KrasAvia

KrasAvia stands as a vital bridge across the vast expanses of Siberia, ensuring connectivity where roads often end and the wilderness begins. Based in the heart of Russia, this regional carrier specializes in linking remote communities with major urban centers, offering essential travel solutions for both locals and intrepid adventurers. With a strong focus on operational reliability in challenging northern climates, KrasAvia provides a unique gateway to explore the rugged beauty and untouched landscapes of the Krasnoyarsk Territory and beyond.

Connecting the Heart of Siberia

KrasAvia operates with a clear mission to maintain social and economic ties within one of the largest regions in the world. Its network is designed to serve destinations that are often inaccessible by other means of transport. Travelers can fly from the main hub to key regional cities such as Tomsk, Barnaul, and the scenic Gorno-Altaysk. The airline also facilitates travel to industrial and cultural centers like Kemerovo, Ufa, and Ulan-Ude, making it a convenient option for exploring the diversity of the area.

Versatile Fleet and Modernization

To navigate the varied terrain and weather conditions of Siberia, KrasAvia utilizes a diverse mixed fleet. This includes robust Soviet-designed aircraft like the Antonov An-24 and An-26, known for their ability to land on unpaved runways, as well as helicopters for the most remote locations. In recent years, the airline has actively modernized its operations by integrating newer ATR-72 and ATR-42 aircraft, enhancing passenger comfort and environmental efficiency on its scheduled routes.

Commitment to Safety and Community

As a state-owned enterprise of the Krasnoyarsk Krai, KrasAvia prioritizes safety and social responsibility over pure profit. The airline plays a crucial role in "Northern delivery" missions and medical flights, underlining its commitment to the well-being of the region's inhabitants. For tourists, this dedication translates into a reliable service managed by pilots with extensive experience in navigating the specific and often demanding flight conditions of the Far North.

Contacting KrasAvia from the United Arab Emirates

Travelers based in the United Arab Emirates should note that KrasAvia does not currently maintain a local representative office or a dedicated customer service line within the region. As a regional carrier headquartered in Siberia, all inquiries regarding bookings, schedules, and services are handled directly through their central offices in Russia. It is recommended to use email for non-urgent communication or be prepared for international calling rates when contacting the support center.

Official Website

For the most up-to-date flight schedules and news, visit the airline's official online portal:

• Official Website: krasavia.ru

Contact Information

Since there are no local branches in the UAE, please use the following international contact details to reach the airline's headquarters:

• Customer Service & Booking (International): +7 (391) 291-81-80
• Main Email: info@krasavia.ru
• Ticket Inquiries Email: ticket@krasavia.ru
• Mobile App: Currently, the airline does not offer a dedicated mobile application for global markets; travelers are advised to manage bookings via the official website.

Social Media

You can also follow KrasAvia on their official social media channels for updates, though content is primarily in Russian:

• VKontakte
• Telegram

Local Offices in United Arab Emirates

• General Status: There are currently no operational ticket offices or airport desks for KrasAvia in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or other Emirates.
• Recommendation: All administrative matters must be resolved through the central office in Krasnoyarsk.

Customer Support Availability

• Operating Hours: The contact center typically operates from 07:00 to 21:00 (Krasnoyarsk time).
• Language: Please be aware that support is primarily provided in Russian. It is advisable to send detailed inquiries via email if you require assistance in English.

To ensure a smooth journey across Siberia with KrasAvia, it is essential to understand the specific baggage allowances, which can vary significantly depending on your fare class and the type of aircraft operating your route. Given the regional nature of the airline and the diverse fleet—ranging from modern ATRs to robust Soviet-era planes—packing guidelines are strictly enforced to ensure safety and comfort.

Carry-On Baggage Allowances

For most flights, every passenger is entitled to bring one piece of hand luggage into the cabin. The allowance depends on your ticket tariff and the aircraft type:

• Standard Allowance: Typically 5 kg with maximum dimensions of 55 x 40 x 20 cm.
• Optimum Fare: On certain routes and fares, the allowance may increase to 10 kg (please verify your specific ticket details).
• Small Aircraft (L-410): Due to limited cabin space, the limit is strictly 5 kg with smaller dimensions of 30 x 25 x 25 cm.

In addition to your main carry-on, you are permitted to bring personal items free of charge, provided they are not used to transport cargo. These include a handbag, briefcase, or backpack (max 3 kg, dimensions up to 40 x 30 x 20 cm), outerwear, a suit in a garment bag, and essential items like baby food or crutches.

