Usharal, KZ 🇰🇿 Small Airport Scheduled Service
ICAO
UAAL
IATA
USJ
Elevation
1288 ft
Region
KZ-JET
Local Time
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Loading...GPS Code: UAAL
Local Code: Not available
Location: 46.190767° N, 80.830922° E
Continent: Asia
Type: Small Airport
Keywords: Enbekshi Airport
Usharal Airport (IATA: USJ, ICAO: UAAL) is a regional airport that serves as the primary air gateway to the popular Lake Alakol resort area in the Zhetysu Region of Kazakhstan. Its main function is to support the country's domestic tourism industry, providing convenient seasonal access for visitors traveling to the lake's therapeutic waters. The airport is located approximately 5 kilometers southwest of the town of Usharal. While close to the town, it is situated a significant distance from the main tourist settlements along the lakeshore; for example, the journey to the popular village of Akshi is about 60-70 kilometers. Travelers typically complete this final leg of their journey via pre-arranged private transfers or local taxis, which takes around an hour.
Originally a Soviet-era airfield, the airport fell into disuse for many years before undergoing a major reconstruction. It was officially reopened for modern passenger aircraft in 2017 as part of a government initiative to boost tourism to Lake Alakol. This revival has been crucial in making the region more accessible. The airport’s operations are almost entirely seasonal, with a flight schedule that is active during the peak summer holiday period, typically from early June to late August. Flights are exclusively domestic, with carriers like SCAT Airlines and Qazaq Air providing connections to major Kazakh cities such as Almaty and Astana (Nur-Sultan).
The airport consists of a single, modern terminal building designed to handle the seasonal influx of passengers. As a small regional facility, its amenities are functional but limited. Inside the terminal, travelers will find check-in desks, a waiting area, and a baggage claim hall. Food and retail options are minimal, often restricted to a small snack bar or vending machines, so visitors should not expect extensive dining or shopping opportunities. For those traveling to Lake Alakol, it is highly advisable to pre-book ground transportation to the resorts, as on-demand services at the airport can be limited upon flight arrival. Arriving 90 minutes before a scheduled departure is generally sufficient time for check-in and security procedures.
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| Destination | IATA | City | Aircraft Type | Airline | Details | Route Map |
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| Airline | Routes | Flights | Destinations | Last Activity |
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SCAT Airlines
VSV
/ DV
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2 | 8 | 2 | Aug 15, 2025 |
| Designation | Length | Width | Surface | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
09/27 |
7546 ft | 144 ft | CON | Active |
| Type | Description | Frequency |
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Private taxis are the primary mode of transportation from Usharal Airport. Drivers typically meet arriving flights. It is highly recommended to pre-arrange a transfer with your hotel or a local tour operator, especially during the peak season for Lake Alakol, to secure a vehicle and agree on a fare in advance.
There are no car rental agencies with service desks located at Usharal Airport. Renting a car is not a common option in this region, and any arrangements would need to be made well in advance with providers in larger cities, as local options are virtually non-existent.
There is no direct public transit, such as scheduled buses or trains, connecting to Usharal Airport. Travelers must rely on taxis or pre-booked private transfers to get to the town of Usharal or the nearby resorts on Lake Alakol.