Kazakhstan's Criminal Code sets prison terms for aircraft hijacking

September 6, 2026 at 08:48 AM2 min

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Aircraft hijacking in Kazakhstan carries criminal liability under Article 270 of the Criminal Code, with imprisonment and stricter penalties for aggravating circumstances. The Civil Aviation Committee said unauthorized seizure can also trigger administrative and civil liability. Separate penalties apply for flying while intoxicated or entering restricted airspace.

Key Facts

Article 270 of Kazakhstan's Criminal Code sets imprisonment for hijacking or seizing an aircraft, with substantially stricter liability when aggravating circumstances are present.
Flying an aircraft while intoxicated carries a fine of up to 200 MCI, equivalent to 865,000 tenge in 2026, under Article 358 of the Criminal Code.
Alternative penalties for intoxicated flying include up to 200 hours of community service or arrest for up to 50 days, plus a possible two-year ban on holding certain positions.
Flying without permission over a restricted or prohibited zone is punishable under Article 563 of the Administrative Offenses Code with a fine of 10 MCI for individuals and 20 MCI for officials.

Hijacking Liability

The Civil Aviation Committee of Kazakhstan stated that hijacking an aircraft, or seizing it for the purpose of hijacking, is a criminal offense under Article 270 of the Criminal Code. The offense carries a penalty of imprisonment, and liability becomes substantially stricter when qualifying circumstances are present. Law enforcement agencies and the court make the final qualification of the offender's actions, taking into account all circumstances of the specific incident. Unauthorized seizure of an aircraft and its use can lead to criminal, administrative, and civil liability depending on the circumstances.

Intoxicated Flying Penalties

Kazakhstan prohibits persons involved in flight operations, aircraft maintenance, and air traffic control from performing duties while under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or toxic substances. The ban is set out in paragraph 10 of Article 54 of the Law on the Use of Airspace of the Republic of Kazakhstan and Aviation Activities. Article 358 of the Criminal Code imposes a fine of up to 200 MCI for operating an aircraft while intoxicated, which amounts to 865,000 tenge in 2026. Courts may instead impose up to 200 hours of community service, arrest for up to 50 days, or a ban on holding certain positions for up to two years.

Restricted Airspace Violations

Flying without the required permission over a prohibited zone or a flight restriction zone is an administrative offense in Kazakhstan. Article 563 of the Code of Administrative Offenses sets a fine of 10 MCI for individuals and 20 MCI for officials.