Irkutsk Airport

Irkutsk International Airport (IKT) is not merely a transport hub, but the true aerial gateway to Eastern Siberia and the main starting point for travellers seeking to witness the legendary Lake Baikal. Located within the city limits, it uniquely combines convenience with a rich history, being one of the oldest aviation enterprises in Russia. Every year, the airport serves millions of passengers, connecting the region with dozens of cities across the country and beyond.

One of the airport's main features is its convenient location — it is situated directly within the city limits, allowing you to reach the centre in just 15-20 minutes by car or public transport. The airport complex consists of two main terminals: for domestic and international flights, as well as an additional pavilion for arriving domestic passengers. The infrastructure includes everything necessary for a comfortable wait before departure: cafes, shops, a pharmacy, and a mother and child room. The airport serves as a base for IrAero and Angara airlines, and is a key regional hub for S7 Airlines, offering a wide route network across Russia and to Asian countries.

Below you will find useful contact details for representatives of Irkutsk Airport (IKT). We recommend checking the information on the official website before your trip.

• Official website: iktport.ru
• Unified inquiry service phone: +7 (3952) 266-277
• Address: Russia, Irkutsk, Shiryamova St., 13, 664009
• Email (General Office): office@iktport.ru
• Social Media: The airport maintains official pages on Telegram and VKontakte, where the latest news and operational information are published.
• Lost and Found: If your luggage has not arrived or was damaged, please contact: +7 (3952) 266-566 (domestic airlines) or +7 (3952) 266-343 (international airlines).
• Passenger Support: For general questions and consultations, you may contact the airport's unified inquiry service.

Irkutsk Airport is conveniently located within the city, making the journey there quick and accessible. There are several ways to get to the terminals from the centre of Irkutsk, and you can easily choose the one that suits your budget and comfort level.

Public Transport is the most economical option. Numerous city buses (No. 20, 42, 43, 80, 90) and trolleybuses (No. 4, 6) run to the airport. The trip from the city centre will take approximately 20-40 minutes depending on the route and traffic conditions. The fare is minimal, but please note that transport can be crowded during peak hours, which may not be convenient if you have large luggage. This is an excellent choice for those travelling light who wish to experience the rhythm of the city.

Taxi or Transfer offers a balance between speed, comfort, and price. A taxi ride from the central part of Irkutsk to the airport takes just 15-20 minutes without traffic. It is recommended to use official carriers or ride-hailing apps popular in Russia. This allows you to know the cost in advance and avoid overpaying. Booking a private transfer is particularly convenient if you are travelling with family or a large group with bulky luggage.

For those who prefer complete freedom of movement, several car rental companies operate in Irkutsk. You can rent a car in the city and return it directly at the airport before departure. This is especially convenient if you plan not only to visit the city but also to travel around its picturesque surroundings. The airport territory features parking where you can leave a private vehicle for both short and long periods. Rates depend on the duration of parking, allowing you to choose the best option for your trip.

Irkutsk Airport (IKT) has a clear structure that is simple to navigate, comprising two main passenger terminals. The main feature travellers should be aware of is that the terminals are located in separate buildings not far from each other. One is designated for domestic flights within Russia (Domestic Terminal), and the second for international flights (International Terminal).

The Domestic Terminal is the primary and busiest facility. The vast majority of passengers travelling to other cities in the country are served here. The ground floor houses check-in counters and the arrival area, while the first floor contains the departure zone with pre-flight security checks and waiting lounges. Given the age and compactness of the building, it can be quite crowded during peak hours, so it is worth allowing extra time for formalities.

The International Terminal is a more modern and less crowded building. Its operation depends directly on the schedule of flights abroad. In addition to standard check-in and security zones, border and customs control points are located here. The atmosphere in the international terminal is generally calmer.

Moving between terminals is not difficult. They are located approximately 100 metres apart, and the transfer takes only 2–3 minutes on foot outdoors. There is no special covered walkway between them, which is important to consider during poor weather. Navigation signs will help you easily find the correct building.

To avoid rushing, we recommend arriving at the airport in advance: at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 2.5–3 hours before an international one. This time will be sufficient to calmly complete all procedures. Be sure to check your ticket to see exactly which terminal — Domestic or International — you need, so you can head straight to the correct building.

The history of Irkutsk Airport is one of the oldest aviation chronicles in Russia. Its official opening date is considered to be 24 June 1925. On this day, the first regular flight in the history of Eastern Siberia was performed on the Irkutsk — Ulan-Ude — Ulan Bator route. The first flights were carried out on hydroplanes that took off directly from the waters of the Angara River, a fact that seems astonishing today.

The transition to land-based operations began in 1928, when the first runway was built. This year was marked by an important event for the region: the first flight to Bodaybo was made, which was of immense significance for supplying the gold mines. Gradually, the airport developed, hangars and service buildings were constructed, and aviation became a key mode of transport for the vast territory.

A significant stage in development came in 1954, when Irkutsk Airport was granted international status. This opened direct air routes to Mongolia, China, and other Asian countries. Just two years later, in 1956, the first Tu-104 jet passenger aircraft in the USSR landed here, marking a true technological breakthrough and a symbol of a new era in civil aviation.

