NordStar

NordStar is a dynamic airline that serves as a vital bridge between the rugged landscapes of Northern Siberia and major cultural and economic centers. Originally established to ensure reliable connectivity for the industrial city of Norilsk, the carrier has significantly evolved to offer a broad network of scheduled and charter flights across the region and beyond. Known for its operational resilience in challenging climatic conditions, NordStar provides passengers with a dependable and comfortable travel experience, whether they are flying for business or leisure.

NordStar distinguishes itself through a commitment to safety, punctuality, and passenger comfort. The airline's development has been driven by the unique needs of the regions it serves, fostering a culture of expertise in handling complex flight operations in the Far North.

Key Features and Advantages:

• Fleet Modernization: The airline operates a modern fleet primarily consisting of Boeing 737-800 aircraft, equipped with comfortable cabins to ensure a pleasant journey on medium-haul routes. For regional connections, the carrier also utilizes robust turboprop aircraft suited for shorter distances and specific airport conditions.
• Strategic Connectivity: NordStar is the principal carrier for the Krasnoyarsk Territory. Its route map focuses on connecting Norilsk with key hubs like Moscow, Saint Petersburg, and Krasnoyarsk. Additionally, the airline offers direct flights to popular southern resorts such as Sochi and Makhachkala, making holiday travel accessible for residents of northern latitudes.
• Safety and Standards: Safety is the paramount value for the company. NordStar is included in the IOSA (IATA Operational Safety Audit) registry, confirming its adherence to stringent international safety management standards. This certification highlights the airline's dedication to maintaining high operational quality.
• Service Excellence: Passengers can expect a range of fare families tailored to different travel needs, from light travel to business class options. The airline also offers a loyalty program, allowing frequent flyers to accumulate miles and redeem them for future flights or service upgrades.

Contacting NordStar in the United Arab Emirates

For travelers in the United Arab Emirates, connecting with NordStar is best achieved through their international digital channels and 24-hour support center. As the airline does not currently operate direct flights to the UAE or maintain a physical local presence, all inquiries regarding bookings, schedules, and services should be directed to the headquarters via the official website or international hotline.

Official Website

The primary resource for managing your travel plans is the official website, which provides full functionality in English, including ticket purchasing and online check-in:

• Official Website: www.nordstar.ru

Contact Information

Please use the following details to reach the airline's support team. Be aware that phone support is provided via the main contact center in Russia.

• Customer Service (International): +7 495 783 00 42
  *Note: Support is available 24/7. International calling rates from the UAE apply.
• Ticket Booking: Tickets can be booked directly via the website or the mobile app. For telephone bookings, use the customer service number above.
• General Inquiries Email: info@nordstar.ru
• Mobile App: NordStar (Available for download on the App Store and Google Play for convenient booking management).

Social Media

You can also find updates and news on the airline's official social media platforms:

• Telegram: Official NordStar Channel
• VKontakte: NordStar Airlines

Local Offices in the United Arab Emirates

Currently, NordStar does not have a local sales office or airport representation in the United Arab Emirates.

• Dubai & Abu Dhabi: No physical offices or airport desks are available.
• Recommendation: Please resolve all ticketing and service matters remotely using the website or international phone line before traveling to the airport of departure in Russia.

Emergency & 24/7 Support

The airline's Contact Center operates around the clock to assist passengers worldwide.

• 24/7 Support Line: +7 495 783 00 42

Baggage Policy Overview

Understanding the baggage rules is essential for a smooth journey with NordStar, especially given the unique climates and destinations the airline serves. Whether you are traveling light for a business meeting or packing heavy winter gear for the Siberian cold, NordStar offers a range of fare options designed to accommodate various needs. Passengers are encouraged to review the specific allowance indicated on their ticket, as rules may vary depending on the fare class and route.

Carry-on Baggage Allowance

NordStar allows passengers to bring cabin baggage on board to ensure essential items are always within reach. The allowance generally depends on the service class:

• Economy Class: Typically includes one piece of hand luggage weighing up to 10 kg with maximum dimensions of 55 x 40 x 23 cm.
• Business Class: Passengers usually enjoy an enhanced allowance, often permitting two pieces of hand luggage or a higher weight limit, ensuring greater comfort and convenience.

In addition to the main carry-on bag, passengers are permitted to bring personal items such as a handbag, briefcase, laptop bag, or a suit carrier. Parents traveling with infants may also bring a baby carrycot or food required for the child during the flight.

Checked Baggage Limits

Your checked baggage allowance is determined by the fare family you select during booking. It is important to choose the right option to avoid unexpected fees at the airport:

• Economy Light: Designed for short trips, this fare often includes only hand luggage. Checked bags must be purchased separately.
• Economy Standard: This is the most common choice for travelers. It typically includes one piece of checked luggage weighing up to 23 kg.
• Business Class: Travelers in Business Class benefit from a generous allowance, usually consisting of two pieces of luggage, each weighing up to 30 kg.

