Bratsk Airport

Bratsk Air Harbor possesses a number of unique characteristics that make it a strategically important facility for all of Eastern Siberia. The main pride of the airport is its runway. Thanks to its impressive length and high load-bearing capacity, it can accommodate practically all types of aircraft, including heavy An-124 "Ruslan" transports and Boeing 747s, which is a rarity for regional airfields. This allows Bratsk to serve as a reliable alternate aerodrome for transcontinental flights flying over Siberia.

For ordinary travelers, the key advantage remains its compactness and convenience. The terminal is designed so that all pre-flight procedures take place as quickly as possible: there are no long queues or complicated transitions typical of capital hubs. The airport is famous for its "all-weather" capability—thanks to its favorable location and the professionalism of meteorological services, flight delays due to fog happen here less often than at neighboring airports, which is especially valuable in the conditions of the unpredictable Siberian winter.

• Official Website: For the most up-to-date information on flights, services, and rules, visit the airport's official website at aerobratsk.ru.
• Information Desk Phone: For general questions regarding the schedule and airport operations, you can call: +7 (3953) 32-23-09.
• Airport Address: Russia, Irkutsk Region, Bratsk, Airport Territory.
• Email: For official inquiries and appeals, use the e-mail: office@aerobratsk.ru.
• Social Media: Follow news and updates in the official airport group on VKontakte.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, contact the transportation service at: +7 (3953) 32-23-74.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For consultations and assistance on various issues, passengers can contact the airport information desk.

Bratsk Airport (BTK) is located approximately 24 kilometers from the central part of the city of Bratsk, making it easily accessible for travelers. You can reach the air harbor in several ways, the choice of which depends on your budget, time, and comfort preferences. When planning your trip, keep in mind that you are in Russia, where the transport system has its own specific features.

Public Transport is the most economical option. A bus runs between the city and the airport, most often route No. 125e (express), which departs from the bus station. The bus trip will take approximately 40-50 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The fare is quite democratic, usually within the range of 100-150 rubles. This is an excellent choice for budget tourists and those traveling light. Be sure to check the current schedule in advance, as it may change.

Taxi or Transfer is the most convenient and fastest way to get to the airport. The trip from the city center will take about 25-30 minutes. You can order a car through popular mobile apps or use the services of local taxi companies. The cost of the trip usually varies from 600 to 1000 rubles depending on the carrier and the time of day. This option is ideal if you have a lot of luggage, are traveling with children, or simply value comfort and do not want to depend on the public transport schedule.

If you prefer complete freedom of movement, you can use the car rental service. Several rental companies operate in Bratsk. With a rented car, you can not only drive to the airport at a time convenient for you but also explore the surroundings of the city. Most companies offer the option to return the car directly at the airport before departure.

For those arriving at the airport by private car, parking is provided on the territory. There are both short-term and long-term parking lots where you can leave your car for the duration of your trip. This is a convenient option for residents of Bratsk and nearby settlements who prefer to drive to the airport themselves.

The airport of Bratsk (BTK) is a small regional air terminal, the structure of which is extremely simple and convenient for passengers. You won't have to worry about complex transitions and long corridors, making pre-flight procedures quick and comfortable.

The airport operates one passenger terminal, which serves all flights—both arrivals and departures. Thanks to the compact size of the building, all infrastructure is within walking distance. The terminal layout is intuitive: the ground floor houses the main zones, including check-in counters, the arrival area with a baggage claim belt, and general waiting halls. There are no transfers between terminals since all operations are concentrated in one building.

The departure zone is located after passing security control. Here, passengers wait for boarding. The arrival zone is located separately so that the flows of arriving and departing passengers do not cross. Navigation is carried out by standard signs for "Departure", "Arrival", "Check-in", and "Baggage Claim", making it practically impossible to get lost in the building.

Check-in and security screening at Bratsk Airport usually take no more than 30-40 minutes thanks to the low passenger traffic. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport as standard—1.5 to 2 hours before departure—to complete all formalities without rushing. Just follow the signs, and you will easily find the zone you need.

The history of Bratsk Airport is inextricably linked with the grandiose construction of the Bratsk Hydroelectric Power Station and the development of the city as one of the largest industrial centers in Siberia. The first air transport operations began back in 1956, when a hydro-aerodrome was organized on the Bratsk Reservoir for the needs of the builders. However, for year-round and reliable communication with the rest of Russia, a modern land-based air harbor was required.

A key stage in the development of the airport was the completion of construction and commissioning in 1967 of a new runway with artificial pavement. This event opened a new era in the city's aviation communication: the airport was able to receive modern turbojet liners of that time, such as the Tu-104, which significantly reduced travel time to Moscow and other major cities of the country.

As the city grew and passenger traffic increased, the airport continued to develop. In 1984, a new terminal complex was opened, which serves passengers to this day. This made it possible to significantly increase the level of comfort and the capacity of the air harbor. The runway has been reconstructed several times to maintain high safety standards.

