Kadala

Kadala Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a true aerial gateway to sunny Transbaikalia (Zabaykalsky Krai), where your introduction to the region's amazing nature and local colour begins. Located amongst picturesque hills, this airport welcomes travellers with a cosiness and calm rhythm that differs significantly from the bustle of giant capital hubs. It is from here that routes to Buddhist datsans, boundless steppes, and taiga forests begin, making your arrival part of a great adventure.

Despite its compact size, Chita (Kadala) Airport offers passengers a decent level of service. The terminal complex is intuitive: it is difficult to get lost here, and all necessary zones are within walking distance. For those who value enhanced comfort, there is a renovated business lounge with soft seating areas, Wi-Fi, and snacks. The territory also features a cafe where you can have a bite before your flight, and souvenir shops offering unique goods from Transbaikalia — from pine nuts to items made of charoite.

You can reach the city by bus or minibus (No. 12, No. 14), with the stop located right at the terminal exit. For car owners, a parking complex with zones for both short-term and long-term parking is provided.

• Official website: aerochita.ru
• Help desk phone: +7 (3022) 400-109
• Airport address: 15 Zvezdnaya St., Chita, Zabaykalsky Krai, Russia
• Email: info@aerochita.ru
• Social media: Official VKontakte page – vk.com/aerochita
• Lost luggage information: In case of loss or damage to luggage, please contact the tracing service by phone: +7 (3022) 400-144.
• Passenger support contacts: For all general questions and assistance at the airport, you may contact the help desk.

The Chita (Kadala) International Airport named after Nikolay Muravyov-Amursky (UIAA) is located approximately 18 kilometres west of the city centre. You can reach it in several ways, each having its own advantages depending on your budget, time, and amount of luggage.

Public Transport is the most budget-friendly way to get to the airport. Minibuses (marshrutkas) No. 12 and No. 14 run regularly to the terminal. They depart from different districts of the city and travel to the final stop, "Airport". The travel time from the centre is approximately 40-50 minutes, but this may increase during peak hours. This is a good option for those travelling light.

Taxi or Transfer is the most comfortable and fastest option. A taxi ride from the central part of Chita to the airport will take about 20-30 minutes, excluding traffic jams. You can order a car via popular mobile apps or use the services of official taxi companies. This is particularly convenient if you have a lot of luggage, are travelling with family, or are flying early in the morning or late at night.

Personal Car and Parking. If you are driving your own car, parking zones are provided at Kadala Airport. You can use short-term parking for quick pick-up or drop-off of passengers, or leave your vehicle for a longer period at the guarded car park. Parking rates vary, so it is recommended to check the current costs on the airport's official website.

Car Rental. For those who value complete freedom of movement, car rental companies operate in Chita. You can rent a car in the city and return it at the company's representative office at the airport before departure. This method is ideal for tourists planning to actively explore the Zabaykalsky Krai region, rather than just visiting the capital.

Kadala Airport (HTA) in Chita is a compact and functional aviation hub with one passenger terminal that serves both domestic and international flights. Such a structure makes navigation through the airport intuitive and fast, which is especially convenient for travellers.

The terminal building is divided into several main zones. The ground floor traditionally houses the Arrivals area, where passengers collect their luggage, as well as check-in counters for flights. The main exits to city transport and taxis are also located here. The Departures area is situated on the first floor. After checking in on the ground floor, passengers go upstairs to pass through pre-flight security and enter the waiting lounge.

The airport layout is simple: all key points — from the entrance to the boarding gate — are within a single building, so there are no transfers between terminals. For passenger convenience, information boards and signs in Russian and English are installed everywhere to help you orient yourself. The waiting lounges for domestic and international flights are separated; access to the international sector opens after passing through border control.

The time required to go through all procedures at Kadala Airport is usually short due to its compactness. Check-in and baggage drop-off typically take about 15–30 minutes, and pre-flight security takes another 10–15 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance: 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one, to avoid rushing and to complete all formalities calmly.

The history of Kadala Airport (HTA) is a living chronicle of aviation development in Transbaikalia. The airport, located in the city of Chita, has come a long way from a modest airfield to an important transport hub in the eastern part of Russia. Its history began in the 1930s, when a military airfield was built. By 1938, it began serving civil flights as well, becoming a joint-base airport.

A key stage in its development was the mid-20th century. In the post-war years, with the growth of air traffic volumes, there was an acute need for modernisation. In the 1950s, the first paved runway was constructed, allowing the airport to receive heavier and more modern aircraft, such as the Il-12 and Il-14. This event gave a powerful impetus to the development of passenger and cargo connections with other regions of the country.

