Kazakhstan is preparing to introduce air taxi services within the next two to three years as part of efforts to develop low-altitude transport infrastructure. The initiative was outlined by Kanat Bozumbayev during a joint session of parliament.
The project is linked to the development of Alatau, located approximately 47 kilometers from Almaty, which has been identified as a potential testing ground for low-altitude aviation technologies. Authorities plan to position Alatau as a pilot location for long-distance drone and air taxi operations at altitudes exceeding 120 meters, making it one of the first such sites outside Shenzhen.
Test flights are expected to begin in 2026. Kazakhstan has entered negotiations and signed preliminary agreements with Joby Aviation and AutoFlight, both of which specialize in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. According to officials, Joby Aviation currently faces significant global demand for its air taxi services.
The planned infrastructure includes the construction of “quadroports,” which will serve as takeoff and landing hubs connecting Alatau with Konayev, various locations within Almaty, and nearby tourist destinations. The network is intended to support both urban mobility and tourism flows.
Authorities estimate that the region could attract up to 8mn tourists annually. Air taxis are expected to operate at speeds of 300–350 kilometers per hour, reducing travel time between key locations in the Almaty region to approximately 10–15 minutes during the initial phase. The system is planned to operate along designated routes using unmanned aircraft.
The initiative builds on an agreement reached in November 2025 between Kazakhstan and Joby Aviation for the purchase of eVTOL aircraft valued at approximately $300mn. These aircraft are intended to be integrated into the broader transport network of Alatau and the surrounding Almaty region.
The project forms part of Kazakhstan’s broader strategy to develop advanced transport solutions and diversify infrastructure in support of urban development and tourism.
