Uralsk Airport

Manshuk Mametova International Airport Uralsk is the main air gateway of Western Kazakhstan, connecting the region with the country's major cities and international destinations. Following a large-scale reconstruction completed in 2022, the airport has transformed into a modern and comfortable complex that meets international IATA standards. The new terminal has significantly increased capacity, creating excellent conditions for a pleasant start and end to your journey. The airport aims to become an important regional hub, constantly working on expanding its route network.

The modern Uralsk airport offers passengers a high level of comfort and service. After reconstruction, its capacity grew to 400 passengers per hour, and the terminal area increased to 10,000 square metres. For the convenience of travellers, self-service check-in kiosks and baggage drop-off points are installed here, which significantly saves time. Passengers have access to free Wi-Fi, a mother and child room, a prayer room, and a comfortable CIP lounge. Additionally, the airport operates under an "Open Skies" regime, which helps attract new airlines and open more international flights.

• Official website: ural-airport.kz
• Help desk phone: +7 (7112) 98-31-31
• Airport address: Republic of Kazakhstan, West Kazakhstan Region, Baiterek District, Podstepnoye village, Airport Building
• Email: info@ural-airport.kz
• Social media: Official Instagram page — @aqjaiyq_airport
• Lost luggage information: For baggage tracing issues, you should first contact your airline's representative office. You can also contact the airport's unclaimed baggage room by phone: +7 (7112) 98-31-09.
• Passenger support contacts: For consultations and assistance with general questions, you can contact the help desk at +7 (7112) 98-31-31.

There are several ways to get to Uralsk Airport (also known as Ak Zhol), which is located approximately 18 km from the city centre of Uralsk. The choice depends on your budget, amount of luggage, and the time available to you.

The most budget-friendly option is public transport. Bus No. 12 runs from the city to the airport. The route passes through key points of the city, including the railway station. The trip will take approximately 40–50 minutes, but please note that the bus can be crowded during peak hours. The fare is minimal, making this method attractive for those travelling light.

The most convenient and fastest way is taxi or pre-booked transfer. A car ride from the central part of Uralsk will take about 20–30 minutes. Popular taxi-hailing mobile apps operate in the city, allowing you to calculate the cost in advance and guaranteeing a comfortable ride. This option is ideal if you are travelling with bulky luggage or with family. Booking a transfer in advance will allow you to start your journey through Kazakhstan as calmly as possible.

For those who value freedom of movement, car rental is an excellent solution. Several rental company offices are represented in Uralsk. With a car, you can not only get to the airport without problems but also explore the picturesque surroundings. If you are arriving in your own vehicle, there is a paid parking lot on the airport territory offering both short-term and long-term parking.

So, when choosing transport to Uralsk airport, be guided by your needs. The bus is suitable for saving money, the taxi — for comfort and speed, and a rented car — for independence. We recommend leaving with time to spare to avoid rushing and to start your trip in a good mood.

The airport of Uralsk (URA) is a modern and compact aviation hub. Following recent reconstruction, the airport operates one new passenger terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights. Its well-thought-out structure makes navigation simple and convenient for all categories of travellers.

The terminal layout is logical and intuitive. The building has two main floors:

• Ground floor (First floor) is dedicated to the arrivals area. Here you will find flight check-in counters, the baggage claim area, and the main hall for greeters.
• Second floor is the departure zone. After check-in, passengers go up here to pass pre-flight security and passport control (for international flights), after which they enter a comfortable waiting lounge with boarding gates.

Since the airport operates a single terminal, transitions between different zones take place within one building, eliminating the need for shuttles or long walks. Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated by floors, so passenger flows do not intersect, making the stay at the airport more comfortable. It is practically impossible to get lost here.

Thanks to the compactness of the terminal and modern equipment, check-in and security checks usually take little time. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance: 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight and 2.5-3 hours before an international one. This time will be enough to check in luggage without haste, complete all formalities, and relax before the flight in the waiting lounge, where there are cafes and small shops.

The history of Uralsk Airport (URA) is a vivid example of the development of regional aviation in Kazakhstan. Its journey began back in the 1930s with the appearance of a small airstrip for the needs of air ambulance and postal services. For a long time, it remained a modest airfield, but with the growth of the industrial and economic importance of the region, the need for more serious infrastructure arose.

A key stage in development was the period of the 1970s, when the first concrete runway and terminal building were built. This allowed for the reception of larger aircraft, such as the Yak-40 and An-24, and the establishment of regular air connections with other cities of the Soviet Union. For the residents of Western Kazakhstan, the airport became the most important air gateway connecting them with the rest of the country.

After the dissolution of the USSR, like many infrastructure facilities, the airport went through difficult times. However, in the late 1990s and early 2000s, the first significant reconstruction was carried out, allowing it to be kept in working condition. A real breakthrough in the modern history of the airport was the large-scale modernization of 2021–2022. Within its framework, a completely new passenger terminal was built, meeting all international standards.

