Ugolny

Ugolny International Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a true gateway to one of the most enigmatic and rugged regions on the planet. Upon arrival, travellers immediately feel the breath of the Arctic: the terminal stands on permafrost, and the windows offer views of the boundless tundra and hills. The uniqueness of this air harbour lies not only in its strategic importance but also in the fact that the journey from the terminal to the city becomes a separate adventure involving crossing a water barrier. Here begins your acquaintance with Chukotka, where modern aviation technologies coexist with pristine nature.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

Ugolny Airport possesses a number of unique characteristics that make it a crucial object on the map of the Far East:

• Strategic Runway: The airport's runway is one of the longest in the region (3.5 km). It was built with the capacity to handle heavy strategic bombers and the "Buran" spacecraft, so today it is capable of receiving any type of civil airliner without restrictions, including the massive Boeing 777 and Boeing 747.
• Unique Logistics: Its location on the opposite bank of the Anadyr Estuary from the city makes the transfer an unforgettable experience. Depending on the season, passengers reach the city by boat, hovercraft, helicopter, or via an ice road laid directly across the frozen bay.
• Safety for Trans-Pacific Flights: Thanks to its equipment and location, Ugolny serves as an alternate aerodrome for international flights travelling from Asia to North America. Liners from global airlines periodically make emergency landings here.
• Local Flair: Upon leaving the airport, guests are welcomed by the famous wooden statue "The Hospitable Chukchi" (or "Welcome to Chukotka"), which has become a popular photo spot for all arriving tourists.

• Official Website: airport-anadyr.ru
• Information Desk Phone: +7 (42732) 2-77-77
• Address: Russia, Chukotka Autonomous Okrug, Anadyrsky District, Ugolnye Kopi settlement, Portovaya Street, 8
• Email: airport@chukotnet.ru
• Social Media: It is recommended to track current information and news on the airport's official website.
• Lost and Found: For information regarding lost or damaged luggage, please contact the transportation service at +7 (42732) 2-74-36.
• Passenger Support: For general inquiries and consultations, you may contact the airport information desk.

Getting to Ugolny Airport (DYR) from the city of Anadyr is a small adventure in itself, as the airport is located on the other side of the Anadyr Estuary. The method of crossing depends directly on the time of year, so it is necessary to plan your route taking the season into account.

Summer (Navigation period, approximately June to October)

In the warm season, when the estuary is free of ice, the crossing is carried out by water. First, you need to reach Pier 10 in Anadyr by city bus or taxi. From there, boats and small ferries run regularly to the settlement of Ugolnye Kopi, where the airport is located. Upon arrival on the other bank, a local bus will take you to the terminal building. The entire journey takes on average 1.5–2 hours. This option is the most common and accessible during the summer season.

Winter (Ice crossing, approximately January to April)

With the onset of severe frost, an official ice road is organised on the estuary. During this period, transport connections become the simplest and fastest. From Anadyr, you can drive directly to the airport by shuttle bus or regular taxi. The trip along the ice road takes only 30–40 minutes. The fare for the shuttle is fixed, while a taxi will cost significantly more.

Off-season (October-December and May-June)

This is the most difficult and unpredictable period for travel. The ice is not yet strong enough for cars but already hinders the movement of vessels. At this time, the only way to cross the estuary often becomes a helicopter. Helicopter service depends on weather conditions, has a strict schedule, and limited seating. This is the most expensive and not always reliable option, requiring advance planning and ticket purchase.

Taxi, Car Rental, and Parking

You can call a taxi at any time of the year, but its route and cost will depend on the season: in winter, they will take you directly to the terminal, while in summer, only to the pier. Car rental services in Anadyr are practically undeveloped for tourists. There is parking at the airport, but reaching it by private or rented car in summer is only possible via a cargo ferry (barge), which is expensive and time-consuming. In winter, driving via the ice crossing presents no difficulties.

