VG Airlines

Volga-Dnepr is a unique player in global aviation, having become a symbol for the transportation of super-heavy and outsize cargo. The company is renowned for its impressive fleet, capable of delivering the most complex equipment to the remotest corners of the planet, from the Arctic to the tropics. The carrier's history began with the ambitious idea of using the legendary "Ruslan" aircraft for commercial purposes, which allowed for the creation of an entirely new segment in the logistics market. Today, the airline continues to fulfill important missions, connecting industrial centers and ensuring the delivery of unique cargo.

One of the airline's key features is its specialization in unique logistics solutions. "Volga-Dnepr" possesses expertise in transporting everything: from space satellites and power station turbines to rare animals and humanitarian aid. The company's fleet includes the famous ramp aircraft An-124-100 "Ruslan" and modernized Il-76TD-90VD, which allow for loading and unloading without the use of special airport ground equipment.

Although the airline is known for its global reach, the current route network, according to provided data, includes important regional destinations. Flights connect major centers, such as Moscow and Saint Petersburg, with the base airport in Vologda. Flights are also operated to the historic city of Veliky Ustyug, highlighting the versatility of the carrier's operations. Flight safety and cargo security remain the company's unconditional priority, confirmed by international quality certificates.

You can contact representatives of Volga-Dnepr airline to clarify logistics questions or book a charter through official channels. Since the carrier specializes in complex cargo operations worldwide, primary interaction occurs through central offices and specialized sales departments.

Detailed information about fleet capabilities and terms of cooperation can be found on the company's web resource:

• Official Website: www.volga-dnepr.com

Contact Details

For prompt communication, the phones of key divisions are operational:

• Central Office (Ulyanovsk): +7 (8422) 59-00-59
• Office in Moscow: +7 (495) 755-68-50
• Cargo Transportation and Charter Booking: +7 (495) 755-78-36
• E-mail: info@volga-dnepr.com, sales@volga-dnepr.com

Offices and Representations

The company's geography of presence is extensive, but the main operational centers managing global processes are based in Russia:

• Headquarters: Russia, Ulyanovsk, Karbysheva St., 14.
• Moscow Office: Russia, Moscow, Mezhdunarodnoe Shosse, 28B, bldg. 3 (Skypoint Business Park).

Since the company conducts active international activities, news about the transportation of unique cargo is often published on social networks such as LinkedIn and YouTube. Before visiting offices, we recommend verifying working hours and contact details on the official website.

Since Volga-Dnepr airline specializes in cargo charter transportation and unique logistics, the rules for transporting belongings here differ significantly from the standard norms of passenger airlines. When organizing transport on routes connecting cities such as Moscow, Saint Petersburg, and Vologda, key attention is paid to safety, proper documentation, and reliable cargo packaging.

General Transport Requirements

Unlike regular passenger flights where standard suitcase weight norms apply, on this carrier's flights, every kilogram of cargo and personal items is agreed upon individually depending on the charter conditions or carriage contract. This is particularly relevant for regional destinations, such as Veliky Ustyug, where the technical capabilities of the airport and aircraft dictate strict load limits.

Before dispatch, the following principles must be considered:

• Preliminary Approval: The weight and dimensions of any baggage or cargo must be declared in advance.
• Weighing: Absolutely all items planned for transport undergo weighing and screening procedures.
• Labeling: Each piece must have clear labeling with sender and recipient data.

Safety and Prohibited Items

Considering the specifics of the fleet and the complexity of operations performed, security checks on "Volga-Dnepr" flights are carried out with particular thoroughness. To ensure flight safety, the following are strictly prohibited for transport:

• Explosives, fireworks, and pyrotechnics.
• Compressed and liquefied gases (including refills for lighters and camping equipment).
• Flammable liquids (solvents, paints, gasoline).
• Toxic, poisonous, and radioactive substances.
• High-power lithium batteries without special packaging and declaration (special IATA DGR rules apply).

Packaging Recommendations

The safety of cargo and belongings during transport largely depends on the quality of packaging. For destinations with potentially difficult weather conditions, it is recommended to use moisture-resistant and shockproof materials.