The maximum dimensions for any single piece of checked baggage (length + width + height) should not exceed 203 cm.

Excess Baggage Fees

If your luggage exceeds the weight or quantity limits of your ticket, excess baggage fees will apply. NordStar offers the option to purchase additional baggage allowance in advance via their website or mobile app, which is often significantly cheaper than paying at the airport check-in counter. If you are planning a long stay or moving items between cities like Moscow and Norilsk, pre-booking extra weight is highly recommended.

Special Baggage: Sports Equipment and Instruments

NordStar is accustomed to transporting passengers with active lifestyles. Special rules apply for non-standard items:

• Ski and Snowboard Equipment: During the winter season, the airline often allows the free carriage of one set of ski or snowboard equipment in addition to the standard baggage allowance. This is particularly popular for travelers heading to the slopes near Sochi or Krasnoyarsk.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be carried in the cabin if they fit within the hand luggage dimensions. Larger instruments, such as cellos or guitars, may require purchasing an extra seat or must be checked as special cargo in a hard-shell case.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

To ensure the safety of all passengers and crew, strict international regulations apply to what can be packed:

• Prohibited in All Baggage: Explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids, corrosive materials, and toxic substances are strictly forbidden.
• Restricted in Checked Baggage: Lithium-ion batteries, power banks, and electronic cigarettes must be packed in your carry-on luggage only. They are not permitted in the cargo hold due to fire safety regulations.
• Liquids in Cabin: Liquids, gels, and aerosols in hand luggage must be in containers of 100 ml or less and fit comfortably in a single transparent, re-sealable plastic bag (maximum 1 liter capacity).

Tips for Packing Efficiently

Packing smart can save you time and money. Here are a few tips for your trip:

• Weigh Before You Go: Use a portable luggage scale at home to ensure your bags are within the 23 kg or 10 kg limits.
• Label Your Bags: Attach a sturdy tag with your name, phone number, and email address to all checked luggage. Placing a copy of your contact details inside the bag is also a good precaution.
• Secure Fragile Items: If you are transporting souvenirs or gifts from Saint Petersburg, ensure they are well-padded or kept in your hand luggage.
• Check Fare Conditions: Always verify the specific baggage rules on your ticket confirmation, as promotional fares may have different restrictions.

Traveling with Pets

NordStar understands that pets are part of the family, and for many travelers, a trip isn't complete without their furry companions. The airline welcomes cats, dogs, and birds on its flights, ensuring they travel safely and comfortably to destinations across the network, from the industrial heart of Norilsk to the cultural hubs of Russia.

Pets in the Cabin

Small animals can travel with you in the passenger cabin, provided specific requirements are met. This option is available for cats and dogs (and sometimes birds) if the combined weight of the animal and its carrier does not exceed 10 kg. The pet must be kept in a suitable container—either a hard-shell cage or a soft-sided carrier—that ensures the animal cannot escape and allows for proper ventilation. The maximum dimensions for the carrier should typically not exceed 115 cm in the sum of three dimensions (length + width + height), allowing it to fit safely under the seat in front of you.

Pets in the Cargo Hold

For larger pets that exceed the cabin weight limits, NordStar offers transportation in the aircraft's heated cargo compartment. This ensures that even big dogs can accompany you on your journey, whether you are relocating to Novosibirsk or visiting relatives in Ufa. Animals traveling in the hold must be placed in a sturdy, IATA-compliant travel crate that allows them to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. It is crucial to ensure the cage is secure and has a waterproof bottom.

Service Animals

Guide dogs accompanying passengers with disabilities are carried free of charge and are not subject to weight restrictions. They must travel in the cabin, wear a muzzle and collar, and remain tied at the passenger's feet throughout the flight. Proper documentation confirming the dog's training and status must be presented at check-in.

Booking and Fees

Pet transportation is not included in the standard free baggage allowance and is subject to an additional fee, calculated based on the weight of the animal and the container. Since the number of animals allowed on each flight is limited, it is mandatory to notify the airline and book your pet's spot at least 48 hours before departure. You can request this service via the NordStar call center or when purchasing your ticket.

Required Documents

To ensure a smooth check-in process, passengers must provide valid veterinary documents. For domestic travel within Russia, a veterinary passport with proof of current vaccinations (especially against rabies) is generally sufficient. If you are traveling internationally or to specific regions, a veterinary certificate (Form No. 1) issued by a state veterinary clinic may be required. Always check the specific regulations of your destination city, such as Chelyabinsk or Samara, to avoid any issues upon arrival.

