Vitebsk Airport

Vitebsk Airport (Vostochny) is not merely a transport hub, but the air gateway to the cultural capital of Belarus and the city of the world-renowned "Slavianski Bazaar" festival. Located southeast of Vitebsk, it plays a key role in welcoming guests arriving for the country's main cultural event. Although the airport is not distinguished by gigantic dimensions, its compactness and well-thought-out infrastructure make passing through all pre-flight formalities quick and comfortable.

The main feature of Vitebsk Airport is its seasonal activity, which peaks during the "Slavianski Bazaar" festival. During this period, it receives numerous charter flights with artists and guests from various countries. The runway is capable of accommodating sufficiently large aircraft, ensuring flexibility in servicing various types of flights, including cargo.

The airport's advantages include its convenient location relative to the city and the absence of long queues typical of metropolises. For travellers, this means minimum stress and time savings. The terminal complex is equipped with everything necessary for waiting for a flight in comfort: there is a small waiting hall, a café, and information desks. This is an ideal choice for those who value tranquillity and are planning their journey to one of the most picturesque and historically rich cities in Belarus.

To contact representatives of Vitebsk Airport (VTB) and receive up-to-date information, please use the following contacts:

• Official Website: vitebsk.ban.by. Here you will find flight schedules, news, and general information about airport services.
• Inquiry Service Phone: +375 (212) 60-01-01. This is the main number for enquiries regarding flights, services, and passenger support.
• Address: Vitebsk Airport, 211322, Vitebsk District, Vitebsk Region, Belarus.
• Email: vitebsk@ban.by. Use this for official requests and correspondence.
• Social Media: The airport does not maintain active public pages on social networks to inform passengers. The official website remains the primary source of information.
• Lost & Found: In case of loss or damage to luggage, primarily contact the Lost & Found service of your airline directly at the airport. If an airline representative is not on site, contact the airport inquiry service to clarify further actions.

Vitebsk Airport (VTB) is located approximately 15 kilometres southeast of the centre of Vitebsk, one of the cultural centres of Belarus. You can reach the air harbour in several ways, the choice of which depends on your budget and preferences. On average, a trip from the city centre takes about 20-30 minutes by car.

The most budget-friendly way to get to the airport is to use public transport. Usually, a city bus runs along this route. The fare is incomparably lower than other options, making it an excellent choice for economical travellers. However, it is important to check the current schedule in advance, as trips may be infrequent and tied to aircraft departures and arrivals. There is no direct railway or metro connection to the airport.

The most comfortable and fastest option is a taxi or pre-booked transfer. A car can be called via one of the local apps or by phone. A taxi will take you from door to terminal without transfers, which is especially convenient if you have a lot of luggage. The cost of the trip will be significantly higher than by bus, but the predictability and convenience often justify the expense. For reference, the price will be comparable to the average cost of a taxi ride for a similar distance within the city limits. Pre-booking a transfer guarantees the availability of a car at the time you need at a fixed price, helping to avoid unexpected expenses.

If you are travelling in your own or a rented car, getting to the airport will not be difficult. The road from the city centre is well-marked with signs. For the convenience of motorists, parking is provided on the airport territory, where you can leave your car for both short and long periods. This is convenient for those dropping off or meeting passengers, as well as for those flying out for a few days.

To summarise, the transport accessibility of Vitebsk Airport allows you to easily plan your trip. For maximum savings, choose the bus, the fare for which is minimal, but do not forget to study its schedule beforehand. If speed and comfort are a priority, especially when travelling with children or bulky luggage, your choice is a taxi or transfer, despite the higher price. Travelling by private car is also a convenient alternative thanks to the availability of parking right at the terminal.

Vitebsk Airport (VTB) is a compact regional aviation hub, the structure of which is simple and intuitive even for those visiting for the first time. Thanks to its size, the airport offers fast and convenient passenger service without the unnecessary bustle typical of large international hubs.

The airport has one passenger terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights. It is a single-storey building where all key zones are within walking distance of each other. You will not have to worry about transfers between terminals, as all procedures — from check-in to boarding — take place in one location. The terminal layout is extremely simple: upon entering, you immediately find yourself in the general hall, where the check-in counters and waiting area are located.

The departure and arrival zones are clearly separated. After passing check-in and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed to pre-flight security screening, followed by a small waiting hall for departing flights. The arrival zone is located in another part of the building and includes a baggage claim belt and customs control counters for international flights. Navigation through the terminal will not cause difficulties thanks to clear signs.

One of the main advantages of Vitebsk Airport is the speed of completing all formalities. Flight check-in and security screening usually take significantly less time than at major airports. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport as standard: 1.5–2 hours before the departure of an international flight and approximately 1–1.5 hours before a domestic flight, to calmly go through all procedures without rushing.

