Kazakhstan’s Emergency Services Receive Their First L-410NG Aircraft

Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Emergency Situations (MES) has received its first L-410NG turboprop aircraft as part of an order for four units. The aircraft has been added to the fleet of KazAviaSpas, a subdivision of the ministry, and will be utilized for aerial monitoring, transportation of humanitarian cargo and personnel, as well as medical evacuation operations.

Growing L-410NG Presence in Central Asia and Caucasus

With this acquisition, the number of L-410 operators in the Central Asia and Caucasus region has increased to five. In Kazakhstan, the aircraft is also used by the Air Defense Forces and Zhetysu Airlines, while regional carrier AK-AIR operates it in Georgia, and Silk Avia utilizes it in Uzbekistan. Additionally, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, and Georgia are considering the aircraft for the development of regional air routes.

L-410NG Capabilities and Deployment in Kazakhstan

The L-410NG is a twin-engine turboprop designed for operations on short and unpaved runways, requiring a minimum of 500 meters for takeoff and landing. It has a maximum capacity of 19 passengers or 1,800 kg of cargo and a flight range of up to 2,100 km.

Kazakhstan finalized the agreement with Czech manufacturer LET Aircraft Industries (Omnipol Group) in March 2024. Prior to the aircraft’s deployment, Kazakh pilots completed specialized training in piloting and maintenance at an aviation training center in Prague.

Future Plans for KazAviaSpas

According to Major General Chingis Arinov, Minister of Emergency Situations, the addition of the L-410NG will enhance the ministry’s ability to deliver emergency personnel, equipment, and humanitarian aid to remote areas. The MES has initiated a program to establish 20 aviation units within KazAviaSpas, ensuring nationwide coverage based on a north-south, west-east strategy.

Previously, the ministry’s aviation capabilities were limited to Airbus H145 helicopters. The introduction of fixed-wing aircraft is expected to strengthen emergency response capacity across Kazakhstan.