NordStar "Flying" Loyalty Program

NordStar rewards its frequent travelers through its dedicated loyalty program known as "Flying" (or "Letat" in Russian). Designed to make travel more rewarding for both business commuters and holidaymakers, the program allows passengers to earn miles for every flight taken and redeem them for valuable travel perks. Whether you are a frequent flyer between Moscow and Norilsk or an occasional traveler to Sochi, the program offers a straightforward way to enhance your journey.

Membership Tiers and Benefits

The "Flying" program features a structured tier system consisting of five distinct levels. Status is determined by the number of flight segments or status miles accumulated, with each new level unlocking progressively greater privileges:

• Nickel Status: The entry-level tier assigned immediately upon registration. Members can start earning miles for their flights from day one and gain access to special member-only fare offers.
• Bronze Status: The first elite milestone. Upon reaching this level, members begin to enjoy additional benefits, such as bonus miles on flights, rewarding their increasing loyalty.
• Silver Status: Achieved by regular flyers. Benefits typically include priority check-in at select airports and a higher percentage of bonus miles earned on each journey.
• Gold Status: Offers premium perks designed for comfort, such as access to business class lounges (where available), extra baggage allowance, and priority boarding to streamline the airport experience.
• Platinum Status: The highest tier reserved for the most frequent flyers. It includes all Gold benefits plus exclusive privileges like complimentary service class upgrades (subject to availability), dedicated support, and the highest mileage earning bonuses.

Earning Miles

Members earn "Flying" miles based on the distance flown and the fare class purchased. The higher the fare family, the more miles you accrue.

• Flights: Earn miles on all scheduled NordStar flights. Long-haul routes like Moscow to Krasnoyarsk yield higher earnings.
• Service Class Bonus: Business Class tickets earn significantly more miles—often 150% to 200% of the actual distance flown.
• Partner Offers: Occasionally, the airline partners with hotels or car rental agencies where you can earn additional points, though the primary earning method is flying.

Redeeming Miles

Accumulated miles can be used to reduce the cost of future travel or to upgrade the comfort of your current trip:

• Award Flights: Redeem miles for full award tickets to any destination in the NordStar network, such as Saint Petersburg or Makhachkala.
• Service Upgrades: Use your miles to upgrade from Economy to Business Class on eligible flights, enjoying premium catering and extra legroom.
• Transferability: In some cases, members can transfer miles to family members or friends, allowing for faster redemption on group trips.

Alliance Membership

NordStar operates as an independent carrier and is not currently a member of major global airline alliances like Star Alliance, SkyTeam, or oneworld.

• Partnerships: The airline maintains interline and codeshare agreements with individual Russian carriers to facilitate smoother connections, but earning and redeeming "Flying" miles is generally restricted to NordStar-operated flights.

How to Join

Joining the "Flying" program is free and simple:

• Online Registration: Sign up via the official NordStar website or mobile app. You will receive a digital membership number immediately.
• Retroactive Credit: If you have flown with NordStar recently but weren't a member, you can often claim miles for flights taken up to 6 months prior to registration.

Service Classes

NordStar offers two primary classes of service on its flights: Economy Class and Business Class. Each is designed to meet the specific requirements of travelers, ranging from cost-effective transport for regional commuters to enhanced comfort for long-haul passengers traveling between major hubs like Moscow and the Siberian north.

Economy Class
The Economy Class cabin is designed to provide a reliable and comfortable journey at an affordable price point. Passengers are seated in standard ergonomic seats with adjustable headrests, suitable for flights of varying durations.

• Configuration: On the airline's primary Boeing 737-800 fleet, seats are arranged in a standard 3-3 layout.
• Amenities: Depending on the fare type, passengers may have access to a selection of newspapers and the airline's in-flight magazine, which features travel articles and news about the regions served.

Business Class
For those seeking a more exclusive experience, Business Class offers a separated cabin area at the front of the aircraft. This service is ideal for business travelers or anyone wishing to relax in greater privacy.

• Comfort: The cabin features wider, more comfortable armchairs typically arranged in a 2-2 configuration, providing generous legroom and personal space.
• Priority Services: Business Class passengers enjoy priority check-in, expedited security clearance (where available), and priority boarding. Additionally, they are often granted access to business lounges at departure airports, allowing for a restful wait before the flight.
• Baggage: A higher baggage allowance is included, allowing for more checked luggage and carry-on items.

In-Flight Dining

NordStar takes pride in its catering services, understanding that a good meal is essential, especially on longer routes such as the four-hour journey between Norilsk and Sochi or Moscow. The meal service varies based on the duration of the flight and the time of day.

