Nordwind Airlines

Nordwind Airlines is a prominent carrier dedicated to connecting travelers with a wide array of domestic and international destinations. With its primary operational hub situated in Saint Petersburg, the airline has established itself as a key player in the leisure travel market, offering both scheduled and charter services. Founded with a vision to make air travel accessible and comfortable, Nordwind continues to expand its network, providing passengers with reliable service and convenient connections across the globe. Whether flying for a sunny vacation or a business engagement, travelers can expect a welcoming atmosphere and efficient operations.

A Growing Network

Since its inception, Nordwind Airlines has significantly broadened its horizons. The carrier offers extensive connectivity within Russia, linking major regional centers. Popular routes include frequent flights to the capital, Moscow, and the vibrant city of Kazan. Additionally, the airline is a preferred choice for holidaymakers, providing regular access to resort destinations such as Sochi. This focus on combining essential domestic routes with popular leisure spots allows passengers to plan diverse and exciting itineraries.

Modern Fleet and Safety

Nordwind operates a modern and efficient fleet primarily composed of Boeing and Airbus aircraft, including the Boeing 777 and 737, as well as the Airbus A330 and A321. This diverse lineup allows the airline to effectively manage both short-haul domestic hops and longer international journeys. Safety is a paramount core value; the airline adheres to rigorous maintenance standards and holds IOSA (IATA Operational Safety Audit) registration, underscoring its commitment to international safety practices and passenger well-being.

Passenger Experience

The airline strives to provide a comfortable onboard experience tailored to the needs of modern travelers. Passengers can expect a range of services designed to enhance their journey, from generous baggage allowances on many fare types to attentive cabin crew service. Nordwind focuses on creating a relaxing environment, particularly for families and tourists, ensuring that the vacation experience begins the moment they step on board. With a continuous drive to improve service quality, the airline remains a competitive and attractive option for exploring the region and beyond.

For travelers in the United Arab Emirates, contacting Nordwind Airlines is primarily handled through their global customer support channels and digital platforms. While the airline operates scheduled flights to various regions, specific local call centers may not be available in every destination. Passengers are encouraged to use the international 24/7 support line or the official mobile app for the most prompt assistance.

Official Website

For the most up-to-date flight schedules, ticket management, and online services, visiting the official English-language website is recommended.

• Website: https://nordwindairlines.ru/en

Contact Information

• Customer Service (International): +7 495 730 43 30 (Available 24/7; international call charges from the UAE may apply).
• Ticket Booking: +7 495 730 43 30 or via the "Manage Booking" section on the website.
• Email: nws@nordwindairlines.ru (For general inquiries and support).
• Mobile App: Nordwind Airlines (Available for download on iOS and Android platforms for convenient booking and check-in).
• Headquarters Mailing Address: Leningradskaya str., 25, Khimki, Moscow Region, Russia.

Social Media

The airline maintains a presence on several social media platforms where travelers can find news and updates. Please note that response times via direct messages may vary.

• VKontakte: Official Page (Primary channel for updates)
• Telegram: Official Channel
• Instagram & Facebook: Links available via the official website footer (subject to regional availability).

Local Representation in the UAE

Currently, Nordwind Airlines does not operate a dedicated public walk-in sales office with a local phone number in the United Arab Emirates. Support is centralized through the headquarters in Moscow.

• Airport Desks: For urgent operational matters on the day of departure, passengers can visit the airline's check-in counters or designated service desks at the departure airport.

Emergency & 24/7 Support

For urgent inquiries, such as flight changes or cancellations, the international call center operates around the clock.

• 24/7 Support Line: +7 495 730 43 30

Understanding the baggage rules is an essential part of planning a stress-free journey with Nordwind Airlines. The carrier offers a variety of fare families, each with specific allowances designed to suit different travel needs, from light business trips to extended vacations. Whether you are flying out of the hub in Saint Petersburg or connecting from other cities, familiarizing yourself with these policies in advance can save time and prevent unexpected fees at the airport.

