Zangilan

Zangilan International Airport is a modern air gateway to the south-western part of Azerbaijan, standing as a significant symbol of the region's revival. Opened in 2022, this airport is the second to be built in the restored territories and plays a key role in developing the transport infrastructure and tourism potential of Karabakh. Its contemporary design and advanced equipment make it not just a transport hub, but a starting point for exploring the unique nature and rich history of this land. Located in the strategically important East Zangezur Economic Region, it facilitates the region's integration into the international transport network.

Features and Advantages

Zangilan Airport is designed and built in accordance with the highest international standards. Its 3,000-metre runway is capable of accommodating all types of aircraft, including heavy wide-body and cargo planes. The terminal has a capacity of up to 200 passengers per hour and offers all necessary amenities for a comfortable journey, including a VIP lounge, a café, and a medical point. The airport apron is designed to service up to eight aircraft simultaneously. Equipped with modern navigation, instrument landing, and air traffic control systems from leading European manufacturers, it guarantees a high level of flight safety.

The strategic location of the airport makes it an important logistics hub, contributing to economic growth and tourism development in the region. For travellers, it offers a convenient opportunity to quickly and comfortably reach the unique natural and historical landmarks of Karabakh, which is being actively restored and opened to the world.

Zangilan International Airport (ZZE) is a new transport hub in Azerbaijan, and its contact information is primarily centralized through the airlines. Below are the most current ways for passengers to obtain information.

• Official Website: Currently, the airport does not have a separate website. All information regarding flight schedules, rules, and services should be verified on the official website of the airline you are flying with.
• Information Desk Phone: A direct phone number for the airport information desk is not published. For consultations regarding your flight, please contact your airline's call centre.
• Airport Address: Zangilan International Airport (Zəngilan Beynəlxalq Hava Limanı), Zangilan District, Azerbaijan. The airport serves the region, including the city of Gubadly.
• Email: There is no specialized email address for passengers. It is recommended to use contact forms or email addresses provided by your air carrier.
• Social Media: The airport does not maintain its own social media pages. Important updates are published on the official channels of airlines operating flights to Zangilan.
• Lost & Found Information: Issues regarding lost or damaged luggage are handled by airline representatives. If such a situation arises, please contact your airline's counter in the arrivals hall.
• Passenger Support Contacts: All passenger support — from ticket booking to assistance at the airport — is provided through airline service departments.

Zangilan International Airport (ZZE) is a new and modern transport hub serving the city of Gubadly and surrounding districts of Azerbaijan. As the region's infrastructure is actively developing, transport connections to the airport are constantly improving. Today, travellers have several convenient ways to reach the terminal.

Taxi and Transfer. This is the fastest and most predictable way to get to the airport. The journey from the city centre of Gubadly will take approximately 40-50 minutes. The estimated cost of a taxi ride is 15-25 Azerbaijani Manats (AZN), though it is always recommended to confirm the price with the driver before starting the journey. For greater convenience, especially if you are travelling with luggage or a group, you can book a private transfer at a fixed price in advance.

Public Transport. Currently, direct bus or rail connections to Zangilan Airport are in the formation stage. However, you can reach the city of Gubadly itself by intercity buses from major populated areas of Azerbaijan. From the bus station in the city to the airport, it is most convenient to take a local taxi.

Car Rental and Parking. For those who value independence and plan to travel extensively around the region, renting a car is an excellent solution. You can rent a car in the country's major cities and drive comfortably to the airport via new roads. Zangilan Airport features convenient parking. The estimated cost is 1-2 AZN per hour for short-term parking and about 10-15 AZN per day for long-term parking. This allows you to leave your vehicle without any issues for the duration of your trip.

If your itinerary allows for flexibility, it is worth considering other airports in the region. For example, Fuzuli International Airport is located approximately 70 km away, and Nakhchivan Airport is 110 km away. From there, you can reach your destination by ground transport after reviewing the available options.

Zangilan International Airport (ZZE) is a modern and compact aviation hub designed for passenger convenience. Its infrastructure is thought out to make pre-flight formalities and waiting for flights as quick and comfortable as possible.

Structure and Terminals

The airport consists of one passenger terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights. Thanks to this, there is no need for long transfers between different buildings — all zones are under one roof. The terminal layout is intuitive: departure and arrival zones are logically separated, preventing passenger flows from crossing and ensuring fast navigation.

Departure and Arrival Zones

Upon entering the terminal, you find yourself in the general area where check-in counters are located. After receiving a boarding pass and checking in luggage, passengers proceed to the security screening area, and then to the "secure area" (airside) for departures. Here you will find boarding gates, a small Duty Free shop, a café, and comfortable waiting lounges. The arrival zone is equipped with baggage claim belts and border control counters. Due to the compact size of the terminal, the path from the aircraft steps to the airport exit takes minimal time.

Formalities and Navigation

One of the main advantages of Zangilan Airport is the speed of procedures. Check-in and security screening typically take significantly less time than in major aviation hubs. It is recommended to arrive at the airport 2 hours before an international flight and 1.5 hours before a domestic flight to complete all formalities without rushing.