• Use rigid containers capable of withstanding external pressure.
• Fragile items must be padded with cushioning material.
• Sharp parts and corners must be thoroughly isolated to avoid damaging the cargo hold lining or adjacent cargo.
• Ensure that the packaging is free of old tags and barcodes that could mislead logistics services.

For the transport of non-standard equipment or specific cargo (for example, expedition machinery), consultation with airline specialists is required at the flight planning stage.

Transporting Animals

As "Volga-Dnepr" airline is a specialized cargo carrier, the rules for transporting living creatures here differ radically from the standards of ordinary passenger airlines. Services for transporting pets in the aircraft cabin (hand luggage) or as accompanied baggage are not provided. Transportation of animals is possible exclusively under "Cargo" status (Live Animals / AVIH) with the issuance of an air cargo waybill.

Features of Live Animals Transportation

The company possesses colossal experience in delivering unique cargo and strictly follows international IATA Live Animals Regulations (LAR). Whether shipping animals from metropolises like Moscow or Saint Petersburg, or logistics to regional centers, for example, to Vologda, the safety of the live cargo is placed first.

Key Conditions:

• Transport Status: The animal flies in a special cargo compartment where the necessary temperature and pressure are maintained. The owner does not have access to the pet during the flight.
• Processing: The procedure takes place through the airport cargo terminal. Acceptance and release of the animal take longer than passenger luggage check-in.
• Escort: For valuable or exotic animals, accompaniment by a qualified specialist can be organized (by prior agreement).

Container Requirements

Since transportation is carried out as cargo, requirements for the reliability of the cage (container) are elevated. If you plan to send a pet, for example, to Veliky Ustyug, ensure the container meets the following criteria:

• Material: Rigid plastic, metal, or wood (depending on the animal species). Soft fabric carriers are prohibited for cargo transport.
• Size: The animal must be able to stand at full height, turn 360 degrees freely, and lie down in a natural position.
• Ventilation: Ventilation openings on at least three sides are mandatory.
• Safety: The door must have a reliable lock that prevents accidental opening.
• Equipment: Containers for water and food must be secured inside, and the bottom covered with absorbent material.

Necessary Documents

To issue an air cargo waybill, the sender is obliged to provide a full package of veterinary and accompanying documents:

• Veterinary Certificate: Form No. 1 (for transport within the Russian Federation) or relevant international certificates.
• Pet Passport: With valid vaccination records (primarily rabies) and microchipping.
• Permits: For exotic species, CITES or agricultural supervision permits may be required.

Booking and Cost

Transporting live animals on "Volga-Dnepr" flights is a complex logistical operation and is calculated individually. The cost depends on the weight (including the cage), volume, route, and nature of the cargo.

Important: A request for transportation must be submitted in advance (at least several days before departure) to the airline's sales or cargo transportation department. A guarantee of shipment is given only after confirmation of the aircraft's technical capability.

Loyalty Program and Corporate Cooperation

Due to the specific nature of Volga-Dnepr airline's activities, being a world leader in the segment of transporting super-heavy and outsize cargo, a classic loyalty program for private passengers (with mileage accrual and status tiers) is absent. The company's main focus is directed towards building long-term and mutually beneficial relationships with corporate clients and logistics partners.

Principles of Working with Regular Partners

Instead of standard bonus cards, the airline offers a flexible cooperation system for businesses. For regular customers of cargo charters and freight forwarding companies regularly shipping cargo through key network nodes, such as Vologda or other logistics hubs, individual commercial proposals are developed.

Benefits for corporate partners may include:

• Priority Booking: Guarantee of carrying capacity even during periods of peak demand for cargo transportation.
• Special Rates: Flexible pricing depending on volumes and regularity of shipments on popular routes connecting industrial centers, for example, Moscow and the regions.
• Personal Management: Dedicated specialists to support complex "turnkey" logistics projects.

