Choosing a Flight for Air Freight to Kazakhstan: Aircraft Types and Logistic Routes

Flight Types and Their Impact on Logistics

When organizing international air freight to Kazakhstan through KAZLOGIST.KZ, the choice of a specific flight determines not only the arrival time but also the possibility of loading specific goods. In civil aviation, there are two main types of aircraft: passenger (PAX) and cargo (CAO — Cargo Aircraft Only). It is important for a procurement manager to understand that most scheduled flights are passenger ones. This means the cargo is placed in the belly hold under the deck. The main limitation here is the height of the cargo piece, which usually does not exceed 160 cm. If your equipment or pallet is taller, KAZLOGIST.KZ will offer a cargo aircraft only.

Cargo flights operate with vessels like the Boeing 747-F or Antonov, where loading is carried out through a nose or side ramp. This allows for the transport of oversized structures and dangerous goods (DGR), which are prohibited on passenger liners. However, cargo flights fly less frequently, and the freight cost may be higher due to the lack of passenger traffic subsidizing the flight.

Route Geography and Delivery Times

The KAZLOGIST.KZ logistics chains cover key global hubs. Delivery times depend on flight frequency and route complexity. Usually, estimated times are as follows:

• Europe → Kazakhstan: 3–5 days. Main hubs include Frankfurt, Istanbul, and Vienna.
• China and Asia → Kazakhstan: 3–6 days. Main departure points are Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Guangzhou.
• Middle East → Kazakhstan: 2–4 days. Flights via Dubai and Doha are frequently used.
• USA → Kazakhstan: 5–8 days. Cargo often transits through major European airports.

For mission-critical shipments, such as spare parts for a downed production line, KAZLOGIST.KZ organizes urgent shipments in 2–3 days, provided there is space on the nearest flight. It should be noted that the timeframe is calculated from the moment the cargo leaves the shipper's warehouse until it arrives at the destination airport. Door-to-door delivery in Kazakhstan usually adds another +1 day to the total schedule.

Direct Flights vs. Transit Hubs

A direct flight represents the minimum risk of cargo damage, as additional loading and unloading operations at transit airports are excluded. However, direct cargo flights to all cities in Kazakhstan may not be available. In such cases, KAZLOGIST.KZ builds a route through transit hubs. For example, cargo from the USA may fly to Istanbul or Luxembourg, undergo terminal handling there, and be reloaded onto a flight to Almaty. This is a standard practice that allows for cost optimization without significant loss of time.

During transit, the coordination of agents' actions is crucial. KAZLOGIST.KZ monitors every stage: from picking up the cargo from the supplier to confirming the booking on the connecting flight. We check the document package (invoice, packing list, AWB) even before departure from the country of origin to avoid delays in transit zones.

Specific Cargo on Regular Flights

Not every product can be placed on the first available flight. There are categories that require a special approach:

• Dangerous Goods (DGR): Lithium batteries, aerosols, chemicals. These require a Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), special UN-packaging, and verification of acceptance by a specific aircraft type.
• Temperature-Controlled Cargo: Pharmaceuticals or cosmetics. These require the use of thermal containers and loggers. KAZLOGIST.KZ selects flights with minimal apron wait times to maintain the temperature regime.
• Oversized Cargo: If the cargo does not fit through a standard hatch due to its dimensions, a wide-body aircraft is selected.

For unique tasks where deadlines are more important than cost, we offer individual solutions: charter flights or hand-carry service (on-board courier delivery), which is relevant for transporting valuable small-sized cargo or urgent product samples.

Cost Calculation and Space Booking

Airlines sell space on a flight based on "chargeable weight." This is the greater of the actual weight and the volumetric weight. The formula for volumetric weight is: length × width × height (cm) / 6000. If you are transporting light but bulky goods, the cost will be calculated by volume.

The final price formed by KAZLOGIST.KZ includes: the rate per kg, fuel surcharge, security fee, terminal handling at the airport, issuance of the Air Waybill (AWB), and export declaration. The exact price depends on many factors, including the type of cargo and current flight load. During business hours, managers provide a calculation within an hour, offering the optimal option in terms of price and speed.

To start, we will need data on the weight, dimensions, and nature of the cargo. KAZLOGIST.KZ specialists will check the documents, assist with export clearance, and ensure control at all stages of transportation. If you require a cost calculation for air freight for your current or future contract, you are welcome to contact us for a consultation.