• Economy Meals: On flights exceeding three hours, passengers are typically served a hot meal accompanied by tea, coffee, and soft drinks. On shorter regional hops, light snacks or sandwiches and beverages are provided.
• Business Dining: Business Class passengers are offered a premium menu with a choice of hot dishes, salads, and desserts served on porcelain tableware. An assortment of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages is also available throughout the flight.
• Special Meals: Travelers with specific dietary requirements (e.g., vegetarian, children's meals) can request special meals in advance, usually up to 24 hours before departure, by contacting the airline's call center.

Onboard Entertainment and Atmosphere

While NordStar does not typically offer individual seat-back entertainment screens, the airline ensures a pleasant atmosphere through other means.

• Reading Material: The "NordStar" in-flight magazine is available in seat pockets, offering engaging content about travel destinations, lifestyle, and airline news.
• Atmosphere: The cabin crew is trained to provide attentive and friendly service, ensuring a welcoming environment. On flights to leisure destinations like Makhachkala or Krasnodar, the mood is often relaxed and holiday-focused.

Special Services

NordStar is committed to making air travel accessible and safe for all categories of passengers.

• Traveling with Children: The airline offers services for families, including priority boarding for those with small children. An Unaccompanied Minor service is available for children aged 5 to 12 traveling without a guardian, where airline staff supervise the child from check-in until they are handed over to the designated adult at the destination.
• Passengers with Reduced Mobility: Comprehensive assistance is available for passengers with disabilities. This includes help with boarding and disembarking, as well as the transport of wheelchairs. Requests for such assistance should be made at the time of booking or at least 48 hours prior to the flight to ensure all necessary arrangements are in place.

NordStar Route Network

NordStar operates a robust network primarily centered around its strategic hub in Norilsk (NSK). The airline plays a crucial role in connecting this key industrial city in the High North with major administrative, cultural, and transport centers across the Russian Federation. From the bustling capital to southern resorts and regional hubs, NordStar ensures vital air links that support both business activity and tourism.

Planning a trip with NordStar requires a bit of strategy to ensure a smooth journey and the best value for your money. As a carrier that connects major hubs like Moscow and Saint Petersburg with northern regions, flight availability can fluctuate significantly depending on the season. To secure the lowest fares, it is highly recommended to book your tickets at least 2 to 3 months in advance. This is particularly important for routes to Norilsk, where demand often exceeds supply during peak travel periods.

To catch the best deals, keep an eye on the airline's official promotions. Signing up for the NordStar newsletter is a great way to receive alerts about seasonal sales and special offers directly to your inbox. If you are flexible with your travel dates, try searching for flights mid-week, as departures on Tuesdays and Wednesdays can sometimes be more affordable than weekend flights to popular destinations like Sochi or Krasnoyarsk.

Streamline your airport experience by taking advantage of the online check-in service. This feature typically opens 24 hours before departure and allows you to choose your preferred seat and print your boarding pass or save it to your mobile device. Checking in online not only saves you time at the airport but also gives you a wider selection of seats, ensuring you can grab a window seat for views of the diverse landscapes or an aisle seat for easier access.

For travelers seeking extra comfort, consider purchasing seat selection options during the booking process. While standard selection is often available during check-in, paying a small fee in advance can guarantee seats with extra legroom, which is a valuable upgrade for longer flights. Additionally, using the official mobile app can greatly enhance your travel management. The app allows you to easily track your flight status, manage your booking, and access digital boarding passes, keeping all your essential travel information in one place.

Finally, do not overlook the importance of comprehensive travel insurance. When flying to regions with variable weather conditions, flight schedules can sometimes be impacted. Having insurance that covers flight delays or cancellations provides peace of mind. Whether you are flying to Ufa for business or connecting through Yekaterinburg, being prepared ensures that minor disruptions do not spoil your trip.

History of NordStar

The airline was established in 2008 with the primary mission of ensuring reliable and safe air transportation for the residents of the Norilsk industrial region and the Krasnoyarsk Territory. Operations officially commenced on June 17, 2009, with a debut flight from Norilsk to Moscow. This milestone marked the beginning of a new era for northern aviation, creating a vital lifeline that connected the remote polar areas with the country's central regions.

In the years following its launch, the carrier significantly expanded its route map by establishing a second strategic hub in Krasnoyarsk. This development allowed the airline to offer a wider variety of direct connections, linking the north not only to administrative centers like Saint Petersburg and Yekaterinburg but also to popular holiday destinations. The addition of routes to southern resorts such as Sochi and Makhachkala provided residents of Siberia with convenient access to warmer climates.

A key factor in the airline's success has been the continuous modernization of its fleet to handle the diverse and often challenging flying conditions of the region. By integrating modern Boeing 737-800 aircraft for longer routes and efficient ATR 42-500 turboprops for regional connections, the company ensured high standards of passenger comfort and operational reliability. Today, the network continues to grow, connecting cities like Ufa and Samara, reinforcing the airline's status as a major bridge across the vast landscapes of the Russian Federation.