The next significant step was taken in the 1960s, when the construction of a new terminal complex was completed. Designed to handle increasing passenger flow, the terminal became the hallmark of Chita's air gateway. In subsequent decades, the airport continued to develop, accepting new types of aircraft and expanding its flight geography.

The airport's recent history has been marked by large-scale reconstructions. In 1994, Kadala received international status, opening new opportunities for travellers and business. In the 2000s and 2010s, serious modernisation of the runway and terminal was carried out, ensuring compliance with modern safety and comfort standards. Today, Kadala Airport continues to play a strategic role, connecting the Zabaykalsky Krai with Moscow, Siberia, the Far East, and Asian countries.

Kadala Airport (HTA) in Chita offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. In the terminal building, you will find several cafes where you can have a snack or coffee, as well as shops with souvenirs, press, and travel goods. Comfortable waiting areas are equipped for all passengers.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay connected or work. Special stands and sockets are provided for charging electronic devices. ATMs of several major banks are installed in the airport; however, currency exchange services may be limited, so it is recommended to take care of this in advance.

For travellers who value enhanced comfort, a Business Lounge operates with a quieter atmosphere and additional services. Families with small children can use the Mother and Child Room, equipped with everything necessary for baby care. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with assistance in moving around the airport and boarding — please notify the airline in advance for this service. A medical point operates around the clock at the airport in case of need.

If you need to stay overnight near the airport, a hotel is located literally a few minutes' walk from the terminal. For business meetings or events, the airport has a conference hall that can be rented by contacting the administration.

At Chita "Kadala" Airport (HTA), passengers can find several options for a snack or a full meal. Although the selection here is not as wide as in major international hubs, you will not go hungry. The main dining points are located in the general hall of the terminal, accessible to both departing passengers and those seeing them off.

A cafe usually operates on the ground floor of the terminal, where you can order Russian and European dishes: soups, hot main courses, salads, and pastries. This is a good option for those who have time for a leisurely lunch or dinner. For a quick snack, sandwiches, pies, or desserts with coffee or tea are suitable. In the sterile area (after passing security), the choice is generally more limited and may be reduced to a small buffet or coffee machine, so it is better to have a substantial meal before check-in and security control.

Particular attention should be paid to local cuisine. If you see Buryat pozy (buuzy) on the menu of one of the cafes — be sure to try them. This is a famous dish made of minced meat wrapped in dough and steamed, which will allow you to get acquainted with the gastronomic traditions of Transbaikalia. Prices in airport establishments are moderate, comparable to average city cafes, but may be slightly higher. Most dining points operate in accordance with the flight schedule, opening a few hours before the first departure and closing after the last one leaves.

Regarding special dietary requests, finding ready-made vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes may be difficult. However, in most cafes, you can order simple vegetarian options, such as vegetable salads or side dishes. We recommend clarifying the ingredients with the staff before ordering.

When planning a trip through Kadala Airport in the city of Chita, use our tips to ensure your journey goes smoothly and without unnecessary hassle. This airport, serving flights across Russia and abroad, has its own specific features; knowing them will save you time and nerves.

Arrival Time and Check-in. We recommend arriving at the airport at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one. This will give you a sufficient buffer of time to pass through check-in and security calmly. To save time, check in for your flight online — this will allow you to avoid queues at check-in counters, especially if you are travelling without checked luggage.

Security Control and Hand Luggage. Security procedures at Kadala Airport are standard. Prepare your passport and boarding pass in advance, and remove laptops, tablets, and liquids from your hand luggage. We remind you that you can take liquids into the cabin in containers of no more than 100 ml each, packed in a transparent bag. Ensure there are no prohibited items, such as knives or scissors, in your hand luggage.

Seat Selection and Transfers. When choosing a seat on the plane, note that window seats will allow you to enjoy views of Transbaikalia during takeoff and landing. If comfort and the ability to stand up freely are important to you, choose an aisle seat. For passengers with transfers: always check with the airline whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage at the transit airport — rules may vary.

Customs Control. If you are flying on an international flight, be prepared to pass through customs control. Study the customs regulations of the destination country and the rules for carrying goods and currency in advance to avoid delays. Declare all items subject to declaration.

In Case of Flight Delay. If your flight is delayed, the first thing to do is find a representative of your airline at the airport. Depending on the duration of the delay, you are legally entitled to drinks, hot meals, and in case of a long wait, hotel accommodation. Do not hesitate to ask for information and request that your rights be respected.

Tips for Saving Money. To save a little, bring an empty water bottle with you, which can be filled at a drinking fountain after passing security control. Prices for food and drinks in airports are often inflated, so a light snack permitted for carriage (for example, nuts or biscuits) will also be useful.