Top Tip: Before travelling to the airport, always check the current status of the estuary crossing and weather conditions. Allocate a significant buffer of time for the journey, especially during the off-season, to avoid missing your flight.

Ugolny Airport (Anadyr) is a compact and functional aviation hub, the structure of which is intuitively understandable even for those visiting for the first time. The terminal complex consists of one passenger terminal that serves all flights—both domestic and international. This significantly simplifies navigation, as all key zones are located under one roof.

The layout of the terminal is extremely simple. Practically all passenger services take place on a single floor. Upon entering the building, you immediately find yourself in the general hall, where the check-in counters and waiting area are located. Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated: after check-in, passengers proceed to the security screening area and then to the sterile area with boarding gates. The arrival hall is in another part of the building, where passengers are transported by bus from the aircraft. Thanks to the small size and clear signage, orienting yourself in the terminal is very easy.

Since there is only one terminal at the airport, there is no need for transfers between buildings. All services—from check-in to baggage claim—are within walking distance of each other. This makes the stay at the airport as convenient as possible and eliminates unnecessary hassle.

For check-in and pre-flight screening, it is recommended to arrive at the airport well in advance, at least 2–2.5 hours before departure. Despite the compactness of the terminal, on days of peak load or during difficult weather conditions characteristic of the region, procedures may take more time. A time buffer will allow you to calmly check in your luggage, pass security control, and await your flight without rushing.

The history of Ugolny Airport (DYR) is inextricably linked with the strategic importance of Chukotka in the 20th century. Its construction began in the 1950s, and initially, it was created not for civil needs, but as a first-class military airfield for strategic aviation. During the Cold War, Ugolny served as a key "staging airfield" for long-range bombers capable of reaching North America, making it one of the most critical military facilities in the country's extreme northeast.

Over time and with changing geopolitical circumstances, the military role of the airport became less pronounced, while its importance for civil aviation increased sharply. It became the main air gateway for the city of Anadyr and all of Chukotka, connecting this vast and hard-to-reach region with the rest of Russia. The airport received joint-basing status, where civil liners and military aviation coexist to this day. This dual function is a legacy of its unique history.

A key stage in the modern history of the airport began in the 2000s when a large-scale reconstruction was carried out. The runway was modernised, capable of receiving heavy long-haul aircraft, including the Boeing 747 and Boeing 777. A new modern terminal complex was built, significantly increasing comfort for passengers. These updates allowed the airport to strengthen its status on the world aviation map.

One of the most interesting facts of the airport's modern history is its status as an international diversion airfield for trans-pacific flights (ETOPS). Thanks to the long runway and modern equipment, Ugolny serves as an important safety point for twin-engine aircraft flying from Asia to North America and back. In the event of an emergency, such as a technical malfunction or a passenger health issue, liners can make a forced landing here. This status has been confirmed in practice multiple times, highlighting the airport's high level of readiness and its significance for global civil aviation.

Ugolny Airport (DYR) provides passengers with all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight in the conditions of the Far North. Despite its size, the terminal is well-equipped and offers several options for rest and addressing practical matters.

There is a café operating within the terminal where you can have a full meal or a light snack, as well as coffee or tea. Additionally, there are several small shops and souvenir stalls offering products from local artisans, delicacies, press, and travel essentials.

A general waiting hall is available for all passengers. If you prefer more privacy, you can use the VIP lounge services, which offer an enhanced level of comfort, beverages, and snacks. The airport building has free Wi-Fi, and power outlets and charging stations for electronic devices are installed in the waiting areas.

Travellers have access to an ATM for cash withdrawals. Currency exchange operations are not conducted at the airport. A medical point operates around the clock for emergency assistance. Families with children can use the Mother and Child room free of charge, which is equipped with everything needed for infant care: changing tables, cribs, and a play area.

