Air Astana and China Southern sign first Kazakhstan-China joint venture

Air Astana and China Southern Airlines have signed a joint venture agreement aimed at strengthening air connectivity between Kazakhstan and China, according to Travel Daily Media. The report, published on 2 November 2026, describes it as the first airline joint venture between the two countries. It affects passengers travelling between Kazakhstan, China and onward destinations.

What the agreement covers

The deal builds on the existing codeshare partnership between Air Astana and China Southern Airlines. Travel Daily Media says the collaboration is intended to streamline flight schedules, expand codeshare services and introduce joint marketing initiatives.

The agreement is also expected to simplify transfers and provide consistent travel conditions across both airlines. It should improve access to destinations in Kazakhstan, China and beyond, and support business, tourism, education and family travel.

Comments from officials and airline executives

Travel Daily Media reports that Talgat Lastaev, Kazakhstan's Deputy Minister of Transport, pointed to a 52% increase in flights between the two countries compared with the same period in 2025. He also outlined plans to expand the route network to 30 destinations.

Richard Ledger, Air Astana's VP of Partnerships and Alliances, stressed China's strategic importance as a market and Kazakhstan's role as a gateway between Europe and Asia. He said the joint venture aims to give passengers more choice and convenient connections while responding to demand.

Zeng Yongchao, EVP of China Southern Airlines, described the partnership as a strategic move under the Belt and Road framework. He said it would strengthen aviation connectivity and offer more flight options and a seamless travel experience.

What this means for travellers

The sources describe the aims in general terms. Passengers can expect, in principle, more coordinated schedules, wider codeshare options and easier transfers between the two airlines' networks, including onward connections through Kazakhstan and China.

The reports do not give details of new routes, frequencies, start dates, fares or how the joint venture will be structured. Travellers should keep to the existing booking arrangements until the airlines announce specific changes.