A significant achievement in the modern history of the airport was the assignment of international status in 1995. This opened up opportunities for direct flights to countries near and far abroad, strengthening the region's economic and tourism ties. An interesting fact: the runway of Bratsk Airport is one of the longest in Siberia, allowing it to accept practically all types of aircraft, including heavy An-124 "Ruslan" transport planes.

Bratsk Airport (BTK) provides passengers with all necessary services for a comfortable wait before departure. A cafe operates in the terminal building where you can have a snack before your flight, as well as several shops and kiosks. Here you will find souvenirs, travel goods, and fresh press. For those who value extra comfort, a VIP lounge is available, offering a quieter atmosphere.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay connected or work while waiting for boarding. Special stands are equipped for charging electronic devices. Passengers with children can use the services of the Mother and Child Room, equipped with everything necessary for caring for little ones.

For the convenience of travelers, an ATM is installed in the airport. In case of need, you can contact the 24-hour medical point, where first aid will be provided. Conditions for unimpeded movement have been created for passengers with reduced mobility, and airport staff are always ready to provide necessary accompaniment and assistance.

If you need to stay overnight, the "AeroBratsk" Hotel is located right on the station square, which is especially convenient for early departures or late arrivals. There are no specialized conference halls in the airport building itself, but basic business services may be available in the VIP lounge or at the nearby hotel.

Bratsk Airport (BTK) is a regional aviation hub, so the choice of dining establishments here is quite modest but sufficient to have a snack before departure or after arrival. The main food points are concentrated in the building of the single passenger terminal, usually in the public zone (landside), before passing security control.

A cafe or buffet operates at the airport, where passengers can have a full lunch or a quick snack. For those in a hurry, the menu includes sandwiches, fresh pastries (buns, pies), and hot drinks such as tea and coffee. If you have more time, you can order more substantial dishes—soups, salads, and hot meals, for example, cutlets with a side dish or dumplings, which may represent local Siberian cuisine. After passing security (airside), the choice is usually limited to vending machines with drinks and snacks.

Prices in the Bratsk Airport cafe can be characterized as moderate, corresponding to the status of a regional transport hub. Regarding special dietary needs, finding specific vegetarian, vegan, or Halal menus here will be difficult. Travelers with strict dietary requirements should take care of food in advance or choose the simplest dishes from the available assortment, for example, fresh vegetable salads or porridge.

The opening hours of catering establishments are usually tied to the flight schedule to serve passengers of both morning and evening departures. We recommend checking the availability of hot meals on the spot, but you can always count on tea, coffee, and light snacks during the airport's operating hours.

To ensure your journey through Bratsk Airport goes as smoothly as possible, use these helpful tips. A thoughtful approach will help save time, nerves, and even money.

Arrival Time at the Airport. For domestic flights within Russia, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2–2.5 hours before departure. This time buffer is usually enough to check in, drop off luggage, and pass security screening without rushing, even if there is a queue at the counters.

Check-in and Security. The fastest way to check in for a flight is to do it online on your airline's website. This way, you can choose a seat in advance and, upon arrival at the airport, either go straight to security (if flying without luggage) or drop off your suitcase at the Drop-off counter. The screening procedure is standard; be prepared to remove laptops, tablets, and liquids from your carry-on luggage for separate scanning.

Seat Selection on the Plane. If you want to enjoy the views, choose a window seat. If you value freedom of movement and plan to get up during the flight, an aisle seat is your choice. Seats in the front of the cabin usually allow you to leave the plane faster after landing, while there are often more empty seats in the tail section.

Hand Luggage Rules. Carefully study your airline's requirements for the weight and dimensions of hand luggage. General rules prohibit carrying liquids in containers larger than 100 ml, as well as any sharp or piercing-cutting objects. It is important to remember that power banks and spare lithium batteries are allowed to be carried only in hand luggage.

Passengers with Transfers. Bratsk Airport is rarely used as a major transit hub. However, if you have a complex route with a transfer in another city, check with the airline in advance whether your luggage will be transferred automatically or if you will have to collect and register it again.

Customs Control. For flights within the country, there is no customs control. Passengers undergo only pre-flight security screening. Customs and border procedures are provided only for rare international flights. In this case, follow the standard rules for declaring valuables and currency.

Saving Time and Money. Order a taxi to and from the airport via online apps—this is often more profitable than using the services of private drivers on the spot. Take an empty water bottle with you and fill it at a cooler after the security zone to avoid spending money on overpriced drinks.

If the Flight is Delayed. In case of a flight delay or cancellation, contact your airline representative at the airport. According to the rules, during a long wait, you should be provided with drinks, hot meals, and if necessary, accommodation in a hotel. Regularly check information on the online display and remain calm.