S7 Airlines

Siberian Light Aviation, widely known by its resonant abbreviation "SiLA" (which means "Strength" in Russian), is not just an air carrier, but a true "aerial all-terrain vehicle" for the vast expanses of Russia. The company undertakes a complex and romantic mission: connecting major centers with remote villages where the sky is often the only road. Passengers of this airline can count on a unique experience flying over the picturesque taiga and mountain ranges, reaching places where large airliners do not fly.

The history of the airline began in 2008 in Magadan, and since then it has become an indispensable link in the transport system of Siberia and the Far East. The main geography of flights covers not only the Magadan Region but also the Irkutsk Region, the Republic of Buryatia, the Tomsk Region, and the Altai Territory. "SiLA" specializes in regional transportation, restoring forgotten local routes and opening new directions connecting neighbors.

The company's fleet is perfectly selected for harsh operating conditions and landings on short unpaved strips. The basis of the fleet consists of reliable turboprop An-28 aircraft and modern L-410 Turbolet planes. These small but hardy machines are capable of landing at small airports and landing sites inaccessible to jet aviation, making them indispensable for residents of hard-to-reach areas.

The mission of "SiLA" is to ensure transport accessibility and social stability in the regions. The company positions itself as a carrier with high social responsibility, understanding that for many passengers, their flights are the only opportunity to quickly get to a hospital, visit relatives, or resolve work issues. Flight safety is an unconditional priority: the airline's pilots are high-class professionals with extensive experience in operating aircraft in the complex meteorological conditions of the North.

You can contact "SiLA" (Siberian Light Aviation) in several ways. To resolve issues regarding booking, clarifying the schedule, or baggage transportation, we recommend contacting the unified hotline or using the feedback form on the official website. The carrier strives to maintain contact with passengers despite the complex geography of flights to remote regions.

Official Website

The current schedule and online ticket purchase are available on the airline's website:

• https://sila-avia.ru

Contact Details

• Official Website: sila-avia.ru
• Unified Inquiry Service (within Russia): 8 800 234 35 52 (toll-free call)
• Booking and Sales Department (Irkutsk): +7 (3952) 79-63-15
• Email for General Inquiries: sila-avia@mail.ru
• Mobile App: There is no proprietary app; tickets can be issued via the mobile version of the website.

Social Media

You can follow news about the opening of new routes and schedule changes in the official groups:

• VKontakte (main communication channel)
• Telegram

Local Offices and Representations

The airline has representative offices at key airports in its route network. Please note that operating hours may depend on the flight schedule.

• Magadan (Hub): Sokol Airport, Arrival Hall, 2nd floor. Phone: +7 (914) 031-13-30.
• Irkutsk (Headquarters): Shiryamova St., 10B (airport area).

Please note: Contact details and office operating hours are subject to change. We strongly recommend checking the current information on the airline's official website before your trip.

Travelling with Siberian Light Aviation (SiLA) has its own specifics dictated by the type of aircraft. Since flights are often operated on small L-410 and An-28 planes, the cargo compartments here are significantly smaller than those of large airliners. Baggage rules here are stricter, and packing for the road should be treated with care.

Hand Luggage

Passengers can take items necessary for the flight on board, but cabin space is limited. Standard allowances usually include:

• Weight: Typically up to 5 kg.
• Dimensions: Hand luggage must be compact to safely fit under the seat or on the shelf. It is recommended to use soft backpacks or small bags.
• Personal Items: Over and above the allowance, it is usually permitted to carry a lady's handbag, a men's briefcase, a laptop, a camera, or outerwear.

Checked Baggage

SiLA's baggage policy often combines the weight of hand luggage and checked baggage. This means the free allowance may be just 10 kg in total (e.g., 5 kg in the cabin + 5 kg in the hold). Be sure to check the conditions of your fare in the itinerary receipt before departure.

• Baggage is handed over at the check-in counter before departure.
• Due to the technical features of small aircraft, the number of places for heavy or oversized baggage is physically limited.

Excess Baggage

If the weight of your items exceeds the free allowance, a surcharge will be required.

• Payment is made at the departure airport according to the airline's rates for each kilogram of excess weight.
• Important: On light aviation flights, the aircraft captain has the right to refuse the carriage of excess baggage if the maximum take-off weight of the aircraft is reached. Guaranteeing the carriage of extra kilograms is difficult, so it is better to travel light.

