Munich Airport Expands to Kazakhstan with New Route to Shymkent
Munich Airport has launched a new route to Shymkent, Kazakhstan, marking a significant expansion of its international network. The twice-weekly flights, operated by SCAT Airlines, commenced on May 27, 2025, and aim to strengthen economic and tourist ties between Europe and Kazakhstan.
The new route connects Munich with Shymkent Airport (IATA code: CIT), which has recently undergone modernization and opened a new terminal in 2023. This development has transformed Shymkent into an international hub, offering comfortable transfer connections.
Thomas Kube, Head of Route and Passenger Development at Munich Airport GmbH, views this connection as a strategic move to bolster Munich's presence in Central Asia and underscore the region's growing importance in global aviation. The inaugural flight on Tuesday was celebrated with a water salute and gingerbread hearts for guests.
SCAT Airlines now offers regular flights from Munich to Shymkent, departing on Tuesdays at 11:35 AM and Thursdays at 9:30 AM, with a flight duration of approximately six hours. This new connection aligns with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's recommendation to prioritize airport infrastructure development and international flight networks.