Interesting fact: the new terminal was named after Manshuk Mametova — a heroine of the Second World War, a machine gunner born in the West Kazakhstan region. This is a tribute to the history and heroic past of the region. Today, Uralsk Airport is a modern transport hub with a capacity of up to 400 passengers per hour, playing a key role in ensuring transport accessibility for the western part of Kazakhstan and continuing to develop, opening new destinations for travellers.

Uralsk Airport (URA) is a modern and compact terminal where passengers will find all the necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its small size, the terminal offers key amenities consistent with the standards of regional air harbours in Kazakhstan.

Cafes operate within the terminal where you can have a full lunch or grab a light snack, as well as drink coffee before departure. In addition, the airport has several shops offering souvenirs, travel goods, and local products.

A general waiting hall is equipped for all passengers. Those who prefer privacy and extra service can use the VIP lounge for an additional fee. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and special stands and sockets are provided in the waiting halls for charging gadgets, allowing you to always stay connected.

A medical point is located in the terminal building, where first aid will be provided if necessary. ATMs and a currency exchange office are installed for financial operations. Families with children can use the specially equipped mother and child room, where all conditions are created for a comfortable stay with little ones.

A barrier-free environment has been created for passengers with reduced mobility, and airport staff are ready to provide the necessary assistance during boarding and disembarking. Since there are no hotels directly on the airport territory, travellers can stay in one of the city's hotels, which can be quickly reached by taxi. Separate conference rooms are not provided in the terminal building, but basic conditions for work can be found in the VIP lounge.

Uralsk Airport (URA), being a compact regional hub, offers passengers basic but convenient dining options. The main catering points are concentrated in the main and only terminal, so finding them will not be difficult.

In the public area of the airport, before passport control and security, the main cafe usually operates. This is the best place for a full meal. Here you can order hot dishes, soups, salads, and snacks. The menu typically includes popular dishes of European and local cuisine. If you are lucky, you can try something from the traditional cuisine of Kazakhstan, for example, hearty pastries like samsa. This establishment is suitable for both a leisurely lunch and a quick snack like a sandwich with coffee.

After passing security control, in the so-called "clean zone" of departures, the choice is usually more modest. A small buffet or coffee kiosk may be located here, offering drinks, pastries, chocolate, and light snacks. Vending machines with drinks and snacks are also often installed in the waiting lounge — an ideal option if there is very little time left before boarding.

Passengers with special dietary requirements (vegans, vegetarians, or those on a gluten-free diet) should be prepared for a limited selection. It is recommended to check the ingredients of dishes with the cafe staff or, to be sure, bring necessary snacks with you. As for prices, they are considered moderate at Uralsk Airport, especially in comparison with major international hubs. It is important to remember that catering establishments operate in accordance with the flight schedule and may be closed at night or during quiet periods.

To ensure your journey through the airport of Uralsk goes smoothly and without unnecessary worry, we have collected a few useful tips. When planning your departure, arrive at the airport in advance: approximately 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one. This time will be enough to calmly pass all pre-flight formalities, even if small queues arise.

To save time, use online check-in for your flight if your airline provides such an option. This will allow you to go straight to baggage drop-off or, if you are travelling light, to the security screening area. Security control at Uralsk Airport is standard: be prepared to remove electronic devices, metal objects, and containers with liquids from your hand luggage.

The choice of seat on the plane depends on your preferences. A seat by the window will give beautiful views during takeoff and landing, while a seat by the aisle offers more legroom and the ability to stand up freely. If a quick exit upon arrival is important to you, choose seats in the front part of the cabin.

Pay special attention to the contents of your hand luggage. It is prohibited to bring liquids in containers larger than 100 ml into the aircraft cabin (the total volume must not exceed 1 litre per passenger), as well as sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances. All liquids must be packed in a transparent resealable bag.

Conversely, it is recommended to put all your most valuable items in your hand luggage: documents, money, bank cards, gadgets, a portable charger, and necessary medicines. A small set of change of clothes in case of baggage delay will also not go amiss.

If you have a connecting flight, check in advance whether you need to collect your luggage at the intermediate airport or if it will be automatically transferred to the next flight. Find out the gate number for your next flight segment immediately upon arrival to avoid rushing.

When passing through customs control in Kazakhstan, as in most countries, a system of "green" and "red" channels operates. If you do not have goods subject to mandatory declaration (for example, large sums of cash or cultural valuables), feel free to go through the "green" channel. Otherwise, it is necessary to fill out a declaration and pass through the "red" channel.

To save money, book flight tickets in advance and consider travelling to the airport by public transport or hailing a taxi via an app, rather than using the services of private drivers at the terminal. By taking non-liquid snacks with you (for example, nuts or biscuits), you can avoid unnecessary expenses at airport cafes.

In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative. Depending on the length of the wait, you may be provided with drinks, hot meals, and, in some cases, hotel accommodation. Be sure to keep all receipts for forced expenses — they may be needed to receive compensation.