OREANDA-NEWS. February 27, 2010. Air Astana is pleased to announce that following numerous requests and the increasing popularity of Kuala Lumpur – Almaty flight, it will become a regular service, reported the press-centre of Air Astana.

Let us recall the first flight to Kuala Lumpur, the city of gardens and lights operated by Kazakhstan’s flag carrier, Air Astana, with a Boeing 767 on 31st October 2009. Since then, Kazakh citizens have been able to fly with Air Astana every Saturday to sunny Malaysia, whilst Malaysians and other people from South East Asia can fly direct to snowy Almaty. Air Astana offers its Malaysian clients a convenient schedule of flights to Kazakhstan and onward to Europe and convenient connections to Australia and popular tourist destinations in South East Asia for Central Asia and CIS customers.

At first, it was decided that the flight would be seasonal. But within a short period of time, the load factor regularly reached more than 70 per cent. This success reflects the warm relations that exist between Kazakhstan and Malaysia, with commercial, economic, cultural and tourist connections being improved further with the new service link. Malaysia has become a favourite leisure destination for Kazakh people, drawn by unique character, affordable prices and high level of service. Kazakhstan has equally become a new place to discover for Malaysians, who can now see the beauty of Zailiyskiy Alatau mountains, enjoy the excitement of mountain-skiing and also be introduced to the culture of the people of Central Asia. And then there is also the option of flying onward with Air Astana aircraft to major cities in Europe.

With the decision to operate the service all year round, passengers have the opportunity to experience comfort and reliability from the heart of Eurasia, flying above the snowy mountains and crystal clear lakes.

Return Fares on the Kuala Lumpur – Almaty route start at 2,600 MYR plus tax for an Economy class seat to 6685 MYR plus tax for a Business class seat. Malaysian nationals travelling to Kazakhstan can obtain a Visit or Business visa by simply presenting a letter of sponsorship from the host organisation or a letter of invitation plus a tour itinerary at the Kazakhstan Embassy in Kuala Lumpur, without the need for referral to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.