Heydar Aliyev International Airport

Heydar Aliyev International Airport is not merely the air gateway to Azerbaijan, but a true architectural masterpiece that impresses travelers at first sight. Its futuristic design, resembling a bird with spread wings, and its meticulously thought-out interiors set the tone for your entire journey through the country. The airport regularly receives high praise for its service quality and comfort, making it one of the best in the region. It is a place where waiting for a flight transforms into a pleasant experience, thanks to cozy relaxation zones and modern infrastructure.

For your convenience, we have compiled key information about the airport in one table.

Heydar Aliyev International Airport is renowned not only for its impressive architecture but also for its supreme level of service. It has repeatedly been honored with the prestigious Skytrax World Airport Awards, achieving the maximum "5-Star" rating. Inside the terminal, passengers are welcomed by spacious and bright halls, original wooden "cocoon" cafés where one can relax in privacy, and numerous shops. The airport is fully equipped for a comfortable stay: it features free Wi-Fi, plenty of charging stations for gadgets, sleeping pods, and even a Sheraton hotel located in the immediate vicinity. Thanks to its advantageous geographical location, the airport serves as a vital transit hub connecting East and West.

If you need to contact representatives of Heydar Aliyev International Airport, please use the following contact information. We recommend verifying the accuracy of the data on the official website, especially if your inquiry concerns flight schedules or baggage allowance rules.

• Official Website: www.airport.az
• Information Desk Phone: +994 (12) 497 27 27 (24/7)
• Address: AZ1044, Baku city, Bina settlement
• General Email: office@airport.az
• Lost & Found Service: phone +994 (12) 497 27 92; e-mail: lost.found@azal.az
• Social Media: The airport maintains active pages on popular social networks, where you can also follow news and ask questions.

Getting to Heydar Aliyev International Airport from the center of Baku is effortless. Travelers have access to several convenient options varying in cost, speed, and comfort level, allowing you to choose the optimal method depending on your budget and personal preferences.

Public Transport: H1 Express Bus
The most budget-friendly and popular method is the dedicated H1 Airport Express bus. It operates around the clock on the route "28 May Metro Station — Airport". During the day, the interval is 30 minutes, and at night (from 21:00 to 06:00), it is one hour. The journey takes on average 30–45 minutes. Payment is made using the BakiKart transport card, which can be purchased and topped up at machines in the airport, at metro stations, and bus stops. Please note that cash payment inside the bus is not possible.

Taxi and Transfer
Taxis offer the fastest and most comfortable way to reach the airport. You can use official taxi services or mobile apps popular in Baku, such as Bolt or Uber. A trip from the city center will take about 20-30 minutes (excluding traffic) and will cost approximately 20-30 AZN. For greater convenience, especially if you are traveling with large luggage or family, you can book a private transfer in advance.

Car Rental and Parking
If you prefer independence in your movements, renting a car is an excellent choice. Counters of many international and local rental companies are present at the airport. The road from the city center follows the modern and convenient Heydar Aliyev Avenue. For those arriving in their own vehicle, both short-term and long-term parking lots are provided at both terminals. The cost depends on the parking duration, making this option convenient both for those seeing someone off and for those leaving their car for the duration of their vacation.

Heydar Aliyev International Airport consists of two passenger terminals, each with its own specialization. Their close proximity and clear navigation make moving around the airport simple and convenient for travelers.

Terminal 1 is the main and most modern building of the airport, serving the majority of international flights. It is easily recognizable by its futuristic architecture, resembling a bird with spread wings. Inside, the terminal impresses with space, light, and unique design elements, such as wooden "cocoons" housing cafés and shops. Departure and arrival zones are located on different levels: check-in takes place on the ground floor, and after passing security and passport control, passengers proceed to the upper floors for boarding gates. The infrastructure here is top-notch: numerous shops, restaurants, and comfortable waiting areas.

Terminal 2 was previously the main international terminal, and today it primarily serves domestic flights within Azerbaijan, as well as flights for some budget airlines. It is significantly smaller than Terminal 1 but remains functional and convenient. Everything here is compact, allowing for quick completion of all pre-flight formalities.

Both terminals are separate buildings but are within walking distance of each other. Walking between them takes just a few minutes. Navigation inside the airport is intuitive: there are signs everywhere in Azerbaijani, Russian, and English, as well as electronic boards with flight information. For international flights in Terminal 1, it is recommended to arrive 2.5–3 hours before departure for check-in and screening. For domestic flights from Terminal 2, 1.5–2 hours is usually sufficient. The airport is considered one of the most efficient in the region, so queues here move quite quickly.

The history of the main airport of Baku begins in the 1930s, when the first small airfield was built on this site. For a long time, it was known as Bina International Airport, named after the nearby settlement. During the Soviet period, it served as an important transport hub for the entire Caucasus region, but its modern appearance began to take shape only after Azerbaijan gained independence.

The first large-scale reconstruction was completed in 1999, when a new passenger terminal was opened. This event marked the beginning of a new era for the country's civil aviation. However, the real breakthrough was the radical modernization in the 2010s. In 2004, the airport received its current name in honor of Heydar Aliyev, the third president of Azerbaijan.