Carry-On Baggage Allowances

Nordwind Airlines generally includes a carry-on allowance for all passengers, but the dimensions are strictly enforced. For most Economy Class fares, including "Light" and "Optimum," passengers are permitted one piece of hand luggage weighing up to 10 kg. The standard dimensions for this item typically must not exceed 40x30x20 cm. This compact size is designed to fit easily under the seat in front of you. Passengers on "Premium" fares may enjoy a more generous allowance, often permitting a standard cabin bag size (e.g., 55x40x20 cm), but it is crucial to verify the specific rules on your ticket, as airport staff frequently use calibrators to check bag sizes.

Checked Baggage Limits

Your checked baggage allowance depends entirely on the fare class purchased. The "Light" fare is designed for travelers who prefer to travel light and typically does not include any free checked baggage allowance; bags must be purchased separately. The "Optimum" fare usually includes one piece of checked luggage weighing up to 20 kg. The sum of the three dimensions (length + width + height) for any checked bag should not exceed 203 cm. If you are traveling with family or friends, note that pooling baggage weight is generally allowed only if passengers are traveling together on the same reservation and present themselves at the check-in counter simultaneously.

Excess Baggage and Fees

If your luggage exceeds the weight or quantity limits of your fare, excess baggage fees will apply. Nordwind Airlines employs a fixed-rate system for excess weight, which can vary based on the route and the time of payment. It is significantly cheaper to purchase additional baggage allowance online through the "My Booking" section of the website or the mobile app at least 4 hours before departure rather than paying at the airport counter. Overweight items (bags weighing more than 20 kg but less than 32 kg usually incur a heavy bag fee, while items over 32 kg generally require special cargo arrangements or prior approval.

Special Items and Sports Equipment

Travelers heading to active destinations, such as the ski resorts near Sochi, will appreciate the airline's policy on sports equipment. During specific seasonal periods (typically winter), Nordwind often allows one set of ski or snowboard equipment to be carried free of charge in addition to the standard baggage allowance on certain fares. This usually includes one pair of skis with poles or a snowboard, plus additional equipment like boots and a helmet. Bicycles, surfboards, and musical instruments can also be transported, though they must be declared in advance and may incur a special handling fee depending on their size and weight.

Restricted and Prohibited Items

To ensure safety on board, strict regulations apply to what can be packed. Prohibited items in both carry-on and checked baggage include explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids, and toxic substances. Lithium batteries and power banks must never be placed in checked luggage; they must be carried with you in the cabin. Additionally, standard international restrictions apply to liquids in hand luggage: containers must not exceed 100 ml and must fit comfortably within a single transparent, resealable 1-liter plastic bag.

Tips for Packing Efficiently

To maximize your allowance and avoid hassle, consider using a soft-sided bag for your carry-on, as it is easier to fit into the sizing calibrators if required. Always weigh your bags at home before leaving for the airport to ensure they stay within the 10 kg or 20 kg limits. If you are unsure about the size of your hand luggage, purchase the "priority boarding" or "extra hand luggage" service online if available, as this is often more cost-effective than paying gate fees. Finally, always label your checked bags inside and out with your name and contact details to help with identification.

Traveling with pets requires careful planning, and Nordwind Airlines strives to make the journey as smooth as possible for you and your furry companions. The airline accepts domestic animals, such as cats, dogs, and birds, for carriage on most of its flights. Whether you are heading on a long vacation or relocating, understanding the specific regulations ensures a safe and stress-free experience for your pet.

Transport Options

Nordwind Airlines offers three distinct methods for transporting animals, depending on the size and weight of your pet.

In Cabin (Carry-on)

Small pets can travel with you in the passenger cabin if they meet specific weight and size criteria. This option allows you to keep your companion close throughout the flight.

• Carrier Dimensions: The carrier must typically not exceed dimensions of roughly 60x35x20 cm (length x width x height). Soft-sided carriers are generally recommended as they fit more easily under the seat.
• Maximum Weight: The total weight of the pet together with the carrier must not exceed 8 kg.
• Allowed Pet Types: Cats, dogs, and birds are generally permitted.
• Limit per Passenger: usually, one carrier per passenger is allowed.
• Placement: The carrier must be placed securely under the seat in front of you during takeoff and landing.

In Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)

Animals that exceed the cabin weight limits must travel in the baggage hold. This area is pressurized and temperature-controlled to ensure animal safety.

• Container Requirements: Pets must be transported in a rigid, IATA-compliant plastic container with a secure metal door. Soft bags are not permitted in the hold.
• Weight Limits: Animals weighing up to 50 kg (including the crate) can typically be checked as baggage.
• Comfort: The container must be large enough for the animal to stand up, turn around, and lie down naturally. The bottom must be covered with absorbent material.
• Documentation: A "Live Animal" sticker must be affixed to the crate.

As Cargo (For Large Animals)

For very large animals or specific complex travel arrangements, transportation via the air cargo terminal is required.

• When Required: This option is mandatory for animals weighing more than 50 kg (including the container) or if the animal is traveling unaccompanied.
• Special Requirements: Cargo shipment involves a different booking process and handling procedure at the freight terminal.
• Booking Procedure: You must arrange this service through the airline's cargo sales agents well in advance of your departure date.

Required Documentation

To board the flight, you must present a complete set of valid veterinary documents. Requirements may vary depending on whether you are flying domestically, for example to Sochi, or internationally.

• Veterinary Passport: Must be current and fully completed.
• Health Certificate: A valid veterinary certificate (such as Form No. 1 for flights within Russia) issued shortly before travel.
• Vaccinations: Proof of valid vaccinations, primarily against rabies. The vaccine must be administered no less than 21-30 days and no more than one year before travel.
• International Certificates: For international travel, compliance with the destination country's specific veterinary regulations is mandatory.

Service Costs

Pet transportation is not included in the free baggage allowance and is subject to additional fees. Costs are generally fixed but depend on the method of transport and the route.

• In-Cabin Fee: A fixed fee applies per flight segment.
• Cargo Hold Fee: Rates are typically higher than cabin fees and may vary based on the total weight category.
• Payment: Fees can often be paid online during booking or at the airport ticket counter.

Preparation Tips

Preparing your pet for the journey is crucial for their comfort and safety.

• Familiarization: Let your pet get used to the carrier or crate several days before the flight to reduce anxiety.
• Feeding: Feed your pet a light meal about 4 hours before departure to prevent airsickness; avoid feeding right before the flight.
• Hydration: Ensure your pet is well-hydrated but limit water intake immediately prior to boarding.
• Stress Reduction: Consult your veterinarian about natural calming remedies if your pet is anxious. Sedatives are generally discouraged due to health risks at high altitudes.

Restrictions

For safety reasons, Nordwind Airlines enforces certain restrictions on animal transport.

• Prohibited Breeds: Certain snub-nosed (brachycephalic) dog breeds (e.g., Bulldogs, Pugs) may be restricted from traveling in the cargo hold due to respiratory risks.
• Aggressive Animals: The airline reserves the right to refuse transport to animals that show signs of aggression.
• Age Limits: Puppies and kittens must typically be at least 12 weeks old to travel.
• Exceptions: Recognized service dogs accompanying passengers with disabilities often travel free of charge in the cabin, subject to specific documentation and prior notification.

Important Recommendation: Airline policies regarding pet travel are subject to change. It is strongly recommended to contact Nordwind Airlines directly or visit their official website at least 48 hours before your flight to confirm the latest rules, fees, and availability for your specific route.

Nordwind Club Loyalty Program

Frequent travelers can enhance their journey with Nordwind Club, the airline's dedicated loyalty program designed to reward passengers for every mile they fly. Whether departing from the main hub in Saint Petersburg or flying internationally, members can accumulate miles on scheduled flights and redeem them for valuable travel benefits. The program is straightforward, offering a seamless way to turn regular travel into exciting rewards and making future trips more affordable.

