New head of Kazakhstan’s Aviation Administration appointed, focus on direct US flights

Tengrinews.kz — Michael Daniel has been appointed as the new head of the Aviation Administration of Kazakhstan, Tengri Travel reports.
Details
According to the Civil Aviation Committee, Michael Daniel assumed the position of Chief Executive Officer of the Aviation Administration of Kazakhstan on May 4.
Michael Daniel has a spesialized aviation education, having graduated from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (USA) with a degree in aeronautics. He has more than 40 years of experience in civil aviation.

“One of the main tasks of the new head will be the launch of direct flights from Kazakhstan to the United States,” the committee said.

Background
He began his professional career at the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), where he held key positions, including flight operations inspector, aircraft certification specialist, and safety manager. He worked in international FAA offices, including heading offices in Singapore and Beijing (2006–2009), overseeing foreign repair stations and conducting safety assessments. He also led international initiatives, including the APEC Transportation Security and Aviation Working Group, and cooperated with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
Flights from Kazakhstan to New York
Kazakhstanis have been waiting for several years for direct flights to New York (USA). The committee also commented on the current status of launching such a route.

“In order to operate flights to the United States, it is necessary to obtain CAT1 status under the Federal Aviation Administration program. Work is currently underway to obtain this category. At the same time, to successfully pass the technical safety assessment in Kazakhstan, the delivery of Boeing 787-9 aircraft to the Air Astana fleet is expected by the end of this year,” the agency said.

Earlier, Vice Minister of Transport Maksat Kaliakparov stated that all necessary documentation from the ministry’s side is ready.

“There is a relevant instruction from the prime minister. We are waiting for Boeing,” he said.

When asked whether the New York route could be launched by the end of the year if aircraft for Japan arrive in autumn, Kaliakparov answered affirmatively.
It was previously reported that the launch of direct flights to New York has been under discussion for several years. In August 2025, the Ministry of Transport stated that opening direct flights to the United States requires the delivery of a Boeing aircraft for Air Astana, and the delivery date of the first aircraft was postponed by the manufacturer to July 2026.
Thus, the exact timeline for launching the route has not yet been determined.
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