offer the chance to enjoy views of the endless steppe during take-off and landing. Aisle seats are convenient if you plan to get up during the flight or want to exit the aircraft faster upon arrival.

Hand Luggage Rules. Standard international rules prohibit carrying sharp objects (scissors, knives), flammable substances, and liquids in containers larger than 100 ml in hand luggage. Be sure to check the weight and size limits for hand luggage on your airline's website, as they can vary significantly.

Connecting Passengers. If you have a connecting flight, clarify at check-in whether you need to collect your luggage and re-register it. In most cases, when flying with the same airline or alliance, luggage is transferred automatically. Follow the "Transit" / "Transfer" signs to proceed to the departure zone of your next flight.

Customs Control. When entering Kazakhstan or leaving the country through the airport in Turkestan, you may need to pass through customs control. If you are carrying amounts exceeding the established limit or goods subject to declaration, use the "Red Channel". If you have no such items, feel free to go through the "Green Channel".

Saving Time and Money. Book a taxi in advance or study the public transport schedule to avoid overpaying for transfers. The airport building has free Wi-Fi, which helps save on mobile roaming. You can also bring an empty reusable water bottle and fill it at drinking fountains after passing security.

In Case of Flight Delay. In the event of a long delay, contact your airline representative. Depending on the duration of the wait, you may be provided with drinks, hot meals, or even hotel accommodation. Keep all receipts for expenses incurred due to the delay — they may be needed to claim compensation from the airline or via travel insurance.