Elite Status Levels

The program features a tiered structure that offers various elite levels, designed to recognize and reward the most frequent flyers. As members accumulate miles and progress from the entry-level status to higher tiers, they unlock an array of increasing privileges. These benefits typically include conveniences such as priority check-in, bonus mile accrual on flights, and complimentary extra baggage allowances. Those reaching the highest tiers can expect premium perks, including free seat selection, business class upgrades, and dedicated customer support services.

Earning Miles

• Flights: Earn miles for every flight segment based on the distance flown and the fare class purchased.
• Partners: Accumulate additional points when booking hotels, renting cars, or using partner services.
• Promotions: Participate in seasonal offers to earn double miles on specific new or popular routes.
• Retrospective Credit: Members can often claim miles for flights taken up to six months prior to joining.

Redeeming Miles

• Award Flights: Use accumulated miles to purchase award tickets for yourself, family, or friends to any destination in the network.
• Extra Services: Spend miles to pay for additional baggage, special meals, or preferred seat selection.
• Class Upgrades: Exchange miles to upgrade your seat from Economy to Business Class on eligible flights for a more comfortable journey.

Alliance Membership

• Independent Status: Nordwind Airlines is not currently a member of major global alliances like Star Alliance, SkyTeam, or oneworld.
• Partnerships: The airline operates independently but maintains interline agreements to facilitate smoother connections.

How to Join

• Website Registration: Sign up for free by filling out the profile form on the official Nordwind Airlines website.
• Mobile App: Download the airline's app to register instantly and access your digital membership card on the go.

Nordwind Airlines aims to provide a pleasant and efficient travel experience tailored to both budget-conscious tourists and those seeking extra comfort. Whether you are departing from the main hub in Saint Petersburg or connecting through other major cities, the airline offers service levels designed to meet the diverse needs of its passengers.

Economy Class

Economy Class is the core offering, designed to deliver value without compromising on essential comforts. It is available on all aircraft and is ideal for leisure travelers heading to popular destinations like Sochi or Kazan.

• Seating: Passengers enjoy ergonomic leather seats with a standard pitch that provides adequate legroom for short and medium-haul flights. On wide-body aircraft (Boeing 777 and Airbus A330) used for longer routes, the cabin layout is configured to maximize personal space.
• Amenities: A travel kit is often provided on long-haul flights (over 6 hours), typically including socks, an eye mask, and earplugs to help you rest.
• Service: The friendly cabin crew is dedicated to ensuring a safe and smooth journey, assisting with luggage storage and passenger requests throughout the flight.

Business Class

For those desiring a more exclusive experience, Business Class is available on select scheduled and charter flights, particularly on wide-body aircraft. This service is perfect for business travelers or anyone wishing to start their holiday with added luxury.

• Priority Services: The premium experience begins on the ground with dedicated check-in counters and priority boarding, allowing you to settle in before the rest of the cabin.
• Comfort & Space: Business Class cabins feature wide, comfortable armchairs with generous recline and significantly more legroom than Economy. On certain long-haul aircraft configurations, seats may offer extended footrests for better relaxation.
• Premium Amenities: Passengers receive an enhanced amenity kit, pillows, and blankets to ensure a restful flight.

In-Flight Entertainment

To keep passengers entertained, Nordwind offers a modern digital solution. Instead of traditional seatback screens, the airline utilizes a multimedia streaming system accessible via your own personal device.

• How it Works: Once on board, you can connect your smartphone, tablet, or laptop to the internal Wi-Fi network (Nordwind Entertainment).
• Content: The portal offers a wide selection of movies, TV shows, cartoons for children, audiobooks, and music. It also features an interactive flight map so you can track your journey in real-time.
• Recommendation: It is highly recommended to fully charge your devices before the flight and bring headphones, as power outlets may not be available in all Economy seats depending on the specific aircraft.

Dining and Beverages

Nordwind Airlines takes pride in its catering options, though the specific offering depends on the route duration and fare class.