The airport is fully equipped to serve passengers with reduced mobility. Staff will provide necessary assistance with movement through the terminal and boarding the flight (it is recommended to notify the airline in advance if assistance is needed). Directly opposite the terminal building is a hotel, which is very convenient for early departures or flight delays. There are no dedicated conference halls in the airport, but the VIP lounge can be used for business meetings.

When planning a flight through Anadyr's "Ugolny" Airport (DYR), it is important to consider that this is a small regional hub, and dining choices here are limited. Nevertheless, passengers can refresh themselves before departure or after arrival.

The main place for dining at the airport is the café, located in the general hall of the single passenger terminal (in the landside area before security control). This makes it accessible for both departing passengers and those meeting them. Typically, after passing through security (airside), opportunities to eat are non-existent or minimal (e.g., a vending machine).

What you can find on the menu:

• For a full meal, they usually offer simple but hearty home-style dishes: soups, hot main courses (for example, meat patties with a side dish, goulash), and salads.
• For a quick snack, fresh pastries (pies, buns), sandwiches, and hot beverages—tea and coffee—are excellent options.
• Local Flair: Sometimes you can find dishes with local ingredients on the menu. Pay attention to pastries with northern berries (lingonberry, cloudberry) or, if you are lucky, dishes made from venison or local fish (chum salmon, char). This is an excellent opportunity to experience the cuisine of Chukotka. (Note: Fish and venison options are generally suitable for those preferring Halal-friendly ingredients, though certification should be verified locally).

Regarding specialised diets (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free), finding such options at Ugolny Airport will be extremely difficult. Passengers with strict dietary restrictions are advised to bring food with them. The café's operating hours are usually tied to the flight schedule: it opens a few hours before the first departure and closes after the last aircraft leaves. Given the remoteness of the region, be prepared that prices in the café may be higher than the average in Russia.

To ensure your journey through Ugolny Airport goes smoothly, it is worth considering several features of this unique air hub. The airport serves the city of Anadyr and is the key gateway to Chukotka, so proper preparation will help avoid unnecessary hassle in the severe climate of this region of Russia. Follow these tips to make your trip as comfortable as possible.

Arrival at the Airport and Check-in. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2-3 hours before a domestic flight departure. Given the remoteness and severe weather conditions, delays are possible not only for flights but also for transport to the airport itself. Remember that Ugolny Airport is located on the opposite bank of the estuary from the city, and transport links depend on the season (ice crossing in winter, ferry in summer). If possible, use online check-in to save time. This will allow you to proceed immediately to baggage drop-off if you have luggage.

Tips for Saving Time and Money. To optimise expenses, find out the cost and current schedule of the estuary crossing in advance—this will help plan your budget and avoid long waits. Also, note that prices for food and beverages at the airport can be high. To save money, bring permitted snacks with you, such as sandwiches, fruit, or nuts. Using online check-in is the best way to save precious time on the day of departure.

Security Control and Hand Luggage. Security procedures at the airport are standard, but due to the small size of the terminal, queues may arise during peak moments. Prepare your documents and boarding pass in advance. It is prohibited to carry sharp objects and liquids in containers larger than 100 ml in hand luggage (total volume must not exceed 1 litre per passenger). All liquids must be packed in a transparent bag. Electronics, such as laptops and power banks, must be removed from bags for separate scanning.

Seat Selection and Transfers. If it is possible to choose a seat during check-in, choose a window seat. Flights over Chukotka offer unforgettable views of the boundless tundra and the rugged nature of the North. If you have a connecting flight, allow sufficient time for it, especially if the transfer takes place in another airport. Weather conditions in the region are unpredictable, and delays are a frequent occurrence.

Flight Delays and Customs Control. Flight delays due to weather (blizzards, strong winds, fog) are common for Anadyr. In case of a delay, contact your airline representative. According to regulations, if the wait exceeds 2 hours, you should be provided with beverages, and if it exceeds 4 hours—a hot meal. Customs control is undergone by passengers on international flights. If you are arriving from abroad, fill out a declaration in advance if you are carrying goods subject to declaration.