Hong Kong Airlines has signed a codeshare agreement with Air Astana, allowing its customers the chance to travel to Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan, with the flag carrier of the country in Central Asia.

“We are delighted to start our partnership with Air Astana to extend our network further to Almaty, the trading and cultural hub of Kazakhstan,” says CCO of Hong Kong Airlines Li Dianchun. “This marks Hong Kong Airlines’ another step to Central Asia, and is also our first codeshare agreement in 2016. The two airlines have a lot in common, for example, both are young and committed to delivering quality products and service as Skytrax four-star airlines. I believe our passengers will enjoy the distinguished service provided by Air Astana.”

Air Astana operates services to Hong Kong twice per week on every Tuesday and Friday with a Boeing 757, which is configured with 16 business class and 150 economy class seats. The flight time from Hong Kong to Almaty is 7 hours 15 minutes.

“The codeshare agreement marks the strengthening of the link between Hong Kong and Kazakhstan, a route established in 2012,” says Ibrahim Canliel, senior vice president for marketing and sales of Air Astana. “We are pleased to offer Hong Kong Airlines and their customers an enhanced network to Kazakhstan and our beyond network in Central Asia, Russia and Europe.” www.hongkongairlines.com