Grabtsevo

Kaluga International Airport (Grabtsevo) is a modern air gateway, opening convenient doors to the heart of Central Russia. Following a massive reconstruction, this compact aviation hub has become a symbol of comfort, offering passengers a worthy alternative to the noisy and overcrowded capital airports. Here, in an atmosphere of tranquillity and high technology, your journey begins not with exhausting queues, but with the pleasant anticipation of flight. The airport successfully combines warm hospitality with high standards of safety and service.

Terminal Features and Advantages

The key advantage of Grabtsevo Airport is the speed of service. Thanks to the terminal's compactness and well-thought-out logistics, all pre-flight procedures take a minimum amount of time. Passengers can afford to arrive at the airport a little later than usual, avoiding unnecessary stress. The absence of huge crowds and the intuitive navigation make this hub particularly convenient for families with children and those who value peace of mind.

Equally important is its strategic location. The airport is located near the M-3 "Ukraine" federal highway, making it a convenient departure point not only for Kaluga residents but also for residents of neighbouring regions — Tula, Oryol, and Bryansk. The renovated runway allows for the reception of common liner types, such as the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737, ensuring reliable connections with popular resorts and cities across Russia.

• Official Website: klf.aero
• Information Desk Phone: +7 (4842) 770-007
• Address: Kaluga Airport Territory (Grabtsevo), Kaluga, Russia
• Email: info@klf.aero
• Social Media: Current news and updates for passengers are published on the airport's official pages on popular social networks.
• Lost & Found: For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, it is recommended to contact the Lost & Found service via the main airport phone number or directly through your airline representative.
• Passenger Support: For assistance and consultations, you may contact the airport information desk at the phone number listed above.

You can reach Grabtsevo International Airport (KLF), located near Kaluga, in several convenient ways. The most budget-friendly option is public transport. City bus No. 4 runs to the airport, passing through the central districts of the city. The fare usually does not exceed 30 Rubles, making this the most economical choice for those travelling light. Be sure to check the current schedule and route before your trip.

A more comfortable and faster method is a taxi or private transfer. The journey from the city centre to the terminal takes on average 25–40 minutes, and the cost will be approximately 400–600 Rubles, depending on traffic conditions and the taxi service. You can order a car via popular mobile apps or use the services of local operators. Pre-booking a transfer is particularly convenient if you are travelling with large luggage or as a family.

For those who value mobility and plan to explore the surroundings, car rental is suitable. Both local and federal rental agencies operate in Kaluga. There is paid parking on the territory of Grabtsevo Airport where you can leave your personal vehicle for the duration of your trip, which is very convenient for residents of the city and region.

To summarise, the choice of transport depends on your budget, time, and preferences. Public transport is the most economical, a taxi is the fastest, and a rental car is the most flexible option. Our advice: always leave for the airport with time to spare, especially if your trip falls during morning or evening peak hours.

Grabtsevo Airport (KLF) is a modern and compact aviation hub distinguished by a simple and clear structure. Travellers can easily orient themselves here, even if visiting for the first time.

The airport operates one passenger terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights. Thanks to this, you do not have to worry about transferring between different buildings — all procedures, from check-in to boarding the aircraft, take place in one location. Zones for domestic and international passengers are separated but located within the same complex.

The terminal layout is intuitive. On the ground floor, you will find check-in counters, the arrival area with baggage claim belts, and the main hall. After check-in, passengers proceed to the first floor, where they undergo pre-flight security screening and enter the "secure area" — the departure lounge. Navigation through the terminal is effortless: clear signs in Russian and English are installed throughout.

Due to the small size of the airport, completing all formalities typically takes little time. Flight check-in and baggage drop-off usually proceed quickly, and there are rarely long queues for pre-flight security. On average, all procedures can be completed in 30-40 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport as per standard practice — 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight and 2.5-3 hours before an international one.

The main recommendation for navigation is simple: follow the signs. All key zones — from check-in counters to boarding gates — are within walking distance of each other, making it practically impossible to get lost in Grabtsevo Airport.

The history of Grabtsevo Airport is a vivid example of renaissance. The air terminal was opened in 1970 and served as a vital transport hub for the Kaluga region for two decades. Regular flights were operated from here to Moscow, Leningrad, Sochi, and other cities of the USSR on An-24, Yak-40, and Tu-134 aircraft. The airfield was also actively used for agricultural aviation needs.

After the dissolution of the Soviet Union, difficult times befell the airport. In 2001, it ceased operations and was mothballed. For over a decade, the runway became overgrown with grass, and the infrastructure fell into decay. The territory of the former airport was even used for car races and other events, which seemed to be the final chapter in its aviation history.

However, in 2013, a full-scale revival of Grabtsevo began. In effect, the airport was rebuilt from scratch: the runway was reconstructed, modern lighting and radio engineering equipment were installed, and a new passenger terminal was erected. In May 2015, the airport ceremoniously resumed operations, and as early as August of that same year, it received international status.

