Air Astana increased its operating profit by 115 per cent to $23.9 million in the first half of 2015.

Net profit was $8.3 million, versus a loss of $36.4 million in the first half of 2014 – largely the result of a book loss following a local currency devaluation.

At the same time passenger numbers increased by four per cent to 1.82 million.

Total revenue was however lower by nine per cent.

Commenting on the result, Air Astana president Peter Foster stated: “While regional markets remain sluggish due to currency weakness and falling commodity prices, cheaper fuel and other cost-saving measures have combined to produce a fair result.

“We continue to expand and have recently added routes from Astana to Paris, Seoul, Bangkok and Tbilisi.

“We do not expect 2015 to be a stellar year, however our low unit cost and expanded network will allow us to take full advantage of market recovery when it comes.”   

Air Astana recently concluded an agreement with Air Lease Corporation for seven Airbus 320 family NEOs, including four A321 Long Range aircraft, to be delivered from 2016.

Air Astana commenced regular flight operations in May, 2002 and currently operates a network of 64 routes between 39 international and domestic destinations. 

The carrier operates a fleet of 30 aircraft including three Boeing 767-300ER, five Boeing 757-200, thirteen Airbus A320 family aircraft and nine Embraer E-190.