Airport
Shymkent International Airport (CIT)
Shymkent International Airport is the main gateway to southern Kazakhstan and the city of Shymkent. Compare transfer options to the city centre, Sayram, Turkestan and nearby areas, and plan your onward journey with ease.
Passengers
Luggage
About Shymkent International Airport
Shymkent International Airport serves Shymkent and southern Kazakhstan as one of the country's main aviation hubs and a base for SCAT Airlines. Its history dates back to an agricultural airbase founded in 1932; the airport moved to its present location in 1963, and a passenger terminal opened in 1967.
Today the airport operates two passenger terminals alongside a single 3,300-metre runway. The modern Terminal A, opened in 2021, handles most scheduled domestic and international traffic, while the older terminal remains adjacent. This expansion brought additional capacity and modern passenger handling to the airport.
Located about 12 km from central Shymkent, the airport is connected to the city by buses 12, 12A and 12B, taxis, ride-hailing services, private transfers and rental cars. The drive to the city centre normally takes around 20–25 minutes.
With cafés, shops, a lounge, free Wi-Fi and other passenger services, the airport functions as a practical gateway for domestic routes and international connections across Central Asia and beyond.
Terminal Overview
Terminals
Shymkent International Airport has two passenger terminals. Terminal A, opened in 2021, is the modern main terminal and handles most scheduled domestic and international traffic, while the older terminal building remains adjacent.
Ground Transportation Services to and from Shymkent International Airport
Transfers
Book private transfers from Shymkent International Airport to hotels, the city centre and destinations across southern Kazakhstan.
Hourly Chauffeur
Arrange a professional chauffeur by the hour for flexible travel from CIT, business meetings, events or journeys around Shymkent.
Car Rental
Rent a car from Shymkent International Airport for independent travel around Shymkent and onward journeys to nearby destinations.
Bus & Group Transfers
Organize minibuses or charter buses for groups travelling between CIT, hotels, event venues and other destinations in southern Kazakhstan.
Frequently Asked Questions
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