Tengrinews.kz - Travelers from Kazakhstan will soon be able to fly directly to Hong Kong from Astana and Almaty.
A Kazakh delegation led by Deputy Minister of Transport Talgat Lastayev visited Hong Kong International Airport, where meetings were held with Kelvin Ma, Deputy Director of Hong Kong’s Transport and Logistics Bureau, Vivian Cheung, CEO of the airport, as well as executives from major regional carriers including Hong Kong Airlines, Cathay Pacific, and Hong Kong Air Cargo.
“During the discussions, Hong Kong-based airlines expressed plans to launch passenger flights to Almaty and Astana using fifth freedom traffic rights, along with increasing cargo air transportation between Kazakhstan and Hong Kong,” the Civil Aviation Committee of Kazakhstan stated.
The committee also noted that Hong Kong International Airport has been ranked as the world’s busiest cargo hub for 14 consecutive years. In 2024 alone, the airport handled 4.9 million tonnes of cargo.
3 interesting facts about Hong Kong for visitors
Hong Kong is home to a variety of unique attractions popular with tourists. Here are three highlights:
- Helicopter tour from the Peninsula Hotel: This iconic hotel offers guests an 18-minute helicopter flight over the city, with views of the harbor, skyscrapers, and landmarks like the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, IFC, Victoria Peak, Star Ferry Pier, and Kai Tak Cruise Terminal.
- Water taxi ride along Victoria Harbour: From the West Kowloon Cultural District to the Exhibition Centre, the harbor is lined with scenic spots best enjoyed by boat.
- Visit to the Central Market: A modern twist on traditional bazaars, this market blends food stalls, entertainment spaces, and co-working areas — creating a dynamic 21st-century experience. More can be found at the official tourism site: discoverhongkong.com.
Visa-free access for Kazakhstan citizens
As of April 2025, Kazakh citizens can visit Hong Kong without a visa for up to 14 days. However, travelers must ensure their passport is valid for the duration of their stay, and they are not permitted to work, study, or conduct business without a proper visa. It is also advisable to carry a return ticket or one to a third country.
Earlier, a new UAE airline announced plans to launch flights to Almaty.