Special Items

The transport of non-standard baggage requires prior coordination with the airline (preferably when purchasing the ticket):

• Sports Equipment: Skis, snowboards, or fishing tackle are accepted for carriage only if there is free space in the luggage compartment and, as a rule, for an additional fee.
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments can be carried in the cabin as hand luggage. Large ones (e.g., a cello) require purchasing a separate seat in the cabin.
• Weapons: Since many routes pass through the hunting grounds of Siberia and Magadan, the transport of weapons is permitted strictly in accordance with RF legislation (in a case, unloaded, and handed over to the crew for the duration of the flight).

Prohibited and Restricted Items

For safety purposes, standard civil aviation rules apply:

• Categorically Prohibited: Explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids, poisons, and toxic substances.
• Prohibited in Hand Luggage: Sharp and cutting objects (knives, scissors), liquids in containers exceeding 100 ml.
• Attention to Electronics: Power Banks and spare lithium-ion batteries can be carried only in hand luggage. Checking them into luggage is prohibited due to the risk of ignition.

Tips for Efficient Packing

To ensure a comfortable flight without extra charges, use these recommendations for regional flights:

• Soft Bag Instead of a Suitcase: Rigid plastic suitcases are difficult to place in L-410 luggage compartments. A soft sports bag or backpack is the ideal choice for such trips.
• Wear the Heaviest Items: If flying in winter, wear your heavy jacket and boots to avoid overloading the scales at check-in.
• Arrive Early: Given the strict weight control, the baggage processing procedure may take time.

The airline "SiLA" (Siberian Light Aviation) is loyal to travel with pets, understanding the importance of mobility for residents of remote regions. However, since flights are operated on small aircraft, space for accommodating animals is strictly limited, and transport requires mandatory prior coordination with the carrier no later than 48 hours before departure.

Transport Options

In the Aircraft Cabin (Hand Luggage)

This option is suitable for small cats and dogs that can comfortably fit at the owner's feet or in their arms.

• Carrier Dimensions: The sum of three dimensions must not exceed 115 cm (recommended dimensions for a soft bag are no more than 45×30×20 cm).
• Maximum Weight: Usually up to 8 kg including the container (requires clarification when booking, as on some aircraft types the limit may be reduced to 5 kg).
• Permitted Animals: Domesticated household animals (cats, dogs, birds).
• Limit per Passenger: One container per adult passenger.
• Requirements: The carrier must have ventilation, a reliable lock, and a waterproof bottom (or an absorbent pad).

In the Luggage Compartment (Checked Baggage)

Animals exceeding the cabin limits travel in a special compartment. Considering the technical features of An-28 and L-410 aircraft, compartments may have temperature limitations.

• Container Requirements: A rigid plastic or metal box allowing the animal to stand up to its full height and turn 360 degrees.
• Weight Limits: The weight of the animal together with the cage must not exceed 30–50 kg (depending on the aircraft type).
• Temperature Limits: Be sure to check with the airline regarding the availability of a heated luggage compartment on your specific flight, especially in winter.
• Safety: The cage must be securely closed, and the bottom lined with absorbent material.

As Cargo

Used for transporting very large dogs, exotic animals, or when sending a pet without the owner's accompaniment.

• When Required: If the weight with the cage exceeds the allowable luggage compartment limits or the animal is flying alone.
• Booking Procedure: Processed through the airport cargo terminal; a separate air waybill is required.
• Special Requirements: Stricter veterinary control and requirements for the cage construction (reinforced locks).

Necessary Documents

To be admitted to the flight, the owner is obliged to provide a full package of documents:

• Veterinary Passport: With records of vaccinations and parasite treatment.
• Vaccination: Valid rabies vaccination (administered not earlier than a year and not later than 21–30 days before departure).
• Health Certificate: Veterinary certificate (Form No. 1) for flights between regions (requirements may change, it is recommended to have it with you).
• For International Flights: International veterinary certificate and documents required by the destination country.

Cost of Services

Transporting animals on "SiLA" flights is not included in the free baggage allowance and is paid separately.

