Almaty International Airport has welcomed the first-ever direct SunExpress flight from Izmir, marking the launch of a new air route expected to boost tourism, trade, and business ties between Kazakhstan and Türkiye.

The inaugural Izmir-Almaty flight received a festive welcome, with passengers greeted by traditional Kazakh sweets and the aircraft honored with a ceremonial water cannon salute upon arrival, Kazinform reports.

SunExpress will operate the new service twice a week using Boeing 737 aircraft. Flights will depart Izmir on Tuesdays and Fridays, while return services from Almaty will operate on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

The airline's extensive domestic and international network will also allow travelers to connect easily to a wide range of destinations beyond Izmir.

According to Almaty International Airport, the new direct route is expected to expand the city's international connectivity, attract more tourists, strengthen trade and economic cooperation, and deepen business and cultural exchanges between Kazakhstan and Türkiye.