Checked Baggage Limits

KrasAvia operates a "Piece Concept" for checked luggage, where allowances are defined by the fare family you have purchased. It is crucial to select the right fare if you plan to travel with heavy equipment.

• Light Fare: Designed for light travelers, this fare includes no free checked baggage.
• Standard Fare: Includes 1 piece of luggage weighing up to 10 kg.
• Optimum Fare: The most flexible option, including 1 piece of luggage weighing up to 20 kg.

The sum of three dimensions (length + width + height) for any checked bag must not exceed 203 cm. If you are traveling as a family or group on the same booking, you may request to combine your weight allowances; however, a single piece of combined luggage must never exceed 30 kg.

Excess Baggage Fees

If your luggage exceeds the free allowance in weight, size, or number of pieces, additional fees will apply. These are charged based on current rates, which can vary by route (e.g., flights departing from Krasnoyarsk to remote northern locations may have different rates than interregional flights). It is highly recommended to pay for excess baggage in advance through the airline's website or booking office, as airport rates are typically higher.

Special Items and Sports Equipment

Exploring the vast landscapes of Siberia often requires special gear. KrasAvia has specific policies for transporting such items:

• Ski and Snowboard Equipment: On "Optimum" fares and during the winter season (typically October to April), one set of ski or snowboard equipment (up to 20 kg) may be carried free of charge. This is in addition to your main luggage allowance but must be booked in advance.
• Bicycles and Fishing Gear: These are generally treated as standard baggage. If they exceed your weight or size allowance, excess baggage fees apply.
• Weapons: Given the popularity of hunting in the region, the airline permits the transport of hunting weapons for a fee, subject to strict security regulations. They must be unloaded, encased, and declared at check-in.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

For safety, the following items are strictly prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage: explosives, fireworks, compressed gases, flammable liquids, and toxic substances. Lithium batteries must be carried in your hand luggage and not in checked bags. Liquids in carry-on must follow the standard international rule: containers of 100 ml or less, packed in a single transparent, re-sealable plastic bag.

Tips for Packing Efficiently

When flying on smaller regional aircraft like the An-24 or L-410, storage compartments can be irregularly shaped. Soft-sided duffel bags or backpacks are often easier to stow than rigid hard-shell suitcases. Always dress for the tarmac, as you may walk outside to board the aircraft. If you are traveling with skis to Gorno-Altaysk or bringing extra gear for a trip to Tomsk, contact the airline at least 48 hours in advance to ensure there is space in the cargo hold.

KrasAvia understands that pets are part of the family and offers services to ensure they can travel with you across the Siberian regions. Whether you are flying for a vacation or relocation, the airline accommodates domestic animals with specific guidelines designed for their safety and the comfort of all passengers.

Transport Options

In cabin (carry-on)

• Carrier dimensions: Generally limited to 55×40×20 cm to fit under the seat.
• Maximum pet weight: Up to 8 kg (including the weight of the carrier).
• Allowed pet types: primarily domestic cats and dogs.
• Conditions: The pet must remain inside the carrier for the entire duration of the flight.
• Limit per passenger: Typically one carrier per adult passenger.

In cargo hold (checked baggage)

• Container requirements: A rigid, impact-resistant crate with a waterproof bottom and secure metal lock.
• Size rules: The container must be spacious enough for the animal to stand up, turn around, and lie down naturally.
• Weight limits: Animals weighing more than 8 kg must be transported in the hold.
• Safety: The bottom of the container should be covered with absorbent material.

As cargo (for large animals)

• When required: For very large animals, unaccompanied pets, or commercial shipments.
• Booking procedure: This service must be arranged separately through the cargo terminal, not the passenger ticket counter.
• Special requirements: Requires specific air waybills and reinforced heavy-duty crates.

Required Documentation

• Veterinary Passport: Must include the pet’s details and owner information.
• Health Certificate: Veterinary Form No. 1 (for domestic travel within Russia), issued no earlier than 5 days before the flight.
• Vaccinations: A valid rabies vaccination record (administered at least 21 days before travel but not more than one year).
• International Certificates: Required if the flight involves crossing international borders.

Service Costs

• Not included in free allowance: Pets are always charged as excess baggage or a special service category.
• In-cabin fee: Charged as a fixed rate or by weight, depending on the fare rules.
• Cargo hold fee: Calculated based on the total weight of the animal and the container.
• Variation: Prices vary significantly by route length and destination (e.g., flights from Krasnoyarsk to remote northern villages may have different rates).