Geography and Logistics Solutions

Special cooperation conditions are often applied when organizing complex supply chains. The airline possesses unique experience working not only on international lines but also on domestic routes requiring a special approach. This concerns both regular cargo flows from major cities, such as Saint Petersburg, and cargo delivery to remote or specific locations, for example, to Veliky Ustyug.

How to Become a Corporate Client

To gain access to preferential service conditions, forwarding companies and cargo owners need to conclude a corporate service agreement. To do this, it is recommended to contact the airline's commercial department. Conditions are fixed individually based on the planned annual tonnage and flight geography.

Traveling with Volga-Dnepr airline differs significantly from the experience of flying on classic commercial liners. Given the carrier's unique specialization in cargo operations and charter programs, the concept of onboard service is built around functionality, safety, and efficiency. The company's route network combines technical flights and regional transport through the hub in the city of Vologda, offering passengers — whether specialists accompanying cargo or tourists on local lines — special flight conditions.

Classes of Service

On most flights connecting key points such as Moscow and Saint Petersburg with regional centers, a mono-class cabin configuration is adopted. There is no division into Business and First Class in the traditional sense, which allows for space optimization and ensures transport accessibility.

• Economy Class: The standard accommodation option on regional flights. Seats provide a basic level of comfort sufficient for flights of short duration (usually 1 to 2 hours). The distance between rows allows passengers to sit comfortably during the journey.
• Service Passenger Compartment: On heavy transport aircraft (like the An-124) used for charter programs, a special deck is equipped for accompanying personnel. This is a unique space, isolated from the cargo hold, where up to 20 people can be accommodated comfortably. Seats here often have an increased recline angle for the rest of relief crews and technicians.

Food and Beverages

In-flight catering service is adapted to the duration and specifics of the flight. On short routes, for example, when flying to Veliky Ustyug, passengers are offered soft drinks and light snacks. Hot meals are generally not served due to the short flight duration.

For long cargo charters or expedition missions, meal plans are developed individually. Crews and accompanying persons are provided with full hot meals (including Halal options upon request), taking into account the body's needs when changing time zones and climate zones.

Entertainment and Connectivity

There are no built-in multimedia entertainment systems (IFE) or Wi-Fi for passengers on board the airline's aircraft. The philosophy of flight here is a "digital detox" and the opportunity to focus on the goals of the trip.

The main "entertainment" on the routes of the Russian North is the view from the window. Flying over the boundless forests and rivers of the Vologda region offers unforgettable panoramas, especially when approaching historic cities. Passengers are recommended to take care of books in advance or download content to personal mobile devices.

Comfort and Additional Services

Despite the utilitarian nature of the transport, airline staff pay close attention to safety and the basic comfort of everyone on board:

• Overhead Bins: Cabins are equipped with spaces for storing outerwear and small hand luggage.
• Climate Control: A comfortable temperature is maintained in passenger compartments, regardless of conditions in the cargo part of the aircraft.
• Lavatories: The aircraft is equipped with restrooms where cleanliness and necessary hygiene supplies are maintained.

For passengers with limited mobility or passengers with children on regional routes (via Vologda airport), necessary assistance is provided during boarding and disembarking. However, given the structural features of certain types of aircraft (for example, a high ramp), it is recommended to notify the carrier in advance about the need for special assistance to coordinate technical nuances.

The route network of Volga-Dnepr airline in this transport segment is built around its hub airport — Vologda. The regular schedule connects this regional hub with Russia's largest metropolises and also ensures accessibility to popular tourist destinations of the Russian North.

Planning a trip with Volga-Dnepr airline on regional routes has its own specifics. Since the carrier's route network connects large metropolises with the gems of the Russian North, the ticket purchasing strategy largely depends on seasonality and the purpose of your trip.

Best Time to Buy Tickets

For regular flights between the city of Vologda and the capitals (Moscow, Saint Petersburg), the standard rule applies: booking 2–3 weeks before departure allows you to secure the optimal price. However, if your destination is Veliky Ustyug, especially during the New Year holidays and winter break, tickets should be taken care of 2–3 months in advance. Demand for trips to visit Father Frost is traditionally high, and seats on flights run out very quickly.

