Dhaka: Air Astana has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to acquire up to 50 Airbus A320neo family aircraft in a deal that will constitute its largest fleet order to date.

The agreement includes 25 firm orders and 25 purchase options, with the first deliveries scheduled for 2031. The jets will also be received by the low-cost subsidiary FlyArystan.

The move aims to support Air Astana’s strategy for operational efficiency and service standards as it addresses rising demand on long-haul routes to Asia and Europe. The majority of the new aircraft are expected to be the Airbus A321LR model, that has great range.

“Air Astana’s large order for a new fleet of Airbus A320neo family aircraft reflects a commitment to maintaining its reputation for operational efficiency and service excellence in the long term,” said Peter Foster, CEO of Air Astana.

The planned expansion aligns with industry trends among Central Asian carriers seeking to modernize fleets and enhance network reach.

Currently, Air Astana operates a fleet of 62 aircraft, of which 59 are from the Airbus A320 family. There are 31 jets in Air Astana and another 28 in FlyArystan, including A320neo and A321neo models.

For long-haul routes, the airline operates three Boeing 767-300s which will be replaced by up to 18 787-9 Dreamliners starting in 2026, as a result of a purchase agreement with the US manufacturer and also the leasing of three aircraft.

-B