• In Cabin and Luggage: Payment is usually made according to excess baggage rates for the actual weight (animal + cage).
• Pricing: The cost is calculated for each kilogram of weight or as a fixed fee per piece, depending on the route.
• Guide Dogs: Transported free of charge provided there are documents confirming the passenger's disability and the dog's training certificate.

Preparation Tips

• Carrier: Accustom the animal to the container in advance to reduce stress. For the cabin, choose soft carriers with good ventilation.
• Feeding: Do not feed the pet heavily less than 4 hours before departure, but ensure access to water.
• Stress Reduction: Put a familiar item with the owner's scent in the cage. The use of sedatives is permitted only after consultation with a veterinarian.
• Airport: Arrive for check-in early (at least 2 hours prior), as document processing and weighing take time.

Restrictions

• Prohibited Breeds: The airline may refuse to transport brachycephalic dog breeds (pugs, bulldogs) due to the risk of breathing problems at altitude.
• Aggression: Dogs of fighting breeds or animals showing aggression may not be admitted to the flight.
• Health Condition: Transport of sick animals, laboratory animals, as well as puppies and kittens younger than 3 months (not vaccinated against rabies) is prohibited.
• Exceptions: Guide dogs accompanying passengers with disabilities fly in the cabin free of charge (muzzled and on a leash).

Please note: Rules may change depending on the aircraft type and season. We strongly recommend contacting the "SiLA" airline contact centre before purchasing a ticket to confirm the possibility of transporting your pet.

Currently, the airline "SiLA" (Siberian Light Aviation) does not support a classic loyalty programme with mileage accumulation and status tiers similar to those offered by large federal carriers. The company's business model focuses on operating socially significant regional flights, many of which are subsidized by the state, allowing for fixed low fares for all passengers without the need for complex bonus schemes.

Participation Levels

Since the airline adheres to a policy of equal access to services, traditional grading of passengers into status levels is not applied here. All travellers receive the same set of privileges dictated by the capabilities of light aviation:

• Unified Standard: No division into "Economy" and "Business" or Silver/Gold levels.
• Individual Approach: Thanks to the small number of seats on the plane (up to 19 passengers), the crew pays attention to every guest, which replaces elite level privileges.

How to Earn Miles or Points

A mechanism for accruing bonus units for flights with this airline is not provided. Instead of virtual currency, passengers receive direct financial benefits in other ways:

• Subsidized Fares: Special reduced prices funded by regional budgets apply on many routes.
• Social Benefits: Direct discounts when purchasing tickets for youth, pensioners, and residents of the Far East (subject to relevant government programmes on the route).
• No Hidden Fees: A simple fare structure without the need to overpay for a brand or marketing points.

How to Spend Bonuses

Since miles are not accumulated, the option for reward tickets is absent. However, the company offers alternative ways of saving and convenience:

• Direct Purchase: The availability of tickets at low prices replaces the need to save for a "free" flight for years.
• Corporate Agreements: For organizations frequently sending employees on business trips across Siberia and the Far East, individual service conditions may be discussed privately.

Participation in Alliances

Airline "SiLA" is an independent regional carrier and maintains autonomy in its operational activities.

• Status: It is not a member of global aviation alliances (such as Star Alliance, SkyTeam, or oneworld).
• Partnership: The company develops interline agreements with other Russian carriers to form convenient connections at hub airports (Irkutsk, Magadan, Tomsk), allowing for transfer flights, but without through-mileage accrual.

How to Become a Member

Special registration in a loyalty programme is not required. To use the airline's services, it is sufficient to:

• Purchase a ticket on the official website or at a ticket office.
• Present documents confirming the right to a subsidy (residency, age) if the fare provides for it.
• Subscribe to the airline's social networks to be the first to know about the opening of new routes and seasonal sales.

Flying with Siberian Light Aviation (SiLA) differs significantly from traveling on large mainline airliners. Since the carrier's fleet consists of small turboprop L-410 and An-28 aircraft, on-board service is adapted to the conditions of regional aviation. There is no customary division into cabins here, and the main emphasis is placed on speed and the ability to reach the most inaccessible corners of the taiga and tundra.

Classes of Service

Due to the structural features of the aircraft, the airline offers only one class of service — Economy. The concept of "Business" or "First" class is not provided on "SiLA" flights.

• Single Cabin: All passengers are in equal conditions. The aircraft typically has between 15 and 19 seats.
• No Partitions: The cabin is a single open space, which creates an almost family-like atmosphere during the flight.

