Eastar Jet (ZE) resumes Busan (PUS) - Almaty (ALA) service

Eastar Jet has officially resumed service between Busan and Almaty, restoring the air link after a suspension that had been in place since 5 December 2025. The return of this route not only adds another nonstop travel option between South Korea and Kazakhstan, but also sends a positive signal about the recovery of demand for tourism, trade and regional connectivity.

The relaunch of service between South Korea’s largest southern port city and one of Central Asia’s most dynamic urban centers carries significance well beyond a single route. Busan is a vibrant maritime gateway known for industry, logistics and coastal tourism, while Almaty serves as Kazakhstan’s economic, financial and cultural hub, where modern urban life meets the heritage of the vast steppe. With no competing operator currently in the market, Eastar Jet holds a first-mover advantage through its exclusive nonstop service, substantially reducing journey times and strengthening the route’s appeal for both business and leisure travelers.

The route is operated with two weekly round trips using Boeing 737-800 aircraft. The streamlined, nonstop and consistent operating pattern underscores the airline’s strategy of deepening connectivity in high-potential niche markets.

Busan is a city of expansive beaches, bustling seafood markets and a compelling urban rhythm shaped by the sea. From the artistic hillside lanes of Gamcheon Culture Village to the illuminated nightscape along Haeundae Beach, the city balances modern energy with a strong local identity. From Busan, travelers can also easily reach nearby Gyeongju, home to UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic sites that preserve the legacy of the Silla Kingdom through ancient temples, royal tombs and distinctive Buddhist remains.

Almaty stands out for its tree-lined boulevards, elegant cafés and the dramatic mountain backdrop of the Tian Shan range. It is an ideal starting point for experiencing the cultural depth of Central Asia, from nomadic cuisine to colorful traditional bazaars. Not far from the city lies the Tamgaly archaeological landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring thousands of petroglyphs that reflect the spiritual life and artistic expression of ancient communities across the Kazakh steppe.