Fly with Air Astana

Since its maiden flight in 2002, Air Astana has established itself as a key operator in central Eurasia. The national flag carrier of Kazakhstan has proved to be one of the fastest-growing start-up airlines, paralleling the rapid growth of the country as a world destination. Operating out of Almaty International Airport, some 10 miles outside of the largest Kazakh city, the airline is a significant presence in the country's main air hub; it also operates from a secondary base at the new capital city of Astana.

In such a vast country, the operator's domestic flights are a crucial economic link; scheduled services to other main destinations in Central Eurasia -- such as Tashkent in Uzbekistan, Baku in Azerbaijan and the Tajik capital of Dushanbe -- are also part of its offer. However, the airline has been quick to maximise its strategic position in Central Asia between China, Russia and Western Europe, with regular flights to Urumqi and Beijing (only five hours away). Services to Bangkok, Hong Kong and New Delhi have opened up the airline to vast new markets and are seen as a sign of the airline's arrival as one of the key players between Europe and Asia. A fleet based around the Boeing 767 and 757 and the Airbus A320 is designed to handle the impressive distances of its network.

Flying with Air Astana

• In Business Class, travellers on 767 and 757 flights can enjoy fully lie-flat beds, 15-inch screens and stylish travel kits.

• Economy class features a full refreshment service; seatback screens with a range of film, TV and music; and ergonomic seats and pillows.

• On selected flights to and from Western Europe, there's also an Economy Sleeper option with a guaranteed row of three seats plus a pillow and duvet -- so you can properly stretch out.

• The Nomad Club programme for frequent travellers allows fliers to earn four levels of loyalty bonuses. Members benefit from dedicated check-in, lounge access and additional baggage allowance.

Practical information

Online check-in is open from 24 hours before flight time, closing one hour before the scheduled departure slot.

Luggage allowances are as follows:

• On all Economy tickets, passengers have a maximum hold allowance of 20 kg.
• For all Business Class passengers and Economy Sleeper passengers, this rises to 30 kg.
• Hand luggage is subject to a size limit of 56 x 45 x 25 cm.