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Kaunas Airport

About the Airport

Kaunas Airport. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars
Kaunas Airport (KUN) is not merely a transit point, but a cozy aerial gateway into the very heart of Lithuania, situated near the picturesque settlement of Karmėlava. Frequently chosen by experienced travellers as a smart alternative to the capital's airport, it offers a tranquil atmosphere and maximally swift pre-flight procedures. Here, the journey begins without the hustle characteristic of giant terminals, allowing you to tune into the Baltic rhythm from the very first minutes.
IATA Code KUN
ICAO Code EYKA
City Kaunas
Distance to Centre 14 km
Status International
Passengers per Year 1.32 million (2023)
Schedule Seasonal and regular
### Features and Advantages of the Airport Kaunas Airport is the second busiest civil airport in Lithuania, yet it is often referred to as "home-like" due to its compactness and convenience. It has become a true hub for budget airlines, making it an ideal choice for economical tourists wishing to explore the Baltic states. * **Ideal for Low-Cost Carriers:** This is the main base for Ryanair in the region, ensuring numerous direct and affordable flights across Europe. * **Compactness and Speed:** The terminal is small, so getting lost here is impossible, and passing through security and passport control takes mere minutes. * **Convenient Logistics:** The airport is located right by the main A6 highway. You can reach the city centre by bus No. 29 in just 30-40 minutes, while a trip by taxi or via apps (Bolt/Uber) will take about 20 minutes. * **Affordable Parking:** Compared to the capital, Vilnius, leaving your car here for a long period is significantly cheaper, which is appreciated by travellers driving their own vehicles.

Contact Information

Below you will find useful contact details that may be necessary when planning your trip through Kaunas Airport.

  • Official Website: You can always find the most up-to-date information on flights, services, and regulations on the official airport website: www.kaunas-airport.lt/ru/
  • Information Service Phone: For prompt information and inquiries, you can call: +370 612 44442.
  • Airport Address: Oro uosto g. 4, Karmėlava, 54460 Kauno r. sav., Lithuania.
  • Email: For general questions, you can contact: info@ltou.lt.
  • Social Media: Kaunas Airport is part of Lithuanian Airports; you can follow news on their general pages, for example, on Facebook.
  • Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you should immediately contact the Lost & Found service of your airline or its representative at the airport. Contacts are usually located in the baggage claim area.
  • Passenger Support: For most questions related to your stay at the airport, the general information service at the phone number listed above can assist you.

How to Get to the Airport

Getting to Kaunas Airport (KUN), located approximately 14 km northeast of the city centre, is possible via several convenient methods. The most budget-friendly and popular option is public transport. Express bus No. 29G runs directly from the central railway station of Kaunas to the airport. The journey takes about 40-50 minutes depending on traffic conditions. During night hours, passengers are served by route No. 29E. Tickets can be purchased at kiosks, from the driver, or via a mobile app.

For travellers heading to other cities in Lithuania or neighbouring countries, there are special express coaches. Companies such as Ollex or Flybus provide direct connections between Kaunas Airport and major cities, including Vilnius, Klaipėda, and even the capital of Latvia — Riga. This is especially convenient if you are flying into Kaunas but plan to travel across the entire region.

A faster and more comfortable way to reach the terminal is to order a taxi or use transfer services. A trip from the city centre will take just 20-30 minutes. This is an ideal choice for those travelling with a large amount of luggage, with small children, or arriving/departing early in the morning or late at night. Popular taxi-hailing apps operate in the city, allowing you to know the cost of the trip in advance.

If you value independence and plan to move around the country extensively, consider car rental. Desks of international and local rental companies are located right in the airport building. For those arriving in their own vehicle, several parking lots are provided on the airport territory: short-term (P1) and long-term (P2, P3). It is recommended to book a parking space online to get a more favourable rate.

It is worth noting that many travellers also arrive at neighbouring major aviation hubs, such as Vilnius International Airport (about 86 km away) or Riga International Airport (about 218 km away), from where Kaunas can be easily reached by the intercity buses mentioned above. This expands possibilities when planning your travel itinerary.

Terminals and Map

Kaunas Airport (KUN) is distinguished by its compactness and efficiency, making it very convenient for travellers. All passenger operations are concentrated in one modern terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights, including Schengen and non-Schengen zones.

The structure of the terminal is intuitive and simple. The building has three main levels:

  • Ground Floor (Level 1): Here you will find the arrivals area, flight check-in counters, and baggage drop-off points. After retrieving their suitcases, passengers exit immediately into the general hall.
  • Second Floor (Level 2): This is the departure zone. After ascending here following check-in, you pass through security control and, if necessary, passport control. Immediately beyond them lies the waiting hall with boarding gates, Duty-Free shops, and cafes.
  • Third Floor (Level 3): Located on this floor are administrative offices, a business lounge, and a viewing deck offering a view of the runway.

Since there is only one terminal in the airport, there is no need for transfers between buildings. All zones — from check-in to boarding gates — are located in one building within walking distance of each other. Navigation is extremely simple thanks to clear signs in Lithuanian and English.

Passing through all pre-flight procedures at Kaunas Airport usually takes significantly less time than in large hub airports. On average, check-in and security screening take from 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the load. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport generally 1.5-2 hours before departure to complete all formalities without rushing.

Airport History

The history of Kaunas Airport (KUN) began relatively recently, but it is rich with significant stages of development. The airport was built and opened in 1988 in the locality of Karmėlava, approximately 14 km northeast of the city centre. Its main task was to replace the old S. Darius and S. Girėnas Aerodrome, which was located within the city limits and had no possibilities for runway expansion.