Preparation Tips

• Carrier requirements: Ensure the carrier is well-ventilated and secure; soft carriers are often preferred for cabin travel if they maintain shape.
• Acclimatization: Let your pet spend time in the carrier a few days before the trip to reduce anxiety.
• Feeding: Avoid feeding the animal a heavy meal 2–4 hours before departure to prevent motion sickness.
• Hydration: Offer water before the flight, but ensure the container is dry during transport.

Restrictions

• Prohibited animals: Wild animals, rodents, reptiles, and arthropods are generally not accepted.
• Health status: Sick animals or those in late stages of pregnancy may be refused boarding.
• Breeds: Consult the airline regarding brachycephalic (short-snouted) dogs like Pugs or Bulldogs, as they are prone to breathing difficulties at altitude.
• Exceptions: Guide dogs accompanying passengers with disabilities may travel free of charge in the cabin, provided they are muzzled and leashed.

Important: Space for animals is strictly limited on each aircraft type. You must contact KrasAvia or your booking agent at least 48 hours in advance to reserve a spot for your pet.

Loyalty Program

Introduction

KrasAvia (KV) currently focuses on providing accessible and subsidized air travel across the Siberian regions rather than operating a traditional, mileage-based loyalty program for international tourists. The airline prioritizes keeping fares affordable and maintaining vital connections between Krasnoyarsk and remote communities. While you will not find a complex frequent flyer scheme here, the streamlined service ensures that every passenger receives the same high standard of care and reliability.

Membership Tiers

Unlike major international carriers, KrasAvia does not categorize its passengers into elite status levels. The service model is designed to be egalitarian and efficient:

• Standard Guest: Every traveler is treated with equal importance, enjoying the same baggage allowances and onboard service standards regardless of flight frequency.
• Social Programs (Local Residents): The airline operates specific subsidy programs (such as "Northern Residency") strictly for local inhabitants of the Far North, but these do not apply to international visitors or tourists.

Earning Miles/Points

Travelers flying with KrasAvia should be aware that there is no mechanism to accrue miles or points for flights, regardless of the distance flown or ticket price.

• Flights: No miles are awarded for segments flown, even on longer routes like those to Ufa or Ulan-Ude.
• Partners: There are currently no partnerships with hotels, car rental agencies, or banks that allow for point accumulation.
• Credit Cards: The airline does not have co-branded credit cards for earning rewards.

Redeeming Miles

Since points are not collected, there are no redemption options available within the KrasAvia system. Travelers should plan their trips based on standard fare availability.

• Award Flights: All seats must be purchased at the prevailing market or subsidized rate.
• Upgrades: Upgrades to higher booking classes (if available) are handled via direct payment rather than point exchange.

Alliance Membership

KrasAvia operates as an independent regional carrier and is not a member of any global airline alliance.

• Status: Non-aligned / Independent.
• Interline Partners: While it cooperates with other Russian carriers for baggage transfer on certain routes, it does not share loyalty benefits with alliances like Star Alliance, SkyTeam, or oneworld.

How to Join

Because there is no frequent flyer club to join, travelers do not need to fill out registration forms or carry a membership card.

• Instant Access: Simply book your ticket via the official website or a travel agent to enjoy the airline's services immediately.
• Corporate Clients: Companies planning regular travel for employees may contact the airline directly to discuss corporate agreements, though this is separate from a consumer loyalty program.

Service Classes and Cabin Comfort

KrasAvia operates as a regional carrier with a specific focus on connecting Krasnoyarsk with remote communities and neighboring regional centers. Due to the nature of its fleet—comprising both modern ATR turboprops and robust Soviet-era aircraft—the airline primarily offers a single-class service structure. The experience is designed to be practical and efficient, ensuring vital connectivity across Siberia rather than luxury travel.

Economy Class

The vast majority of KrasAvia flights operate with an all-Economy cabin configuration. Passengers can expect a straightforward and reliable service tailored to short and medium-haul regional routes.

• Seating: On the modern ATR-72 and ATR-42 aircraft, seats are arranged in a standard 2-2 configuration, offering reasonable legroom and modern ergonomics suitable for flights of 1 to 3 hours.
• Vintage Experience: For those traveling to harder-to-reach destinations like Tomsk or on routes utilizing the Antonov An-24 and An-26, the interior offers a more classic aviation experience. While the cabins are older, they are maintained to safety standards and provide the necessary durability for northern conditions.
• Small Aircraft: On routes served by the L-410, the cabin is intimate with limited headroom, designed strictly for short hops.