In subsequent decades, the airport underwent multiple modernisations. In 1976, the terminal building that serves domestic flights today was put into operation. In the 1990s, a large-scale reconstruction of the runway was carried out to accommodate modern heavy airliners. The last major update was the opening of a new international terminal in 2009, significantly increasing passenger comfort and airport capacity. Today, Irkutsk Airport remains one of the most important transport hubs in Siberia, continuing its rich history.

Irkutsk Airport (IKT) offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. The terminals feature various cafes and dining outlets where you can have a quick snack or a full meal. Additionally, shops are available to travellers, including those selling souvenirs, where you can purchase gifts and Baikal-themed items.

For a comfortable wait before departure, waiting lounges are provided, as well as a VIP Lounge offering an enhanced level of service, including beverages, snacks, and a quieter atmosphere. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and charging stations and power outlets for mobile devices and laptops are installed in the waiting halls, allowing you to stay connected before your flight.

Passengers can utilise financial services — ATMs and currency exchange points are located in the terminal building. To ensure safety and health, a medical centre operates on the premises, ready to provide first aid if necessary.

For families with small children, a Mother and Child Room is equipped where you can feed and change your baby in a quiet environment. Special assistance is provided to passengers with reduced mobility, including accompaniment through the airport territory and assistance with boarding. It is recommended to book this service in advance through the airline.

Several hotels of various price categories are located in the immediate vicinity of the airport, where you can rest while waiting for a flight or during a long layover. Although there are no specialised conference halls within the airport itself, necessary conditions for work, such as internet access and quiet zones, can be found in the business lounge.

At Irkutsk Airport (IKT), passengers can find several options for a snack or a full meal while waiting for their flight. The main dining establishments are concentrated in the Domestic Terminal, which serves the majority of flights. In the International Terminal, the selection is generally more modest.

In the public hall and the sterile area of the domestic terminal, cafes and coffee shops operate where you can order standard dishes: sandwiches, pastries, salads, hot drinks, and desserts. This is a good option for those with limited time. If you wish to experience local cuisine, pay attention to the menu in the cafes — sometimes you can find famous Siberian dishes there, for example, buuzy (dumplings) or dishes made from Baikal omul fish. This is an excellent opportunity to try regional specialities without leaving the airport.

For a full lunch or dinner, the cafes located in the public zone before security control are best suited. Here, the menu is generally more diverse, and the setting is more comfortable. After passport control and security (airside), choices are usually limited to small coffee shops and beverage counters, ideal for a quick snack before departure. Vending machines with drinks and snacks are also installed in both terminals.

Food and drink prices at Irkutsk Airport, as in most airports, are higher than the city average. Regarding opening hours, many establishments in the main terminal operate around the clock or adjust their schedule to flight times. Passengers with specific dietary requirements (Halal, vegetarian, vegan) are advised to study the menu carefully or check ingredients with staff, as specialised cafes may not be available.

To ensure your journey through Irkutsk Airport goes as smoothly and comfortably as possible, it is worth familiarising yourself with a few useful tips in advance. Proper preparation will help save time, reduce stress, and even save money, making the start or end of your trip to Russia pleasant.

Arrival Time. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2-2.5 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one. This will give you enough time to calmly complete all formalities: check-in, baggage drop, and security screening, especially during peak seasons.

Check-in and Security Control. To avoid queues, use online check-in for your flight, which usually opens 24 hours before departure. At the airport, you will only need to drop off your luggage at a dedicated counter. When passing through security, be prepared to remove laptops, tablets, and other large gadgets, as well as liquids in a separate tray, from your hand luggage.

Seat Selection. If you have the option to choose a seat during check-in, consider your preferences. A window seat offers a chance to enjoy views, especially if your route flies over Lake Baikal. An aisle seat is more convenient if you plan to get up during the flight.

Hand Luggage. Remember the restrictions: liquids may be carried in containers of no more than 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag with a total volume of up to 1 litre. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances cannot be taken in hand luggage. Always keep documents, money, medication, and valuable electronics with you.

Transfers. If you have a connecting flight, verify with the airline in advance whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage in Irkutsk. In the transit zone, follow the signs for transfer passengers to avoid wasting time exiting to the public area and going through security again.

Customs Control. This point is relevant for international flight passengers. If you have no goods to declare, proceed through the Green Channel. If you are carrying amounts exceeding the established limit, cultural valuables, or goods in commercial quantities, you will need to complete a declaration and pass through the Red Channel.

Saving Time and Money. Order a taxi via a mobile app or use public transport to avoid overpaying. Bring an empty water bottle to fill at a drinking fountain after passing security control. A small snack brought from home will also help save money.

In Case of Flight Delay. First of all, stay calm and monitor information on the departure boards. Contact a representative of your airline. Depending on the length of the delay, you are entitled by law to drinks, hot meals, and for long waits — hotel accommodation. Keep all receipts for unforeseen expenses so that you can request compensation later.