The evaluation of the airport efficiency under the public-private partnership contracts in Kazakhstan

This study evaluates the operational efficiency of the airports under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) contracts in Kazakhstan. With the increasing global adoption of PPP models in airport management, Kazakhstan has implemented this approach to modernize its infrastructure, attract new investment and improve service quality. Using a combination of data envelopment analysis and qualitative analysis, this study compares the efficiency of the airports managed under PPP framework with those managed under public ownership. The results indicate that PPPs can lead to significant improvements in operational efficiency, infrastructure investment, and user satisfaction when it is properly structured and regulated in a transparent way. The findings also suggest that PPP-managed airports demonstrate improved efficiency, though challenges remain in regulatory oversight, risk-sharing, and alignment of the public and private interests. The study provides valuable insights for policymakers to enhance the effectiveness of PPPs in Kazakhstan's aviation sector and other emerging markets pursuing similar models.