Aktau International Airport

Aktau International Airport (IATA: SCO) is the main air gateway to the Mangystau Region and one of the most vital transport hubs in western Kazakhstan. Located on the coast of the Caspian Sea, it serves as a link between Asia and Europe. The airport opened in 1983, and in 2009 it acquired a new modern terminal, which significantly increased the level of comfort for passengers. Thanks to its location on flat terrain and a runway built taking the wind rose into account, the airport enjoys favourable weather conditions for flights for more than 300 days a year.

Aktau Airport rightly takes pride in its modern infrastructure. Its terminal, with a capacity of 450 people per hour, is equipped with telescopic jet bridges, lifts, escalators, and electronic check-in systems, making the control process fast and convenient. The airport complex offers passengers all necessary services: from comfortable waiting lounges, including VIP and CIP zones, to a mother and child room, a medical centre, and free Wi-Fi. The airfield is capable of receiving almost all types of aircraft, including giants like the An-225 "Mriya", which landed here in 2011. The airport has repeatedly been awarded the title of one of the best and most promising in the CIS countries.

Below is the contact information for Aktau International Airport (SCO), which will help you plan your trip and promptly resolve any issues.

• Official Website: You can find all current information about flights, services, and airport regulations on the official website www.aktau-airport.kz.
• Inquiry Service Phone: For immediate information, you can call the numbers: +7 (7292) 60-97-55 or +7 (7292) 60-97-44.
• Address: Aktau International Airport, Mangystau Region, 130000, Kazakhstan.
• Email: For written inquiries and requests, please use the e-mail: info@aktau-airport.kz.
• Social Media: Follow news and announcements on the airport's official pages on Instagram and Facebook.
• Lost & Found Information: In case of loss or damage to luggage, please contact the tracing service by phone: +7 (7292) 60-97-28.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For all questions related to service, you can contact the airport inquiry desk.

Aktau International Airport (SCO) is located approximately 25-30 kilometres from the city centre, making the journey there quick and convenient. You can reach the airport in several ways, suitable for any budget and travel plan.

Public Transport is the most economical option. City bus No. 3 runs to the airport, departing from residential districts and passing through the central part of Aktau. The bus journey takes about 50–60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. This method is ideal for tourists travelling light who wish to save money. It is recommended to check the schedule in advance and allow extra time for waiting.

Taxi and Transfer is the most comfortable and fastest way to get to the terminal. A car journey from the city centre to the airport takes on average 30–40 minutes. Popular taxi booking services via mobile apps operate actively in the city, where the cost of the trip is known in advance. You can also book a private transfer — this is especially convenient for families with children or travellers with a large amount of luggage.

Car Rental provides complete freedom of movement and is excellent for those planning to actively explore not only the city but also the unique landscapes of the Mangystau Region. You can rent a car both in the city and directly at the airport upon arrival. This allows you not to depend on transport schedules and to travel at your own pace.

For travellers with their own vehicles, parking is provided at the airport. Both short-term parking for quick drop-offs and pick-ups, and long-term parking zones where you can safely leave your car for the entire duration of your absence, are available.

Aktau International Airport (SCO) features a modern structure that is easy for passengers to navigate. The airport operates one main passenger terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights. This significantly simplifies navigation, as you do not have to move between different buildings.

The terminal layout is intuitive. Generally, the ground floor houses check-in counters, the arrivals area, and baggage claim. After checking in for a flight, passengers proceed to the first floor, where the security screening area, passport control, and the main departure lounge with boarding gates are located. Thanks to its compactness and well-thought-out logistics, it is practically impossible to get lost here. All signage is duplicated in Russian and English.

Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated. In the departure zone, after completing all formalities, passengers enter a comfortable waiting hall featuring Duty Free shops, cafes, and seating areas. The arrival zone includes passport control (for international flights), baggage carousels, and the customs channel. No transfer between zones is required as everything is located in one building.

Completing all pre-flight procedures at Aktau Airport usually takes less time than in major global hubs. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance: 2-2.5 hours before an international flight and 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight. This time will be sufficient to check in, drop off luggage, and pass through security screening without haste.

The history of Aktau International Airport (SCO) is inextricably linked with the development of the entire Mangystau region of Kazakhstan. The airport was founded and opened in 1983, during the Soviet period, when the city was named Shevchenko. Initially, its main task was to provide transport connections for the rapidly growing industrial centre on the Mangyshlak Peninsula, which was key for mineral extraction.

After Kazakhstan gained independence and the city was renamed Aktau, the airport began a new chapter in its history. It received international status, which opened prospects for direct air communication with other countries. This stage was critically important for integrating the oil and gas-rich region into the global economy and attracting foreign investment and specialists.