The most significant stage in the airport's development was the construction and opening in April 2014 of the new, ultra-modern Terminal 1. Its futuristic design, developed by the renowned architectural bureau Arup, featuring a triangular roof and unique wooden "cocoons" inside, instantly made it one of the most recognizable and beautiful airports in the world. The old terminal was renovated and now functions as Terminal 2, serving domestic and some international flights.

Among the airport's achievements are numerous awards. It has repeatedly been recognized as the best airport in Central Asia and the CIS by the prestigious consulting company Skytrax. Moreover, Heydar Aliyev Airport has become one of the few in the world to receive the maximum 5-Star rating from Skytrax, confirming the highest level of service, comfort, and cleanliness. This makes it not just a transport hub, but a true calling card of modern Baku.

Heydar Aliyev International Airport offers passengers world-class service and meticulously planned infrastructure, making the wait for a flight as comfortable as possible. The terminals house numerous cafés, bars, and restaurants for every taste — from fast food outlets to establishments offering national and international cuisine. For shopping enthusiasts, Duty Free shops operate with a wide assortment of perfumes, cosmetics, beverages, souvenirs, and local delicacies.

For those who value enhanced comfort, the airport features cozy business lounges and VIP lounges. Here you can relax in a quiet atmosphere, use shower facilities, and enjoy snacks and drinks. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and numerous charging stations for gadgets ensure you stay connected. Financial matters are easily resolved thanks to the presence of bank branches, ATMs, and 24/7 currency exchange points.

The airport cares for all categories of travelers. For passengers with children, there are equipped mother and child rooms and small play areas where little ones can entertain themselves before the flight. In case of necessity, one can visit the 24-hour medical point. A barrier-free environment has also been created, providing special services for passengers with reduced mobility to ensure their convenient movement through the terminal.

If you have a long layover or an early flight, you can stay at the Sheraton Baku Airport hotel, which is located in immediate proximity to the terminal. For business travelers, conference rooms and business centers equipped with everything necessary for meetings and negotiations are available right on the airport grounds.

At Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD), passengers have access to a diverse selection of cafés and restaurants, allowing for both a quick snack and a leisurely lunch while waiting for a flight. The majority of establishments are concentrated in Terminal 1, which serves international flights.

For those wishing to experience local cuisine, the airport hosts restaurants offering traditional Azerbaijani dishes. This is an excellent opportunity to taste authentic plov, juicy lula kebab, or dolma before departure. Most of these establishments are located airside, after passport control. In addition to national cuisine, European and Asian dishes are represented in various full-service restaurants.

If time is limited, numerous coffee shops and fast-food outlets are at your service. Here you can order fresh pastries, sandwiches, salads, and, of course, aromatic coffee or tea. Such cafés exist both landside (before check-in) and in the departure zone. This is the ideal option for a light breakfast or a quick bite.

Most establishments offer options for passengers with specific dietary preferences. You can find vegetarian dishes, as well as inquire about Halal or gluten-free options from the restaurant staff. Regarding prices, they range from moderate in food courts and coffee shops to higher in a la carte restaurants. The opening hours of establishments in the departure zone are usually aligned with the flight schedule, and many of them are open 24/7 to serve passengers of night and morning flights.

Traveling through Heydar Aliyev International Airport in the city of Baku, one of the most modern in the Caucasus, generally proceeds comfortably and without unnecessary hassle. To ensure your trip begins and ends on a positive note, take advantage of our tips.

Arrival Time and Check-in: For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2.5-3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights — 1.5-2 hours. This time is sufficient to calmly go through all procedures, even during peak hours. To save time, complete online check-in on your airline's website and, if you are traveling without luggage, proceed directly to passport control. Check-in and baggage drop-off counters work efficiently, but it is better to have a time buffer.

Security Control and Hand Luggage: Screening procedures are standard. Remember the restrictions on carrying liquids: no more than 100 ml in one container, packed in a transparent bag. Electronics (laptops, tablets) must be removed from bags. If you are bringing souvenirs from Azerbaijan, such as backgammon sets or other bulky items, check with the airline in advance if they can be taken as hand luggage.

Tips for Transit Passengers: Heydar Aliyev Airport is a convenient transit hub. For passengers with layovers, comfortable rest zones, cafés, and shops are provided. If you have a long layover, find out if you need a visa to exit into the city. You can quickly reach the center of Baku on the Aero Express bus, which departs directly from the terminal.

Customs Formalities: When departing the country, pay special attention to customs regulations. Cash currency exceeding the established limit must be declared. A key point for tourists is the export of carpets and carpet products. This requires a special certificate, which can usually be obtained at the shop upon purchase. Without it, you will not be able to export the carpet.

Economy and Convenience: The most budget-friendly way to get to the city or airport is the Aero Express bus. Free Wi-Fi is active throughout the airport, allowing you to stay connected. Prices in cafés and Duty Free shops may be higher than in the city, so compare them before making large purchases.

In Case of Flight Delay: If your flight is delayed, first contact your airline representative for information. Depending on the duration of the delay, you may be provided with drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation. At your service are numerous cafés, shops, and comfortable waiting halls where you can pass the time.