Shymkent International Airport deployed a unified digital ecosystem linking check-in, security, gates, baggage operations, and live operational monitoring to scale terminal operations.
In December 2024, the airport opened a new 40,000 m² terminal. Beyond space, coordination across processing points was key. Instead of layering standalone systems onto the expanded terminal, the airport implemented one integrated platform to manage operations end to end.
The Challenge
With expected passenger growth, Shymkent International Airport opened a new terminal to increase capacity. However, delivering a consistent passenger experience at higher volumes required better coordination across the journey.
The Solution
Shymkent International Airport expanded its capacity through a fully integrated digital ecosystem linking check-in, security, gates, and operational monitoring, all delivered under a single contract. This approach simplifies coordination across teams, supports growing passenger volumes, and optimizes terminal space.
The Results
The integrated SITA digital ecosystem supports coordinated passenger processing across all touchpoints, improving operational visibility and use of terminal space while reducing waiting times and operating costs.
The Challenge
Growth requires more than physical infrastructure
As activity across the then existing terminal increased, pressure surfaced at key touchpoints. Check-in counters filled during peak periods, and baggage drop queues began to form even when capacity was available elsewhere. Security and gate teams often worked without a shared view of operations across the airport.
Without alignment between systems, staff had to respond manually to congestion and imbalances, increasing operational costs. Longer waits also affected passenger comfort and the overall travel experience.
Recognizing this common industry challenge, Shymkent International Airport opened a new terminal to increase capacity. However, system alignment remained a clear priority. As a key aviation gateway in southern Kazakhstan and a growing hub for SCAT Airlines, the new terminal needed to maintain consistent operations across all touchpoints to handle both current demand and future growth.
The Solution
One ecosystem fully connected
Shymkent International Airport expanded its capacity with a new 40,000 m² terminal, supported by a unified digital ecosystem connecting check-in, security, baggage, and boarding across the terminal.
The solution includes several key components that support these capabilities. Common-use check-in is managed through SITA Flex, while SITA Passenger Intelligent Validation checks boarding passes and allows passengers to access the airside via eGates, either via self-service or manual processing. Passenger processing is delivered through SITA Smart Path Gates, which automate checks at key touchpoints. This reduces manual checks and helps speed up passenger flow.
In addition, the SITA Information Display System provides real-time flight information and targeted messaging throughout the terminal, so passengers receive timely and accurate updates.
Building on this platform, the next stop will be SITA Smart Path Bag Drop, which will offer new service options for passengers by allowing drop off baggage independently at additional touchpoints, without agent assistance. This will further extend the benefits of the connected system.
The Results
Efficiency across the entire passenger journey
SITA’s digital ecosystem delivers measurable improvements across the passenger journey. Automated processing reduces manual steps and improves coordination between check-in, security, gates, and baggage.
Terminal space is used more efficiently, and operations can handle higher traffic without adding staff or complexity. Real-time visibility gives airlines and airport teams the information they need to make faster, better-informed decisions, strengthening resilience and supporting growth without proportional increases in cost or complexity.
"Leveraging SITA's global expertise is a key step in supporting growth and introducing the latest technologies at Shymkent International Airport. This strategic launch reflects our commitment to quality and to providing optimal conditions for comfortable, efficient, and environmentally friendly air travel. Passengers can now move easily through every stage of the journey – from baggage check-in and registration to boarding– saving up to 50% of the time spent on formalities through advanced digital solutions."
Vladimir Denisov, President of SCAT Airlines
Looking Ahead
With its integrated digital ecosystem in place, Shymkent International Airport can support future passenger growth and airline expansion without redesigning core processes.
The unified system allows additional capacity, automation, and new passenger touchpoints to be added within the same operational framework.
Future enhancements such as expanded biometric processing or additional self-service capabilities can be deployed as extensions of the existing platform rather than standalone systems.
By linking digital infrastructure with coordinated digital operations, the airport has established a repeatable model for scaling performance as demand increases.
About Shymkent International Airport
Shymkent International Airport serves as a key aviation gateway in southern Kazakhstan. The new passenger terminal, opened on 25 December 2024, spans approximately 40,000 square meters and forms the basis of a modern transport hub. The airport supports domestic and international connectivity and plays an important role in the development of regional and international air travel, including operations by SCAT Airlines across more than 100 routes.