Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport (NQZ)

Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport (NQZ), serving Astana, the capital of Kazakhstan, maintains a policy that accommodates smokers through designated areas both before and after security checkpoints. This approach allows travelers to smoke without fully exiting the airport premises once they have passed through security, which is a convenience not offered at all international airports. The airport's policy reflects a balance between public health considerations and the needs of its smoking passengers, providing specific, marked locations for tobacco consumption. Before proceeding through security, passengers will find that smoking is strictly limited to designated outdoor areas. These zones are typically located outside the main terminal buildings, easily accessible to the public. Travelers are advised to look for clear signage indicating these permitted smoking spots before entering the terminal or after exiting upon arrival. This ensures that the indoor air quality remains uncompromised for all passengers and staff, aligning with common international airport regulations regarding smoking within enclosed public spaces. For those who have already cleared security, Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport offers smoking facilities within both its Terminal 1 (International) and Terminal 2 (Domestic). In Terminal 1, an update from June 2021 by a traveler named Drgotzi reported a smoking room situated right behind the large stairs leading to the upper floor, approximately in the middle of the terminal. This room was described as very basic, lacking seating and windows, suggesting a functional rather than comfortable environment. Similarly, Terminal 2 provides a smoking area on its second floor, specifically within the departure area. While details about the amenities of the Terminal 2 smoking area are less specific, it is understood to be an enclosed, designated space. Travelers planning to smoke at NQZ should be prepared for potentially basic facilities, especially in the post-security smoking rooms. It is always recommended to locate these areas upon arrival or after security clearance to avoid any last-minute rush. While the airport provides these facilities, it's important to adhere to all local regulations and airport signage regarding smoking. Vaping policy is not explicitly stated, so it's best to assume it falls under the general smoking restrictions unless otherwise indicated by official airport signage. The presence of these dedicated areas ensures that smokers have options, making the travel experience at NQZ more accommodating.