• Complimentary Service: On flights up to 5 hours and 30 minutes, passengers are typically offered soft drinks and plain water. On longer flights (over 5.5 hours), a hot meal and hot beverages (tea/coffee) are generally included in the ticket price.
• Paid Pre-Order Meals: For flights where a full meal is not complimentary, or for passengers who want a specific dish, the airline offers an extensive Sky Café menu. You can pre-order delicious hot meals, ranging from hearty meat dishes to vegetarian options and breakfast pancakes, up to 11 hours before departure via the website.
• Business Class Dining: Business Class passengers enjoy a complimentary premium dining service on all flights, featuring a selection of appetizers, hot main courses, desserts, and a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

Traveling with Children

Families are a priority for Nordwind, and several services are in place to make flying with little ones easier.

• Infant Safety: For infants under two years old traveling on a parent's lap, a special seat belt is provided.
• Child Meals: Special children's meals can be pre-ordered to ensure your kids have food they enjoy.
• Entertainment: The streaming system includes a dedicated "Kids" section with cartoons and games to keep young travelers occupied.
• Unaccompanied Minors: The airline offers a supervised travel service for children aged 5 to 16 traveling alone. This service must be booked in advance and ensures the child is escorted by staff from check-in to the arrival gate.

Passengers with Reduced Mobility

Nordwind is committed to making air travel accessible to everyone. Assistance is available for passengers with disabilities or reduced mobility.

• Wheelchair Assistance: Passengers can request wheelchair service for navigating the airport and boarding the aircraft. This request should be made at least 48 hours before the scheduled departure.
• Onboard Support: Cabin crew can assist with moving to and from the lavatory using an onboard wheelchair (available on wide-body aircraft) and with stowing hand luggage.
• Safety Briefings: Individual safety briefings are provided to ensure passengers with special needs are fully informed of safety procedures.

Nordwind Airlines offers a comprehensive network of routes that connects the cultural capitals of Russia with key regional centers and popular leisure spots. Utilizing Saint Petersburg as its primary operational base, the airline provides passengers with convenient access to a wide variety of cities across the country, from the Baltic coast to the heart of Siberia.

Hub Connections from Saint Petersburg

Travelers departing from Pulkovo Airport in Saint Petersburg have access to an extensive list of direct flights. High-frequency routes connect the Northern Capital with the historic city of Kazan and the western enclave of Kaliningrad. For those heading east, the airline operates regular services to major industrial and cultural centers including Ufa, Tyumen, and Omsk. The network also extends to the textile center of Ivanovo and deeper into Siberia with flights to Tomsk, Barnaul, Novokuznetsk, and Kurgan.

Moscow and Central Russia

From the capital, Moscow, passengers can fly directly to Kazan and the steppe city of Orenburg. Kazan acts as a significant secondary node in the network. Beyond its connection to Saint Petersburg and Moscow, it serves as a departure point for flights to Omsk, Ufa, and the southern resort city of Sochi. Additionally, travelers from Kazan can reach Cherkessk, a gateway to the scenic North Caucasus region.

Southern and Regional Routes

Nordwind Airlines facilitates travel to the sunny Black Sea coast, making it easier for tourists to reach Sochi. Besides flights from Kazan, the airline offers routes to Sochi from Nizhny Novgorod and Ufa. Conversely, flights departing from Sochi connect passengers to the Urals, specifically Yekaterinburg. Other notable regional connections include flights from Makhachkala to Ufa, strengthening the links between southern Russia and the Ural region.

Top Routes Overview

Travelers planning a trip with Nordwind Airlines can ensure a smoother journey by following a few practical booking strategies. As the airline operates its primary hub in Saint Petersburg, many itineraries may involve connections through this historic city. Understanding the carrier's policies and digital tools can help passengers save money and reduce stress at the airport.

Best Times to Book and Finding Deals
To secure the most favorable fares, it is generally recommended to book tickets at least 3 to 5 weeks in advance. Prices tend to rise as the departure date approaches, especially for high-demand routes such as flights to Moscow or the resort city of Sochi. For the best value, travelers should keep an eye on the airline's official website for seasonal sales and subscribe to their newsletter to receive alerts about special promotions and limited-time offers.