Today, Kaluga International Airport (Grabtsevo) is a modern and dynamically developing aviation complex. It plays a key role in the transport accessibility of the region, serving both domestic and international flights. The revival of the airport has become a powerful stimulus for the economic and tourism development of the Kaluga region, transforming it from an abandoned site into a symbol of successful modernisation.

Kaluga International Airport "Grabtsevo" (KLF) offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its compact size, the terminal is designed to ensure convenience upon both departure and arrival.

Within the terminal, there are cafés and coffee shops where you can have a snack or enjoy a coffee. There are also small shops offering souvenirs, travel essentials, and fresh press. For those who prefer quick solutions, vending machines with drinks and snacks are available.

A general hall is equipped for comfortable waiting, while passengers valuing enhanced comfort can utilise the services of the Business Lounge. It offers comfortable seating, snacks, beverages, and Wi-Fi in a more tranquil setting. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and power outlets and charging stations for mobile devices are provided in the waiting halls.

ATMs are installed in the airport for cash withdrawals. If necessary, first aid can be provided at the medical station. For passengers with small children, a Mother and Child room is equipped where you can care for your baby in a quiet environment. The airport also provides services for passengers with reduced mobility, including special assistance from the terminal entrance to boarding the aircraft.

Although there are no hotels directly inside the airport building, several hotels are located in the immediate vicinity, and Kaluga itself, which can be quickly reached by taxi, offers a wide selection of accommodation options. For business travellers, basic business services, such as document copying or printing, are available in the Business Lounge.

At Grabtsevo Airport (KLF) in Kaluga, the choice of dining establishments corresponds to the size of a compact regional hub. The main options are located in the general hall of the passenger terminal, accessible to departing passengers as well as those seeing them off or meeting them.

For a full lunch or dinner, you can go up to the first floor of the terminal, where the "Polyot" (Flight) café is located. Guests are offered a menu with popular dishes of Russian and European cuisine: from light salads and sandwiches to hearty soups and hot meals. This is an ideal place to eat calmly before undergoing pre-flight security. The café's opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule.

For those short on time, vending machines with a standard set of snacks, chocolate, and soft drinks are a convenient solution. They are available in both the general area and the "secure" departure zone. Although the café does not serve exotic dishes, do not miss the opportunity to take a piece of local gastronomy with you. In the airport souvenir shop, you can find the famous local dessert — "Kaluzhskoye Testo". This original treat, reminiscent of gingerbread or fruit paste, makes an excellent edible souvenir.

Passengers with strict dietary requirements (for example, Halal, vegetarian, or gluten-free diets) should note that the selection of specialised dishes may be limited. It is recommended to bring food with you. Prices in the café and vending machines are expectedly higher than in the city, which is standard practice for airports.

To ensure your journey through Grabtsevo Airport in the city of Kaluga goes smoothly and without hassle, make use of our tips. This small and modern airport serves both domestic and international flights, and knowing a few nuances will help save time and nerves.

Arrival Time at the Airport. Despite the compact size of Grabtsevo Airport, it is recommended to arrive in advance. The optimal time is 2 hours before departure for a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one. This margin is sufficient to calmly complete all pre-flight formalities, even if there is a small queue at the check-in counters or security.

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 your seat in advance and receive your boarding pass via email. If you only have hand luggage, you can proceed directly to security. The security procedure is standard, but be prepared to remove all electronics and liquid containers from your bag.

Seat Selection. A classic choice: a window seat for beautiful views and photos, or an aisle seat for more legroom and the ability to stand up freely without disturbing neighbours. For short flights from Kaluga, the choice is not as critical, but if you are flying with children, it is better to book seats together in advance.

Hand Luggage. It is prohibited to carry liquids in containers exceeding 100 ml, sharp objects (manicure scissors, knives), and flammable substances in hand luggage. Be sure to pack documents, money, medication, a portable charger, and valuables in your carry-on. Baggage allowance rules may differ slightly between airlines, so it is best to verify information on their official website before travelling.

Connecting Passengers. Grabtsevo Airport is rarely used as a major transit hub. If you do have a transfer planned, check with your airline whether you need to collect your luggage and check it in again. Thanks to the small size of the terminal, moving between zones will not take much time.

Customs Control. This procedure is relevant for passengers departing on international flights. The rules are standard: proceed through the "Green Channel" if you have no goods to declare, or through the "Red Channel" if you are carrying amounts of cash or goods exceeding established limits.

Saving Time and Money. To save, check in online and verify baggage allowances in advance to avoid surcharges for excess weight. Bring an empty water bottle that can be filled after passing security, and a light snack, as prices at airports are usually higher.

Flight Delays. In the event of a flight delay, contact your airline representative. Depending on the length of the wait, you are entitled to drinks, hot meals, and, if necessary, hotel accommodation. To avoid boredom, download films or books to your phone or tablet in advance. The airport has a café and a waiting area where you can spend time comfortably.