Seat Configuration and Comfort

The interior of "SiLA" aircraft is utilitarian but quite comfortable for short flights (flights usually last from 40 minutes to 2 hours).

• Seating Layout: In L-410 aircraft, seats are usually arranged in a "1+2" scheme (a single seat on one side and double seats on the other) or "1+1". This means every passenger has either aisle access or a window seat. There are no middle seats sandwiched between other passengers here.
• Space: Seat pitch is standard for regional aircraft. Tall passengers might find it a bit tight, but for short distances, it is not critical.
• Cabin Features: In L-410 aircraft, one cannot stand up to full height (cabin height is about 1.6 m). Overhead bins for hand luggage are small, designed only for outerwear and small items.

Food and Beverages

Due to the lack of full kitchen modules (galleys) on board small aircraft, hot meals are not provided on flights.

• Beverages: Flight attendants (on aircraft types where they are provided) offer refreshing drinks: water (sparkling and still) and juices.
• Snacks: On some routes, passengers may be offered light snacks (cookies, waffles, or sandwiches), but one should not count on a full lunch. We recommend having a substantial meal at the airport before departure.

Entertainment and Connectivity

Multimedia entertainment systems (monitors in seatbacks, Wi-Fi) are absent on board. The main entertainment during the flight becomes the view outside the window.

• Panoramic Views: Planes fly at relatively low altitudes, and the windows in the L-410 are quite large. This allows for detailed viewing of the picturesque landscapes of Siberia, mountain ranges, and rivers.
• Press: Fresh newspapers or a branded magazine may be offered on board, but it is better to take care of leisure in advance by taking a book or downloading a movie to your smartphone.

On-board Amenities

Passengers should consider the specifics of light aviation when planning hygiene procedures.

• Restroom: L-410 aircraft have a small toilet in the tail section, but it is intended for emergency cases and has limited space. On An-28 aircraft, a restroom may be absent altogether (depending on the layout). It is strongly recommended to visit the restroom in the terminal building before boarding.
• Noise and Vibration: Turboprop engines operate louder than jet engines. Passengers sensitive to noise are recommended to bring earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones.

Special Services

Despite the harsh operating conditions, the airline tries to take care of all categories of passengers, although technical capabilities are limited.

Passengers with Children

• Infants under 2 years old can fly for free on their parents' lap (without a separate seat).
• Children from 2 to 12 years old are granted discounts according to federal aviation regulations.
• Strollers must be checked into baggage (or left at the stairs upon boarding), as there is no space for them in the cabin.

Passengers with Disabilities

The flight of passengers with reduced mobility requires mandatory prior coordination (at least 48 hours in advance), as:

• Aircraft are not equipped for movement in a wheelchair inside the cabin (narrow aisle).
• Boarding and disembarking are often carried out via a built-in airstair door, which requires assistance from airport staff and the crew.
• Ambulifts may be absent at airports in small settlements, so boarding is performed manually.

The route network of the airline "SiLA" (Siberian Light Aviation) has a distinctly social focus. The carrier specializes in flights to hard-to-reach areas of Siberia and the Far East, providing vital links between remote villages and regional centers. The main hub airports from where the airline's planes depart are Magadan and Irkutsk.

The flight geography covers several key regions, including the Magadan and Irkutsk regions, the Republic of Buryatia, the Tomsk region, and the Altai Territory. For many settlements, "SiLA" flights remain the only alternative to a long overland journey or the sole method of reaching the "mainland".

Main Flight Directions

Please note: The airline often operates flights according to a seasonal schedule, adapting to the needs of residents and tourists. The availability of specific routes and departure times may change depending on the time of year and meteorological conditions characteristic of the harsh climate of the northern territories.

Planning a trip with Siberian Light Aviation (SiLA) requires a special approach. Since flights are operated on small planes to regions with complex logistics and a harsh climate, the process of buying tickets and preparing for departure has its nuances. We have collected recommendations that will help make your journey to Magadan or deep into Siberia more predictable and comfortable.

Best Time to Book

The main rule when buying tickets for "SiLA" flights is to buy as early as possible. The capacity of L-410 and An-28 aircraft is only 15–19 people. During the holiday season or before public holidays, seats on popular routes may run out several weeks before departure. The optimal time for booking is 1–2 months before the planned date.