The history of Vitebsk Airport (VTB), also known as "Vostochny", is closely linked to the development of the city as a major industrial and cultural centre of Belarus. The decision to build a new air harbour was made during the Soviet era to replace the old airfield, which could no longer cope with growing needs and accept modern jet aircraft.

The official opening of the airport took place in 1978. The new terminal complex and runway were designed to service aircraft such as the Tu-134 and Yak-40. In the 1980s, the airport experienced its heyday: regular flights were operated from here to many cities of the Soviet Union, including Moscow, Leningrad, Kiev, as well as to popular Black Sea resorts. It was an important transport hub for the entire region.

A new stage in the airport's history began after it gained international status in 1996. This event required significant modernisation of the infrastructure: the runway was reconstructed, navigation equipment was updated, and the terminal was improved to service international flights. Since then, the airport has started accepting charter flights, mainly to popular tourist destinations.

The airport of Vitebsk plays a special role during the International Festival of Arts "Slavianski Bazaar". Annually in July, it becomes the main air gateway for thousands of guests, artists, and official delegations from different countries of the world, receiving numerous special and charter flights. This annual tradition is one of the main events in the life of the airport and a vivid fact of its modern history.

Vitebsk Airport (Vostochny) is a compact regional air hub offering passengers all necessary services for waiting for a flight in comfort. Although the airport cannot boast a wide variety of entertainment, conditions for a convenient stay have been created here. Before departure, you can have a snack in the café or purchase souvenirs as a memento of your trip to Belarus.

A general waiting hall is equipped in the terminal building. For passengers preferring enhanced comfort, a superior comfort lounge is provided, where one can relax in a quieter atmosphere. Free Wi-Fi is available within the terminal, and there are power outlets for charging electronic devices. Financial transactions can be made at the currency exchange point or by using an ATM.

The airport cares for all categories of travellers. A mother and child room is equipped for passengers with children, where you can feed and change a baby in a calm environment. In case of necessity, you can contact the medical centre operating within the terminal. Passengers with limited physical mobility are provided with all necessary assistance when passing pre-flight formalities and boarding — it is recommended to notify the airline in advance for this.

There are no hotels directly on the airport territory, however, travellers can easily find suitable accommodation options in Vitebsk itself, which can be quickly reached by taxi or public transport. Specialised business centres or conference halls are absent in the airport, but similar services are provided by many hotels in the city.

Vitebsk Airport (VTB) is a compact regional terminal, so the choice of dining establishments here is limited. Nevertheless, passengers have the opportunity to have a snack and drink hot beverages while waiting for their flight.

In the main terminal building, in the public zone (before security control), a café-buffet operates. Here you can order coffee, tea, juices, as well as choose something for a light snack: sandwiches, fresh pastries, chocolate, and other snacks. The assortment is not very wide, but sufficient to satisfy hunger before a flight. Sometimes simple dishes of Belarusian cuisine may be on the menu, but one should not count on a large selection. After passing security in the departure zone, a small counter serving beverages and packaged snacks may be open.

For a full lunch or dinner, it is better to choose one of the establishments in Vitebsk itself, as there are no restaurants with a set menu at the airport. Passengers with special dietary requirements (vegetarians, vegans, or those seeking Halal options) will find it difficult to find suitable dishes, so it is recommended to bring food with you. The café at the airport is perfect for a quick snack, but not for a substantial meal.

It should be noted that the opening hours of catering establishments at Vitebsk Airport depend directly on the flight schedule. They open a few hours before departure and stop working after the aircraft departs. Prices here are slightly higher than in the city, which is standard practice for airport terminals.

To ensure your journey through Vitebsk Airport goes smoothly, make use of our tips. We recommend arriving at the airport at least 2 hours before the departure of international flights and 1.5 hours before domestic ones. Since this is a small airport, queues here are usually shorter, but extra time will help avoid unnecessary stress.

Check-in and security control procedures at Vitebsk Airport usually proceed quickly. To save time, check in for your flight online if your airline provides such an option. When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences: a window seat will offer beautiful views during take-off and landing, while an aisle seat allows you to stand up freely during the flight.

When packing hand luggage, remember the general rules: liquids are allowed in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. It is prohibited to carry sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances. Passengers with transfers should clarify with the airline in advance whether they will need to collect and re-check luggage at the transit airport.

When passing through customs control in Belarus, be prepared to declare large sums of cash and certain goods if their value exceeds established limits. To save money, bring an empty water bottle with you, which can be filled after security screening, and light snacks, as the selection in a small airport may be limited.

In case of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative for up-to-date information. Remain calm and follow updates on the information boards. Depending on the duration of the delay, the airline may be obliged to provide you with beverages, meals, or even accommodation in a hotel.