Online Check-in and Mobile App
Nordwind Airlines provides convenient online check-in options, typically opening 24 hours before the scheduled departure. Utilizing this service via the airline's website or mobile app allows passengers to select their seats, download their boarding passes, and avoid long queues at the airport counters. The mobile application is particularly useful for tracking flight status updates and managing booking details on the go.

Seat Selection and Comfort
For those prioritizing comfort, pre-selecting seats during the booking or check-in process is advisable. While standard selection may be available, passengers looking for extra legroom can often purchase upgraded seats for an additional fee. This is worth considering for longer flights, such as those connecting Kazan with other major regional destinations.

Travel Insurance and Preparation
When finalizing a reservation, adding travel insurance is a prudent step to cover unexpected changes, delays, or cancellations. Passengers should also carefully review the baggage allowance for their specific fare class, as rules may vary significantly between "Light" fares and those that include checked luggage.

Founding and Early Vision

Nordwind Airlines was established in 2008 with a clear and focused mission: to provide high-quality air transport for travelers seeking leisure destinations. Born as the strategic aviation partner for Pegas Touristik, one of the region's leading tour operators, the airline commenced operations with a modest fleet of three Boeing 757-200 aircraft. In its initial years, the carrier concentrated exclusively on charter flights, whisking tourists from major cities to sunny holiday spots in the Mediterranean and Southeast Asia. This foundation built a strong reputation for reliability and customer-centric service in the vacation travel sector.

Fleet Evolution and Rapid Expansion

As demand for its services grew, so did the airline's capabilities. Nordwind embarked on a significant fleet modernization and expansion program to support longer routes and higher passenger volumes. The carrier introduced wide-body aircraft, including the Boeing 767 and eventually the Boeing 777, allowing for non-stop transcontinental flights to distant tropical resorts. To balance its network, the airline also integrated Airbus A321 and Boeing 737 aircraft, optimizing efficiency on medium-haul routes. This diverse mix of aircraft enabled the company to maintain flexibility, catering to both high-demand seasonal charters and regular scheduled services.

Shift to Scheduled Services

A major milestone in the airline's history was the strategic transition from being a purely charter operator to becoming a major scheduled carrier. Recognizing the need for greater connectivity within the country, Nordwind began launching regular scheduled flights, significantly broadening its business model. This shift allowed independent travelers, not just package tourists, to utilize the airline's growing network. Today, scheduled flights constitute a substantial portion of its operations, making it a key player in the domestic aviation market.

Developing Regional Hubs

Unlike many competitors that focused almost exclusively on the capital, Nordwind adopted an innovative network strategy by developing potent regional hubs. The airline established a major operational base in Saint Petersburg, enhancing direct connectivity from the Northern Capital to numerous cities without the need to transfer through Moscow. Furthermore, the carrier aggressively expanded its footprint in Kazan and the resort city of Sochi, creating a "decentralized" network that significantly reduced travel times for passengers in the regions. This approach facilitated easier travel between industrial centers like Ufa, Omsk, and the Black Sea coast.

Strategic Partnerships and Alliances

To further strengthen its market position, Nordwind formed a close strategic alliance with Ikar Airlines (Pegas Fly). While remaining separate legal entities, the two carriers harmonized their route networks, commercial management, and fleet utilization. This synergy allowed them to offer a wider range of destinations and coordinated schedules, providing passengers with seamless connections and a unified travel experience. The partnership has been instrumental in optimizing resources and expanding the reach of both airlines across the continent.

Modern Developments and Innovation

In recent years, Nordwind has continued to innovate, focusing on digital transformation and passenger experience. The airline revamped its corporate identity with a striking new livery and modernized its cabin interiors to improve comfort. It also invested in upgrading its digital platforms, offering a user-friendly mobile app and website for easier booking and flight management. With a commitment to safety, the airline is an active IATA member and holds the IOSA (IATA Operational Safety Audit) certification, underscoring its adherence to rigorous international safety standards as it continues to connect people and places.