Business Class

Currently, KrasAvia does not offer a dedicated Business Class cabin on most of its scheduled flights. The service model focuses on egalitarian transport essential for the region. However, passengers seeking more flexibility with luggage and ticket changes are advised to purchase the "Optimum" fare family, which offers benefits similar to premium economy regarding baggage allowance, even if the onboard seating remains standard.

In-Flight Services and Amenities

Meals and Beverages

Catering services on KrasAvia flights vary significantly based on the duration of the flight and the aircraft type.

• Short Flights (under 2 hours): On routes such as those to Kemerovo or Barnaul, service is typically limited to complimentary cold beverages (water and juices).
• Longer Flights: On longer sectors, such as the flight to Ufa or Ulan-Ude, passengers may be served a light snack or a sandwich.
• Recommendation: Given the limited onboard menu, it is highly recommended to purchase snacks or a meal at the airport before boarding, especially if you have specific dietary requirements.

Entertainment

As a regional airline, KrasAvia aircraft are not equipped with in-flight entertainment systems (IFE) such as seatback screens or Wi-Fi streaming. The primary entertainment is the view outside the window. Flying over the vast, untouched taiga, winding rivers, and the rugged landscapes near Gorno-Altaysk offers a unique scenic experience that many travelers find mesmerizing. Passengers are advised to bring their own books, tablets, or music (with headphones) to enjoy during the flight.

Special Assistance

KrasAvia is committed to making air travel accessible to everyone, despite the challenging environment in which it operates.

• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: Assistance is available for boarding and disembarking. However, due to the structural limitations of smaller aircraft (like the L-410 or An-24), which may use built-in stairs rather than jet bridges, passengers requiring wheelchairs should notify the airline at least 48 hours in advance to ensure proper accommodation.
• Unaccompanied Minors: The airline offers a service for children traveling alone, ensuring they are supervised by ground staff and cabin crew from check-in until they are handed over to their guardian at the destination.
• Expectant Mothers: Pregnant women are accepted on board up to a certain stage of pregnancy, typically requiring a medical certificate after the 28th week confirming fitness to fly.

Destinations & Route Network

KrasAvia plays a fundamental role in the aviation infrastructure of Siberia, focusing on connecting remote and hard-to-reach areas with major administrative centers. The airline's network is designed to serve the unique geography of the region, operating scheduled flights primarily from its main hub in Krasnoyarsk. This strategic location allows travelers to access a wide variety of destinations, ranging from industrial cities to the pristine wilderness of the North.

Primary Hub: Krasnoyarsk

The heart of the airline's operations is Krasnoyarsk (KJA/KCY). From here, passengers can reach numerous regional cities and towns that rely on air travel as their primary link to the outside world. The hub serves as the launchpad for expeditions into the taiga or business trips to neighboring regions.

Regional Centers and Major Cities

KrasAvia maintains regular air bridges to several key cities in Western and Eastern Siberia. These routes are essential for business and tourism, offering convenient connections to:

• Tomsk – A historic educational and scientific center.
• Barnaul – The administrative center of the Altai Krai.
• Kemerovo and Novokuznetsk – Major industrial hubs in the Kuzbass region.
• Gorno-Altaysk – The gateway to the stunning Altai Mountains, popular with nature lovers.
• Abakan and Kyzyl – Vital connections for the republics of Khakassia and Tuva.

Connecting the North

A significant portion of the airline's schedule is dedicated to "socially significant" routes that fly north into the Arctic and sub-Arctic zones. These flights connect Krasnoyarsk with isolated communities such as:

• Tura and Baykit – Key settlements in the Evenk district.
• Igarka and Turukhansk – Located along the Yenisey River.
• Severo-Yeniseysky and Kodinsk – Important industrial and energy towns.
• Lensk, Talakan, and Nizhneangarsk – Connecting the region to the resources of Yakutia and Buryatia.

Inter-Regional Routes

Beyond flights originating strictly from Krasnoyarsk, the airline operates several point-to-point routes that facilitate travel between other Russian cities without needing to transfer through the main hub. Notable examples include:

• Ulan-Ude to Kyzyl – Linking Buryatia directly with Tuva.
• Ufa to Kogalym – Connecting the Bashkortostan capital with the oil-rich Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug.
• Tomsk to Strezhevoy – A vital link within the Tomsk region.
• Nizhnevartovsk – Served from Krasnoyarsk, connecting to the oil centers of Western Siberia.

