Kazakhstan will launch direct air services to the United States in 2026 following the delivery of Boeing 787 Dreamliners to Air Astana. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev announced the agreement during his working visit to Washington, reported Astana's Qazinform.

Tokayev met Boeing executives and welcomed the deal for new aircraft, noting that carriers Air Astana, SCAT and Vietjet Qazaqstan are pursuing joint projects to strengthen the nation''viation industry. The deliveries are expected in the second half of the year.

SCAT Airlines also plans to purchase additional Boeing aircraft and is considering opening its first maintenance, repair and overhaul centre at Shymkent Airport in partnership with the US manufacturer.

Boeing's Jeff Shockey outlined the company's digitalisation plans and praised Kazakhstan's transit and transport potential. He said there is significant scope for cooperation in the air freight sector.

The meeting also covered training of domestic aviation specialists and prospects for expanding Kazakhstan's cargo aircraft fleet, underscoring the broader partnership between Boeing and the country's airlines.