Tokayev orders study of new Ekibastuz airport construction
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President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has ordered the government to study the construction of a new airport in Ekibastuz, a city in Pavlodar region. The directive was issued during a meeting on regional development on May 22. The existing airport in Ekibastuz has been non-operational for years.
The Directive
President Tokayev instructed the government to study the feasibility of building a new airport in Ekibastuz, a city of about 130,000 people in Pavlodar region. The order came during a May 22 meeting on regional development, according to Forbes Kazakhstan. The existing airport has been closed since the early 2000s.
Regional Context
Ekibastuz is a major coal mining and power generation hub, hosting the Ekibastuz GRES-1 and GRES-2 power plants. The city lacks direct air connectivity, with the nearest operational airports in Pavlodar (130 km) and Astana (300 km). A new airport could boost investment and tourism in the region.
What's Next
The government is expected to present a feasibility study within six months. It remains unclear whether the project will secure funding or face delays due to budget constraints.
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Tokayev orders study of new Ekibastuz airport construction