Discounts, Promotions and Subsidies

The airline actively participates in state programmes for subsidizing regional transportation. This is an excellent opportunity to save on the flight.

• Subsidized Fares: Check for special prices for youth (under 23), pensioners, people with disabilities, and large families. Such tickets are often sold out first.
• Social Media: The airline rarely holds large-scale marketing sales, but it promptly announces additional flights or the opening of sales for subsidies in its official groups on VKontakte and Telegram.

Online Check-in

The online check-in service is available on the carrier's official website and usually opens 24 hours before departure. This allows you to choose a convenient seat in advance and save time at the airport.

• Important Nuance: If you are departing from a small village airport or a landing site, the technical capability to scan electronic boarding passes may be absent. We strongly recommend printing the itinerary receipt and boarding pass on paper before the trip.
• In large hub airports (Irkutsk, Magadan), standard procedures apply.

Tips for Choosing Seats

The cabin configuration in L-410 type aircraft usually provides for a "1+2" scheme (one row of seats on the left and two on the right). This gives certain advantages when choosing:

• For Solo Travellers: Try to choose seats in the left row (designated by the letter "A"). You will sit by the window and have no neighbours on the side — this is the maximum comfort available on this type of aircraft.
• For Couples: Choose the double seat blocks on the right.
• View: The windows in these planes are located quite low and provide an excellent view. Avoid rows directly under the wing if you want to take panoramic photos, although on high-wing aircraft (where the wing is on top), the downward view is usually good from any row.

Travel Insurance

Considering the airline's flight geography (Far North, Siberia, mountainous terrain), flights are highly dependent on weather conditions. Fog, blizzards, or strong winds can cause departure delays.

• Recommendation: When purchasing a ticket or separately, take out insurance that covers risks of flight delay and cancellation. This will help compensate for accommodation and meal expenses if bad weather delays you at the departure airport for several days.

Mobile App

At the moment, "SiLA" airline does not have its own mobile application for download in the App Store or Google Play. To manage your booking from a smartphone, use:

• Mobile Version of the Website: It is adapted for phone screens and allows you to search for tickets, check in, and view the online scoreboard.
• Tip: Save the PDF file of the ticket to your phone's memory, as mobile internet may be unstable in remote points of the route network.

The history of the airline "SiLA" (Siberian Light Aviation) is a chronicle of the revival of light aviation in Russia. The enterprise was founded in 2008 in Magadan. At that time, regional transportation in the Far East was experiencing a deep crisis: many Soviet routes were closed, and airfields in small villages were falling into disrepair. The company's founders set themselves an ambitious goal — to restore the lost air bridges between the regional center and the remote corners of Kolyma.

In the early stages, the company's fleet consisted of time-tested An-28 aircraft. These unpretentious twin-engine machines were ideally suited for short runways and the harsh climatic conditions of the North. The first years of operation focused on ensuring stable communication within the Magadan Region, where aviation is often the only year-round mode of transport.

A significant milestone in development was the start of a large-scale fleet modernization in the second half of the 2010s. The company bet on new L-410 UVP-E20 aircraft. This is a modern modification of the legendary Czech "Turbolet", equipped with digital avionics and a more comfortable cabin. The fleet renewal allowed not only to increase safety and flight regularity but also to expand the geography of presence beyond the home region.

The period of active expansion was marked by entry into the air transportation market in the Irkutsk and Tomsk regions. "SiLA" created a second major hub in Irkutsk, starting flights to hard-to-reach areas of Eastern Siberia and the Republic of Buryatia. A significant event was the launch of tourist flights to Olkhon Island (Khuzhir settlement), which made trips to Lake Baikal more accessible and faster. Interregional connections were also restored, for example, flights from Tomsk to Barnaul and Abakan, which allowed residents of Siberia to travel to neighbours without transfers in Moscow.

As part of the strategy of consolidation and business optimization, "SiLA" cooperates closely with the Chita-based airline "Aeroservice". The actual unification of management and technical resources allowed the carriers to create a unified route network covering a vast territory from Altai to the Sea of Okhotsk. Today, the airline continues to develop the concept of an "aerial fixed-route taxi", introducing convenient connections and participating in state subsidy programmes, making flights accessible to broad segments of the population.