About Almaty International Airport (ALA)

Almaty International Airport serves the Republic of Kazakhstan's largest city and former capital, Almaty, in the south of the country. Our Almaty International Airport guide provides details on transport to and from the airport, terminal facilities, and accommodation options nearby.

Airport news:

While there were plans to build a new passenger terminal with a large on-site hotel, conference halls and a shopping centre, this has now been cancelled. There is a new plan to demolish the construction and rebuild the new terminal used for domestic and international flights. There is also a plan to build a new airport in Kapchagai reservoir, 48km from Almaty.

Information:

There is an information office located in the public area of the terminal.

Website:

Driving directions:

From central Almaty, follow the main A2 road (Ryskulov Avenue) northeast, turning left onto the A351, Mailin Street, which leads directly into the airport. The total drive time from Almaty to the airport is approximately 35 minutes.

Public Transport

Public transport road:

Bus: Bus lines 79, 86, 92 and 106 run services between the airport and the city centre. Some airlines also operate their own services for their passengers, as do some of the larger hotels and service buses, operate into the city from outside the airport site, about 10 minutes' walk from the terminal.

Taxi: Taxis are available outside the terminal. Be prepared to haggle – but a reasonable fare into the city, which is about 30 minutes away, is the equivalent of around US$25-30.

Terminal facilities

Money:

ATMs are available within the terminal, and there is a bureau de change service for passengers wishing to convert currency.

Food:

A selection of cafés, bars and fast food outlets are available both airside and landside at the airport.

Shopping:

Duty-free is available in International Departures, with shops offering a range of products including liquor, tobacco, cosmetic goods, souvenirs and books.

Luggage:

A left-luggage service is available, along with baggage wrapping and trolleys. For lost and found queries, contact the main information desk (tel: +7 727 270 3333).

Other:

Other facilities available at Almaty International Airport include a 'mother and child' room, a first-aid facility and a prayer room, along with a number of tourist information desks run by tour operators.

Airport facilities

Conference and business:

There are currently no meeting facilities at the airport. There is, however, a VIP lounge in Departures granting passengers a quiet working environment. For meeting facilities, it’s necessary to travel to some of the city’s larger hotels, including the InterContinental (tel: +7 727 250 5000; www.ihg.com).

Communication Facilities:

Free Wi-Fi internet access is available throughout Almaty International Airport, along with public telephones and a post office.

Disabled facilities:

The airport is fully accessible, with lifts, ramps, escalators and disabled toilet facilities. Designated disabled parking is available immediately opposite the terminal entrance. Any passengers who may require additional assistance are advised to contact their airline before travelling.

Car parking:

Long- and short-stay parking is available in a covered area immediately outside the terminal. The first 15 minutes are free of charge.

Car rental:

Car rental company Europcar is represented at the airport, with offices at the International Terminal parking area.