Yasny

Yasny Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a genuine breakthrough in the accessibility of the Kuril Islands, built literally from scratch amidst the wild nature. This modern air harbour, which opened in 2014, has become a reliable window to the world for residents and guests of the island, replacing the old "Burevestnik" airfield which was heavily dependent on the whims of the weather. Arriving here, you immediately feel the breath of the ocean and the majesty of the volcanoes, as the terminal is located in an amazingly picturesque place where civilisation harmoniously coexists with the primordial elements.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

The main pride of Yasny Airport is its all-weather capability. Unlike its predecessor, which often closed due to dense Kuril fogs, the new air harbour is located in an area with a more favourable microclimate. This significantly reduces the number of flight delays and makes planning a trip to Iturup more predictable.

The airport terminal, though small, is equipped with everything necessary for comfort: it is bright, warm, and intuitive. The compactness of the building plays into the hands of tourists: all procedures, from check-in to baggage claim, are completed very quickly, without unnecessary fuss or long queues, which is especially valuable after a long flight.

Another advantage is the technical equipment. The airport's runway is capable of accepting most types of medium-haul aircraft, ensuring stable connections with Sakhalin. And thanks to the modern design and panoramic windows, waiting for departure turns into an opportunity to once again admire the severe beauty of the Kuril nature.

To obtain current information about flights, services, and rules at Yasny Airport (Iturup), you can use the following contact details:

• Official Website: You can find flight schedules and general information for passengers on the official website aeroport-yasniy.ru.
• Information Desk Phone: +7 (42454) 2-28-17. This is the main number for enquiries about departures, arrivals, and airport services.
• Airport Address: Sakhalin Region, Kurilsky Urban District, Reidovo village.
• Email: An official email address is not provided. It is recommended to contact via phone.
• Social Media: Currently, the airport does not maintain official pages on social networks.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact the information desk at the main airport number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: To resolve any questions arising for passengers, please use the airport information desk phone number.

Yasny Airport (Iturup) is the main air gateway to Iturup Island. Given the remoteness and specific nature of the island, transport connections here have their own peculiarities. It is best to plan your journey to the airport from Kurilsk or other settlements in advance.

Public Transport

Regular bus services between Kurilsk and Yasny Airport are generally absent. Sometimes local transport companies may organise trips tied to the flight arrival and departure schedule, but this is not guaranteed. It is not advisable to rely on this method; information must be verified directly on-site upon arrival on the island.

Taxi and Transfer

The most convenient and reliable way to get to the airport is a pre-booked transfer or taxi. You can arrange a ride through your hotel, guest house, or a local tour operator. This allows you to be sure that the car will arrive at the appointed time. The trip from the centre of Kurilsk, the island's main town, takes approximately 20–30 minutes. It is better to clarify the cost at the time of booking, as it may be negotiable.

Car Rental

Opportunities for car rental on Iturup are limited, and there are no offices of major international rental chains here. Services may be provided by local private entrepreneurs, but this must be arranged well in advance. To move around the island, you will need an SUV. If you have rented a car, driving to the airport will not be difficult — the road is of good quality.

Parking at the Airport

There is a small parking area near the terminal building where you can leave a car for a short time to drop off or pick up passengers. Options for long-term guarded parking will likely be unavailable or require individual arrangement.

Other Nearby Airports

It is worth noting that there are other airports in the region, but they are located on other islands or on the mainland, at a significant distance, and can only be reached by water or air. These include Mendeleyevo in Yuzhno-Kurilsk, as well as the airports of Nakashibetsu, Memanbetsu, Monbetsu, and Kushiro.

Yasny Airport (ITU) is a modern yet very compact aviation hub. Its infrastructure is designed taking into account the small passenger flow, which makes navigation intuitive and fast for all travellers.

The airport operates just one passenger terminal, which serves both departing and arriving flights. Thanks to this, you will not have to worry about transferring between buildings — everything is in one place. The terminal layout is extremely simple: upon entering the building, you immediately find yourself in the common area, where the check-in counters and the main waiting hall are located.

The departure and arrival zones are logically separated but are within walking distance of each other. The departure zone includes check-in counters and a security checkpoint, after passing which passengers enter a small holding area before boarding. The arrival zone consists of a baggage claim hall located right at the exit to the city. Getting lost here is practically impossible.

Passing all pre-flight formalities usually does not take much time. Check-in and security checks typically last no more than 20-30 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance, approximately 1.5 hours before departure, to drop off luggage without rushing and complete all procedures, especially considering the region's changeable weather conditions which can affect the schedule.

Yasny Airport (ITU) is a modern facility and one of the newest airports in the region, playing a key role in the transport accessibility of Iturup Island. Its history does not go back decades, but it is a shining example of solving complex infrastructure challenges and creating a reliable air bridge for a remote territory.

The need for a new airport on the island had been evident for a long time. The previous airfield was frequently closed due to difficult meteorological conditions, primarily fog, making air travel unstable. To ensure regular and safe flights, a decision was made to build a modern air harbour in a different location that was more favourable in terms of weather.