Route Summary Table

The following table highlights the most frequent connections currently operated by KrasAvia, showcasing the airline's focus on regional integration.

Flying with KrasAvia offers a unique opportunity to explore the vast and scenic landscapes of the region. To ensure a smooth journey starting from their primary hub in Krasnoyarsk, a little preparation goes a long way. Here are some essential tips to help you secure the best fares and enjoy a comfortable flight experience.

Timing is everything when it comes to booking. Since KrasAvia operates many regional routes with smaller aircraft and specific schedules, seats can fill up faster than on major international lines. It is generally advisable to book your tickets at least 3 to 4 weeks in advance. Booking early not only secures your spot on flights to remote destinations but often provides access to lower fare classes before they sell out.

To find the best deals, keep an eye on the airline's official website for seasonal promotions. Regional carriers sometimes offer special rates for specific routes or during off-peak travel periods. Subscribing to newsletters or monitoring fare comparison tools can also help you catch price drops immediately.

Maximize your convenience by utilizing online check-in services. This feature typically opens 24 hours before the scheduled departure time. Checking in online allows you to confirm your flight, select your preferred seat, and often skip the long queues at the airport counters. If you are traveling with only hand luggage, this can significantly reduce your time spent at the terminal.

Regarding seat selection, consider choosing a window seat to enjoy the stunning aerial views of the Siberian landscape. While seat selection might be free during online check-in for some fares, other tariffs may require a small fee to reserve a specific spot in advance. It is worth checking the fare rules when purchasing your ticket to understand your options.

Finally, always consider adding travel insurance to your booking. This provides a safety net for unexpected situations, such as flight delays or baggage issues. Additionally, as the airline does not utilize a mobile app, ensure you have a digital copy of your boarding pass saved directly on your phone or use the mobile version of their website to access your booking details easily throughout your journey.

The history of KrasAvia began in 2002 when it was established as a state-owned enterprise to address a critical need: maintaining air connectivity across the vast and often inaccessible Krasnoyarsk Territory. Originally created to preserve and manage the region's aviation assets, the carrier's primary mandate was social rather than commercial. In those early years, the focus was strictly on providing a lifeline to remote northern communities where roads are nonexistent and rivers freeze for much of the year, ensuring that residents in the Arctic and sub-Arctic zones could access medical care, essential supplies, and administrative services.

For much of its existence, the airline relied on a fleet of robust Soviet-designed aircraft, such as the Antonov An-24 and An-26, alongside Mi-8 helicopters. These machines were specifically chosen for their ability to withstand the harsh Siberian climate and land on the unpaved gravel airstrips typical of the taiga. As the airline matured, a significant milestone was reached with the launch of a comprehensive fleet renewal program. This transition involved the integration of modern ATR-42 and ATR-72 aircraft, marking a shift from a purely utilitarian operator to a passenger-focused airline offering international standards of comfort on its trunk routes.

While the carrier initially served only the internal needs of the region, it gradually expanded its horizons to become a key player in inter-regional transport. Over the last decade, the network grew to include scheduled connections to neighboring administrative centers, effectively bridging the logistical gaps between different parts of Siberia. This period saw the establishment of regular routes to university cities like Tomsk and industrial hubs such as Kemerovo and Barnaul, facilitating business travel and reducing the need for passengers to route through distant federal hubs.

In more recent years, the airline has diversified its mission to support the development of domestic tourism. Recognizing the potential of Russia's interior, it increased flight frequencies to destinations renowned for their natural beauty, such as Gorno-Altaysk in the Altai Republic and Ulan-Ude near Lake Baikal. This strategic evolution transformed the carrier from a local transport provider into a facilitator of adventure tourism, enabling travelers to easily combine visits to the Yenisey River with trips to the Altai Mountains and the Urals, with connections now extending as far as Ufa.

Today, the airline continues to innovate by balancing its original social responsibilities with commercial growth. Recent developments have focused on the digitalization of booking systems and the refinement of service standards. Despite these modern advancements, the carrier maintains its unique dual operational model: modern aircraft serve the paved regional airports, while the maintained legacy fleet continues to perform its historic duty of connecting the most remote corners of the taiga to the wider world.