A key moment in the airport's development was the large-scale reconstruction that began in 2007. In 2009, a new, modern passenger terminal, built with private investment, was ceremoniously opened. Its area covered 13,400 square metres, and its capacity grew to 450 passengers per hour. Modernisation also affected the runway, allowing it to accept larger types of aircraft, including the Boeing 747.

One of the main achievements of Aktau Airport is its transformation into one of the most modern and busy aviation hubs in the country. In terms of passenger traffic, it consistently ranks among the top three leaders of Kazakhstan's airports. It is not just a transport facility, but a strategic gateway for the oil and gas industry and an important element for the development of tourism on the Caspian Sea coast.

Among interesting facts from the airport's history, it is worth noting that it became one of the first in Kazakhstan to be transferred to the management of a private investor. This step allowed for rapid and effective modernisation. Today, Aktau Airport is not only a symbol of the region's economic growth but also an example of the successful development of aviation infrastructure in the country.

Aktau International Airport (SCO) offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. It is a modern and convenient aviation hub where the needs of various categories of travellers are considered.

Inside the terminal, you will find several cafes and restaurants where you can have a snack before departure, enjoying dishes of local and international cuisine, or simply have a cup of coffee. Shops are open, including Duty Free, where you can purchase souvenirs, travel essentials, perfumes, and local delicacies. For those who value enhanced comfort, VIP and Business Lounges are available, offering a private atmosphere, complimentary snacks, beverages, and fresh press.

Staying connected is easy — free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and charging stations for electronic devices are provided in the waiting halls. For financial matters, ATMs and currency exchange points are at your service, where you can exchange money upon arrival or before departure.

The airport cares for all passengers. For travellers with small children, a mother and child room is equipped, where you can feed and change your baby in a quiet environment. If necessary, you can contact the 24-hour medical point. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with special assistance and escort, and the terminal infrastructure is adapted for their convenience.

If you have a long layover or an early flight, several hotels are located near the airport. For business travellers, conference room services and work areas may be available in the business lounges, allowing you to hold a meeting or work while waiting for your flight.

At Aktau International Airport (SCO), passengers can find several convenient options for a snack or a full meal before departure. Although the choice of establishments is not as vast as in major hubs, there is everything necessary to spend time comfortably while waiting for a flight.

The main cafes and restaurants are located in the general hall of the passenger terminal, before passport control and security screening (landside zone). This is the most convenient place for those who want to have a leisurely lunch with people seeing them off. For example, the "Shanyrak" cafe is located here, offering dishes of European and national cuisine. After passing through control (in the airside zone), the choice is generally more limited and consists of small coffee shops, snack counters, or vending machines where you can buy drinks and snacks.

For a quick snack, local coffee shops are perfect, where you can order sandwiches, fresh pastries, and desserts. If you have time for a full lunch, take a look at the menu of the main cafe. Travelling through Kazakhstan, it is worth looking for local cuisine dishes on the menu — perhaps you will manage to try traditional baursaks or a hearty soup. Most establishments offer Halal dishes. Vegetarians generally have access to salads, side dishes, and pastries, though the selection may be limited. Specialised vegan or gluten-free options are rarely found.

The price range in airport establishments can be described as average and above average, which is standard practice for air terminals. Most cafes and snack bars operate in accordance with the flight schedule, opening a few hours before the first departure and closing after the last one. Some outlets may operate around the clock, especially if the airport receives night flights.

To ensure your journey through Aktau International Airport runs as smoothly as possible, it is worth familiarising yourself with a few useful tips in advance. As in most airports, it is recommended to arrive early: 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international ones. This time is usually sufficient to complete all pre-flight formalities without haste, even during periods of high traffic.

To save time, take advantage of the online check-in option offered by many airlines. This will allow you to choose a seat on the plane and receive your boarding pass in advance. If you are travelling with hand luggage only, you can proceed directly to security screening. 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 without disturbing your neighbours.

Check your hand luggage carefully. Remember the standard restrictions: liquids can be carried in containers of no more than 100 ml each, packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited. To save money, take an empty water bottle with you — after passing security, it can be filled at a drinking water fountain.

If you have a connecting flight, check in advance whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage at the intermediate airport. Customs control at Aktau Airport is mandatory for passengers on international flights. Have your passport and boarding pass ready. If you are carrying goods subject to declaration, proceed through the "Red Channel". For most tourists flying from Kazakhstan, the "Green Channel" will be sufficient.

In case of a flight delay or cancellation, contact your airline representative immediately. Depending on the length of the delay, you may be provided with drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation. Remain calm and clarify your rights as a passenger. A thoughtful approach to planning will help avoid stress and make the start of your journey pleasant and comfortable.