After the restoration of Lithuania's independence in the early 1990s, the airport began a new life. In 1993, it was granted international status, opening doors for flights outside the country. In 1996, Kaunas Airport became a member of the Airports Council International (ACI). However, the real breakthrough in its development occurred in the 21st century. A key moment was the opening of a new modern passenger terminal in 2008, which allowed for a significant increase in capacity and improved passenger service quality.

A turning point in the airport's history was 2010, when the Irish budget airline Ryanair chose Kaunas as its first base in the Baltic states. This decision radically changed the airport's status, turning it into a major hub for low-cost transportation in the region. Passenger traffic increased sharply, and the route network expanded to dozens of destinations across Europe.

Another interesting fact in the airport's history occurred in the summer of 2017. During the reconstruction of the runway in Vilnius, Kaunas Airport temporarily became the main aerial gateway of Lithuania. It successfully handled the increased load, accepting the majority of flights diverted from the capital and proving its high operational readiness. Since then, the airport continues to modernize, expanding the apron and improving infrastructure to welcome an increasing number of passengers and aircraft.

Services and Amenities

Kaunas Airport (KUN) is a modern and convenient transport hub in Lithuania, offering passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. In the terminal, you will find several cafes and dining spots where you can have a snack or drink coffee, as well as shops, including Duty Free with a wide assortment of perfumes, confectionery, and souvenirs.

For those who wish to stay connected or work, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. Special zones with power outlets for charging electronic devices are also equipped. If you value enhanced comfort, the business lounge is at your service. Here, in a tranquil setting, you can relax, enjoy snacks and beverages, read the latest press, or work in silence.

Financial matters are easily resolved at the airport: ATMs and currency exchange points are in operation. In case of need, there is a first aid station in the terminal, ready to assist passengers in unforeseen situations.

For travellers with small children, mother and child rooms are provided, equipped with changing tables and everything necessary for baby care. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with special assistance — from meeting upon arrival at the airport to boarding the aircraft. To use this service, it is recommended to notify the airline at least 48 hours before departure.

Business travellers can utilise the services of a conference hall for meetings and negotiations. Although there are no hotels directly within the terminal building, several hotels of various price categories are located in the immediate vicinity of the airport, which can be quickly reached by taxi or shuttle, making it especially convenient for transit passengers or those with an early departure.

Where to Eat

At Kaunas Airport (KUN), travellers will find several options for a snack or a full meal, located in both the general area and the departure zone. Although the selection of establishments is not comparable to large international hubs, one can spend time comfortably here while waiting for a flight.

In the public zone (landside), before passing security control, several cafes are in operation. This is a convenient option for those seeing someone off or those who have just arrived in Lithuania. Here you can drink a cup of aromatic coffee with fresh pastries or order a light sandwich.

The main part of the establishments is located in the sterile zone (airside), after passing all pre-flight formalities. In the departure hall, there are cafes and lounges where you can relax before boarding. For example, popular chains such as Crustum or Coffee Hill offer a wide assortment of beverages, desserts, salads, and hot snacks like pizza or panini. This is an excellent place for both a quick bite and a more leisurely meal.

Although there are no specialised restaurants with local cuisine in the airport, echoes of Lithuanian culinary traditions can be found in the cafe menus, such as various pies or desserts. Passengers with special dietary needs, for example, vegetarians, will easily find suitable dishes among salads and pastries. It is best to check for vegan or gluten-free options directly with the cafe staff.

The price range in the airport establishments is average, typical for European air harbours. Most cafes and dining outlets operate in accordance with the flight schedule — opening with the first departures and closing after the departure of the last aircraft, which guarantees the availability of food at practically any time.

Travel Tips

Travelling through Kaunas Airport (KUN) usually proceeds easily and without hassle, as it is a modern and compact airport. However, a few tips will help make your trip even more comfortable and predictable.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For international flights (especially outside the Schengen zone), it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2-2.5 hours before departure. For domestic or Schengen flights, 1.5-2 hours is sufficient. To save time, use online check-in, which is offered by most airlines. This will allow you to head straight to baggage drop (if you have any) or to security control.

Passing Control and Seat Selection. Security control at Kaunas Airport is organised efficiently. Be prepared in advance to place laptops, tablets, and liquids in the tray. Beverages and gels in hand luggage must be in containers up to 100 ml and packed in a transparent bag. When choosing a seat on the plane, remember: a window seat is for view lovers, an aisle seat is for those who want to stand up freely during the flight.

Customs and Transfers. Since Lithuania is part of the EU, customs control for flights within the European Union is formal in nature. If you are arriving from a country outside the EU, be prepared for standard questions and potential screening. If you have a connecting flight in Kaunas, ensure you have enough time between flights, especially if passport control is required (for example, when transferring from a non-Schengen flight to a Schengen one).

Tips for Saving. To save money, book parking online in advance — it is often cheaper. Bring an empty reusable water bottle and fill it after passing security control. Prices for food and beverages in the airport are generally higher, so you can bring allowed snacks with you (for example, nuts or bars).

In Case of Flight Delay. If your flight is delayed, follow the information on the departure boards and in your airline's app. Airline representatives at the airport should provide up-to-date information. Remember that on flights departing from the EU, your rights are protected by regulation EC 261/2004, which provides for the provision of meals, beverages, and, if necessary, accommodation during lengthy delays.

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