Construction of the airport complex began in 2007 and became one of the largest projects in the region. The historic event took place on September 22, 2014, when Yasny Airport was officially commissioned. On this day, it received its first regular flight, marking a new era in the island's transport logistics. This moment became a real celebration for the local residents.

An interesting fact and the main achievement of Yasny is that it is the first major airport built "from scratch" in the region in the post-Soviet period. It was designed and constructed using modern technologies, including a runway 2300 metres long and advanced lighting and radio-technical equipment. Thanks to this, being inherently modern, the airport has not required large-scale renovations and has provided stable air connections for residents and guests of Iturup since its opening.

Yasny Airport (ITU) is a modern and compact aviation hub providing passengers with all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its small size, the terminal is designed with the needs of travellers arriving on or leaving Iturup Island in mind.

Inside the terminal building, there is a café where you can have a snack, coffee, or tea before departure. A small shop is also open for passengers, selling souvenirs reminiscent of the trip to the Kuril Islands and travel goods. The selection of establishments corresponds to the regional status of the airport and focuses on meeting basic needs.

A common hall with comfortable seating is equipped for waiting for flights. Passengers can use free Wi-Fi to contact loved ones or attend to work matters. The waiting hall also has charging stations for mobile devices. Separate VIP lounges are generally not provided at the airport, but the general area is sufficiently comfortable.

An ATM is located within the terminal territory where cash can be withdrawn. It is worth noting that full-service bank branches and currency exchange points may be absent, so it is better to resolve financial matters in advance. A medical point operates to provide emergency assistance.

For passengers with small children, a mother and child room is equipped — a special room where you can feed and change a baby in a quiet environment. The airport is also accessible for passengers with reduced mobility: a barrier-free environment has been created, and necessary assistance is provided during boarding and disembarking.

There are no hotels directly on the airport grounds. The nearest accommodation options are located in the town of Kurilsk and other settlements on the island. Services for renting conference rooms or business centres are not provided at Yasny Airport, as it is primarily oriented towards serving passenger transport.

Yasny Airport (ITU) on Iturup Island is a small and modern terminal complex, so the choice of dining establishments here corresponds to its size. Passengers should not expect the variety found in major international hubs; however, everything necessary for a comfortable wait is available. The main food outlet is located in the common hall of the single terminal, before the security checkpoint, making it accessible to both departing passengers and those seeing them off.

A café or buffet operates in the airport building, where you can have a snack or a hot drink. Sandwiches, fresh pastries, or chocolate are excellent for a quick bite. If there is more time before departure, you can order a more substantial hot dish, such as the soup of the day or a main course. Sometimes the menu may feature items with local flair, for example, fish pies or desserts with Sakhalin berries — this is a wonderful opportunity to try something local before flying out.

The café's operating hours are usually tied to the flight schedule, so it is open to serve passengers for both morning and evening departures. Prices at the establishment can be described as moderate, standard for small regional airports. It is important to note that specialised dietary menus (vegetarian, gluten-free, or strictly Halal certified) are likely not represented here. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it is recommended to bring food with you.

Planning a trip through Yasny Airport on Iturup Island requires taking local specifics into account. To ensure your journey goes smoothly, follow these tips.

Arrival Time at the Airport. Although Yasny Airport is small, it is recommended to arrive well in advance — approximately 2–2.5 hours before departure. The weather on the Kuril Islands is unpredictable, and this can affect the journey to the airport. It is better to have a time buffer in case of unforeseen circumstances.

Check-in and Security. Whenever possible, use online check-in for your flight — this will save time. Security procedures at the airport are standard, but due to the low passenger flow, they usually go faster than in major hubs. Nevertheless, do not be late, especially during the peak tourist season.

Seat Selection on the Plane. Fantastic views open up when departing from or approaching the island. Try to occupy a window seat to enjoy the panorama of volcanoes, bays, and the ocean. Depending on the flight route, the best views can be from either the left or right side of the aircraft.

Hand Luggage. Rules for carrying hand luggage are standard: liquids in containers up to 100 ml must be packed in a transparent bag; sharp and cutting objects are prohibited. If you are carrying local delicacies as souvenirs, such as caviar, check the rules for its carriage in hand luggage and checked baggage with the airline in advance.

Transfers. Most flights from Yasny Airport are operated with a transfer in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk. Given the high probability of flight delays due to weather conditions, allow at least 3–4 hours for the transfer. This will save you from stress and missing your connecting flight.

Customs Control. Since flights from Yasny Airport are domestic, passing through international customs control is not required. However, all passengers and luggage are subject to mandatory screening by the security service.

Saving Time and Money. It is better to buy tickets for flights from Iturup well in advance, especially for the summer months, as demand is high and the number of flights is limited. Prices for food and drinks at the airport may be higher than average, so it makes sense to bring a light snack and a bottle for water, which can be filled after the security check.

Flight Delays. Flight delays and cancellations due to fog or strong winds are common for the Kurils. Before leaving for the airport, be sure to check the status of your flight on the airline's website. In case of a long wait, have a portable charger, a book, or downloaded films with you. During a long delay, the airline is obliged to provide passengers with drinks, hot meals, and, if necessary, hotel accommodation.