CFO Ibrahim Canliel to Assume Role of CEO, Ensuring a Smooth Leadership Continuity
The Board of Directors of Air Astana JSC has announced that Peter Foster, Chief Executive Officer and member of the Board, will retire from his position at the end of March 2026. Following his retirement, Mr. Foster will continue to contribute to the Group in the capacity of Senior Advisor to the Board of Directors.
The Board confirmed that Ibrahim Canliel, currently serving as Chief Financial Officer, will be appointed Chief Executive Officer at that time.
Nurlan Zhakupov, Chairman of the Board of Directors, stated:
“The Board of Directors would like to thank Peter Foster for his outstanding achievement in guiding the company for 20 years, from its post start-up phase to its position today as Kazakhstan and Central Asia’s leading airline, and a respected airline brand throughout the global aviation industry.
The Board would also like to welcome Ibrahim Canliel to the position of Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Canliel has worked for the Air Astana Group since 2003, initially in senior commercial roles and subsequently as Chief Financial Officer, a post he has held since 2017. His contribution has been immense, and he brings with him great experience of both the Group and the airline industry. The Board has the fullest confidence that he will guide the company to continued growth and success.”
In a statement, Air Astana expressed its gratitude for Mr. Foster’s exceptional leadership over two decades, during which the airline achieved consistent profitability, expanded its network, and established itself as a regional leader in safety, service quality, and operational excellence.
Mr. Foster, who joined Air Astana in 2005, played a pivotal role in transforming the airline from its early development stage into a globally recognized brand. His vision and leadership have been instrumental in Air Astana’s successful IPO in 2024 and in positioning the company for sustainable growth in the coming decade.
Incoming CEO Ibrahim Canliel commented that he was “deeply honored” by the Board’s trust and looks forward to continuing the company’s growth strategy, focusing on digital transformation, fleet modernization, and operational efficiency.
This leadership transition marks a significant milestone for Air Astana as it enters its next phase of growth, underlining the airline’s commitment to stability, innovation, and strong governance.