Finding Favorable Fares and Discounts

To save on your flight, we recommend following a few simple rules:

• Watch for Subsidies: Government subsidy programs for youth, retirees, and families often operate on regional routes within Russia. Check for the availability of such fares on the official website or at ticket offices.
• Flexible Dates: Flights in the middle of the week (Tuesday, Wednesday) often cost less than flights on Friday evening or Sunday.
• Newsletter Subscription: Promotions for seasonal destinations can appear suddenly, so subscribing to the airline's newsletter will help you not miss a profitable offer.

Check-in and Seat Selection

The flight check-in procedure may differ from the familiar standards of major international airlines. Considering the regional nature of arrival airports, it is important to consider the following nuances:

• Online Check-in: The option for electronic check-in usually opens 24 hours before departure. We recommend completing it in advance to guarantee your seat, but be sure to have a printed itinerary receipt with you.
• Airport Check-in: In small airports, check-in counters close strictly according to schedule (usually 40 minutes before departure). Being late by even a couple of minutes can lead to being denied boarding, as the handling processes for small aircraft are very dynamic.
• Seat Selection: On small aircraft, the cabin layout can be specific. If a window view is important to you (and over the northern forests, it is magnificent), try to choose seats in the front part of the cabin during check-in.

Mobile Services and Booking Management

At the moment, booking management is most conveniently carried out through the company's official website. A fully functional mobile app may be absent or have limited functionality compared to industry giants. Therefore, all changes to the ticket, ordering additional meals, or baggage are best coordinated in advance through the support service or the web interface on a computer.

Travel Insurance

Given the changeable weather in northern latitudes, which can make adjustments to flight schedules, we strongly recommend purchasing insurance covering risks of flight delay or cancellation. This is especially relevant for connecting routes if you are flying via Moscow or Saint Petersburg further across Russia or abroad.

The history of Volga-Dnepr airline began in 1990 in Ulyanovsk, when a group of aviation enthusiasts decided to realize a bold idea — to use the unique capabilities of military transport aircraft An-124 "Ruslan" for commercial transportation of civil cargo. This became a turning point not only for domestic but also for global logistics. The company became the first private cargo air carrier in Russia to offer the market the delivery of super-heavy and outsize cargo by air, which was previously considered practically impossible.

In the early years, the carrier's key task was to prove the efficiency and reliability of its aircraft on the international stage. Within the first years of operation, the flight geography spanned continents, and "Ruslans" with the company emblem became recognizable at the world's largest airports. An important milestone in development was the creation of unique craneless loading technology, which allowed the airline to operate in airports with minimal infrastructure and deliver equipment to hard-to-reach regions.

Fleet evolution played a central role in expanding the company's capabilities. The foundation of the park was the legendary An-124-100, capable of lifting up to 120 tons on board. Later, responding to the tightening of international environmental requirements and noise standards, the company invested in the deep modernization of Il-76 aircraft. The appearance of the Il-76TD-90VD version allowed restrictions on flights to the USA, Europe, and Japan to be lifted, significantly expanding the route map.

Parallel to global cargo missions, the company developed and strengthened its positions in the domestic market, building logistics chains through strategically important nodes. One such key center became the base in Vologda. The development of this hub allowed for the establishment of regular connections between regions and capitals. The launch of routes connecting Vologda with metropolises such as Moscow and Saint Petersburg ensured a reliable channel for transporting cargo and mail to the Russian North.

A special place in the history of route network development is occupied by the destination to Veliky Ustyug. The opening of regular flights to this city not only solved regional supply issues but also played an important role in supporting the tourism potential of the home of Father Frost, ensuring fast and comfortable connection with the outside world.

Today, Volga-Dnepr continues to innovate, transforming from a simple carrier into a provider of complex logistics solutions. The company develops its own engineering projects for transporting space satellites, aircraft engines, and industrial equipment. The combination of unique experience in operating ramp aircraft and a developed network, including important regional hubs, allows the airline to maintain leadership in the complex air cargo segment.