Khibiny

Khibiny Airport (KVK) is not just an air harbour, but a true gateway to the Russian Arctic. Located beyond the Arctic Circle, at the foot of the majestic Khibiny Mountains, it is the first to welcome travellers eager for the Northern Lights and snow-covered slopes. From here begins the journey to some of the best ski resorts in Russia and unforgettable adventures on the Kola Peninsula. It is the highest-altitude airport in the North-West of the country, which in itself makes landing here a spectacular sight.

The main advantage of Khibiny Airport is its unique location. It is the closest airport to the popular ski resorts of Kirovsk, such as "Big Wood" (Bolshoy Vudyavr), making it the ideal arrival point for skiers and snowboarders. In 2023, a new modern terminal was opened, significantly increasing passenger comfort: it features cosy waiting lounges, cafes, and souvenir shops where you can buy a piece of the North as a keepsake.

Despite its compact size, the airport effectively handles the growing flow of tourists. Check-in and security procedures are quick, which is especially valuable after a flight. Transport connections with the cities are well-established: buses and fixed-route taxis run regularly from the terminal to Kirovsk and the neighbouring city of Apatity. The trip to the ski slopes takes less than an hour, allowing travellers to find themselves in the centre of the action almost immediately after landing.

• Official Website: hibiny.aero
• Information Desk Phone: +7 (815-31) 5-70-20
• Address: Murmansk Region, Apatity, Airport Territory (serves Kirovsk and Apatity).
• Email: info@hibiny.aero
• Social Media: You can find the latest news on the airport's official VKontakte page: vk.com/hibiny.aero.
• Lost Luggage: For questions regarding lost or damaged luggage, please contact +7 (921) 152-00-11 or email: lost-found@hibiny.aero.
• Passenger Support: For general information and assistance, it is recommended to contact the airport information desk via the main phone number.

Khibiny Airport (KVK) is located between the cities of Kirovsk and Apatity, making it a convenient gateway for travellers heading to ski resorts and natural attractions of the Kola Peninsula in Russia. There are several ways to get from the airport to your destination or, conversely, from the city to the airport.

Public Transport is the most budget-friendly option. Buses run between Kirovsk, the airport, and Apatity. For example, bus route No. 135 goes from Kirovsk to Apatity with a stop at the airport. It is important to remember that intervals between buses can be long, so it is strongly recommended to check the current schedule in advance, especially if your flight arrives or departs late in the evening or early in the morning. A bus ride from the centre of Kirovsk will take about 30-40 minutes.

Taxi and Transfer are the most comfortable and fastest methods. A trip from the centre of Kirovsk to the airport will take approximately 20-25 minutes. You can order a car through popular apps or use local taxi services. For large groups or travellers with ski equipment, it is convenient to book a transfer in advance. This option is more expensive than the bus but guarantees that you will reach your destination without transfers or waiting.

Car Rental is an ideal choice for those planning to move around the region actively and explore the surroundings of the Khibiny Mountains. Car rental desks can be found both at the airport itself and in the cities of Kirovsk and Apatity. It is recommended to book a car well in advance, especially during the peak tourist season (winter). Having your own transport will give you freedom of movement and allow you to visit remote natural beauty spots.

For those arriving at the airport in their own or rented car, parking is available on the territory of the airport complex. You can leave your car here for both short and long periods.

It is also worth considering an alternative route: many tourists fly into the larger airport of Murmansk (MMK), located approximately 200 km from Kirovsk, and from there get to the resort by bus, train, or rental car. This option may be convenient due to a larger number of flights.

Khibiny Airport is a modern and compact regional aviation hub. Its key feature is that it consists of one passenger terminal, which serves all domestic flights — both arrivals and departures. Thanks to this, navigating here is very easy, and passengers do not need to worry about long walks or complex layouts.

The terminal is a single building with a thoughtful and intuitive layout. Immediately after entering, you find yourself in the general hall, where the check-in counters and the main waiting area are located. The entrance to the pre-flight security zone and the exit for arriving passengers are also located here. Departure and arrival zones are on the same level, making movement around the airport as fast and comfortable as possible.

Passing through check-in and security at Khibiny Airport usually does not take much time due to the small passenger flow. On average, all procedures can be completed in 20-30 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance, approximately 1.5–2 hours before your flight departure. During the peak ski season, especially on holidays, passenger traffic may increase, so it is worth allowing a little more time for formalities.

Navigation within the terminal is extremely simple. All important areas — check-in counters, security zone, boarding gates, and baggage claim — are within walking distance of each other. Clear signs are installed throughout the building, and due to the small size of the terminal, getting lost here is practically impossible. This makes Khibiny Airport very convenient for travellers who value their time and comfort.

