14 October 2024 | 18:07

Balkhash airport banned from serving civilian flights

©️ Tengrinews.kz / Turar Kazangapov

Tengrinews.kz - Balkhash airport has been restricted from handling civilian flights starting from October 2024 due to the expiration of its operational certificate.

"From October 2 to December 31, 2024, Balkhash airfield will not be used for the takeoff or landing of civilian aircraft," according to an anonymous Telegram channel.

There are also reports that the following airports are nearing the expiration of their certificates:

Astana Airport – valid until December 24, 2024;
Kostanay Airport – valid until October 25, 2024;
Urjar Airport – valid until November 29, 2024.

In response, the Civil Aviation Committee clarified the situation, explaining that, according to civil aviation regulations, airfields are allowed to operate after the operator obtains a certificate of compliance, which is issued for a limited period.

Regarding Balkhash, the committee confirmed that its certificate expired on October 2, 2024. The airport, which is owned by the Karaganda region's local government, currently has no regular flights. The certificate was not renewed due to non-compliance with certification requirements, the main issue being the lack of legal status for the airfield operator. Once these issues are resolved and an application is submitted, the airfield will undergo an inspection, after which a decision on certificate renewal will be made.

"The issue does not apply to other airports in the country. All necessary maintenance work is being carried out," the committee stated.

In line with the law "On the Use of Airspace of Kazakhstan and Aviation Activities" (dated July 15, 2020), Kazakh airports undergo certification inspections by the Aviation Administration of Kazakhstan, which issues operational certificates if the airports meet the required standards.

The committee also confirmed that airports in Aktau, Atyrau, Kokshetau, Pavlodar, and Petropavlovsk currently hold valid certificates. Regular maintenance and repairs are conducted to ensure the safety and compliance of runways with international ICAO standards.

airport Kazakhstan Balkhash Travel Kostanay

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