Navigation through the terminal is very simple. Clear signs in multiple languages are installed everywhere, and staff are always ready to help and direct you. Getting lost here is practically impossible, making travel through Zangilan Airport particularly convenient for families with children and elderly tourists.

The history of Zangilan International Airport (ZZE) is a story of rapid development and modern technology. Unlike many airports with a century-long past, this air harbour in the Zangilan district of Azerbaijan was built from scratch in record time. The airport became a crucial infrastructure project for the entire East Zangezur Economic Region, including the city of Gubadly.

Construction began in May 2021, and by 20 October 2022, the grand opening took place. The ceremony was attended by the heads of Azerbaijan and Turkey, highlighting the international significance of the project. The airport immediately received international status as it was designed and built in full compliance with high ICAO and IATA standards.

A key stage was the creation of a modern runway 3,000 metres in length. This allows the airport to accept all types of aircraft, including heavy transport planes, which is of strategic importance for the region's economic development. The airport terminal is designed to serve at least 200 passengers per hour, ensuring comfortable conditions for travellers.

Interesting fact: Zangilan is one of the newest airports built in the region recently, underscoring its role in the large-scale development of local infrastructure. Its creation is not just a reconstruction, but the full-scale erection of a modern transport hub that plays a key role in logistics, tourism development, and connecting the region with the rest of the world.

Zangilan International Airport (ZZE) is a new and modern transport hub designed with the basic needs of passengers in mind. Since the airport was opened recently, its infrastructure continues to actively develop, but today it already offers key services for a comfortable wait before departure.

Comfortable waiting lounges are equipped for passengers in the terminal. Here you can find places to have a snack or drink coffee, as well as make necessary purchases in shops. To ensure you always stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport territory, and charging stations for mobile devices are provided. ATMs are available for financial transactions.

Special attention is paid to the comfort of all categories of travellers. The airport operates a medical point where first aid can be obtained. For families with children, there is a mother and child room. Additionally, a modern barrier-free environment has been created, and assistance is provided for passengers with reduced mobility, ensuring them a safe and convenient stay at the airport.

Passengers travelling through Zangilan International Airport (ZZE) should keep in mind that this is one of the newest air ports in Azerbaijan. Its infrastructure, including food and beverage outlets, is still in the establishment phase. Therefore, the choice of venues here may be more modest compared to major international hubs, and currently, information about specific restaurants is limited.

Most likely, the main passenger terminal has at least one café or snack bar focused on serving passengers. Usually, such establishments are located in the "secure area" (airside), that is, after passing passport control and security screening. Here, travellers can purchase beverages, light snacks, and sandwiches before departure. This is an optimal option for a quick bite.

Although the assortment likely consists of standard international items, there is a chance to find elements of local cuisine. Look out for traditional Azerbaijani pastries or sweets that may be offered with tea. Aromatic black tea itself is an integral part of local hospitality, and it is definitely worth trying.

Passengers requiring a full lunch or dinner are recommended to eat beforehand, prior to arriving at the airport. Those adhering to a strict diet (for example, gluten-free or vegan) should also bring food with them, as the availability of specialized dishes in a small café is not guaranteed. The operating hours of food establishments at Zangilan Airport are generally tied to the flight schedule.

To ensure your journey from Zangilan Airport, located near the city of Gubadly, begins easily and pleasantly, it is worth familiarizing yourself with some advice in advance. These recommendations will help you save time, reduce stress, and make your stay at the airport as comfortable as possible.

Arrival Time at the Airport. The golden rule for any traveller is to arrive early. For international flights, it is recommended to arrive 2.5–3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights within Azerbaijan — 1.5–2 hours. This time buffer will allow you to check in, drop off luggage, pass security control, and walk to the boarding gate without rushing.

Check-in and Security Control. To save time, use online check-in for your flight, which most airlines offer. This will allow you to avoid queues at check-in counters. When passing through security, be ready to remove all electronic devices from your hand luggage, as well as place liquids in a separate bag.

Seat Selection on the Plane. During check-in, consider which seat will be more comfortable for you. A window seat offers beautiful views during take-off and landing. An aisle seat provides more legroom and the ability to stand up without disturbing your neighbours.

Hand Luggage. Remember standard restrictions: liquids can be carried in containers of no more than 100 ml, packed in a single transparent bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited. Always check the rules of the specific airline, as they may have their own particularities.

Transfer Passengers. If you have a connecting flight, verify in advance whether you will need to collect your luggage and check in for the next flight again. Ensure there is sufficient time between connecting flights, especially if a change of terminal is involved.

Customs Control. When passing customs, keep your passport, boarding pass, and other necessary documents ready. If you are carrying items subject to declaration, familiarize yourself with the rules beforehand and fill out a declaration if necessary. This will help avoid delays.

Saving Time and Money. Besides online check-in, packing a light snack (non-liquid) in advance and bringing an empty water bottle to fill after security can help save money. Prices in airport cafés and shops are generally higher.

Flight Delays. In case of a flight delay or cancellation, contact your airline representative immediately. Depending on the duration of the wait, you may be offered beverages, meals, or even hotel accommodation. Keep all receipts for unforeseen expenses so you can request compensation later.