The history of Khibiny Airport, located at the foot of the mountain range of the same name, is inextricably linked with the industrial and tourist development of the entire Kola Peninsula. The air gates of the Apatity-Kirovsk agglomeration began operations in the 1970s, initially under the name "Apatity". During the Soviet period, the airfield played an important role in ensuring transport accessibility for mining enterprises, mainly accepting regional aircraft such as the An-24 and Yak-40.

A key moment in the modern history of the airport was a large-scale reconstruction, completed in 2013. This project was dictated by both the needs of large industry and the growing interest of tourists in the Khibiny ski resorts. During the modernization, the runway was significantly lengthened and strengthened, allowing it to accept medium-haul aircraft such as the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320. The terminal complex was also updated to meet modern passenger service standards.

It was after this reconstruction that the airport received its current name — "Khibiny", which better reflects its geographical location and tourist focus. An important achievement was the assignment of international status to the airport in 2013, which opened new prospects for the development of the region. The ability to accept modern liners allowed the launch of direct flights from Moscow, St. Petersburg, and other major cities in Russia, making travel to the Kola Peninsula fast and comfortable.

Interesting fact: Khibiny Airport is one of the few in the world located so close to the Arctic Circle and surrounded by picturesque mountains, the view of which opens up to passengers right during takeoff and landing. Today, it successfully combines two important functions: serving as a reliable transport hub for industrialists and being the starting point for thousands of travellers eager to see the Northern Lights, go skiing, or hike through the unique mountain tundras.

Despite its compact size, "Khibiny" Airport provides passengers with all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. The terminal has a cafe where you can have a snack before departure, as well as several souvenir shops offering products from local artisans and memorable gifts from the Arctic.

A general waiting hall is equipped for passengers. Those who prefer enhanced comfort can use the services of the VIP Lounge. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and there are power outlets for charging electronic devices in the waiting hall, allowing you to stay connected.

An ATM is installed in the terminal building. To ensure safety and provide assistance in emergency situations, a medical point operates around the clock. Travellers with small children can use the cosy and well-equipped Mother and Child Room.

The airport provides services for passengers with reduced mobility. Special staff are ready to assist with movement around the terminal, as well as with boarding and disembarking from the aircraft. To do this, it is recommended to notify the airline or airport in advance about the need for assistance.

There are no hotels directly on the territory of "Khibiny" Airport. The nearest accommodation options can be found in the cities of Apatity and Kirovsk, which are easily accessible by taxi or public transport. There are no specialized conference halls or business centres in the terminal, but necessary conditions for work can be found in hotels in the nearby cities.

"Khibiny" Airport (KVK) is small and compact, so the choice of dining establishments here is limited. Nevertheless, passengers can have a snack or a hot drink while waiting for their flight. All main food outlets are located in the general hall before the security zone (landside), so they can be used by both departing passengers and those meeting them.

A cafe-buffet operates in the terminal building, serving as the main place for food. Here you can have a full lunch or a quick snack. The menu usually includes simple and hearty dishes: soups, hot main courses (for example, meat patties with a side dish), salads, sandwiches, and fresh pastries. This is an ideal place to pass the time before departure with a cup of tea or coffee and a pastry.

Regarding local cuisine, the menu may feature dishes with a northern flair, such as pastries or drinks with local berries — cloudberries or lingonberries. Be sure to look out for this if you want to try something authentic. The price range in the cafe is average for Russian airports: the cost of dishes is higher than in the city, but quite affordable. The establishment's opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule, so it is open for all passengers.

Passengers with strict dietary restrictions should be prepared for the fact that specialized vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes are practically impossible to find here. Vegetarians will be able to choose simple salads, side dishes, or pastries without meat. If you have specific dietary needs, it is recommended to bring food with you.

For a quick snack, sandwiches, pastries, or chocolate bars from the assortment of the cafe and vending machines, which can also be found in the hall, are perfect. If you have time for a full lunch, the only option will be the same cafe offering hot dishes. After passing through security control (airside), dining opportunities are extremely limited, so it is better to eat beforehand.

To make your journey through Khibiny Airport as comfortable as possible, use our tips. Planning in advance will help avoid unnecessary stress and make the trip to Kirovsk or from it a pleasant part of your adventure.

Arrival time at the airport: Khibiny Airport is small and compact, but during the peak ski season (from December to April), passenger traffic increases significantly. We recommend arriving at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight departure. This time will be enough to check in luggage without rushing, pass security control, and proceed to boarding.

Check-in and Security: Check-in and security procedures here are standard. To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides this option. This will allow you to go straight to baggage drop-off (if you have any) or to security screening with a printed or mobile boarding pass.

Seat Selection on the Plane: If you want to enjoy stunning views of the Khibiny Mountains during takeoff or landing, choose a window seat. For greater comfort and the ability to leave the cabin faster upon arrival, an aisle seat is better suited.

Hand Luggage: Rules for carrying hand luggage are standard: liquids in containers up to 100 ml (total volume no more than 1 litre per passenger), packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects and other dangerous substances are prohibited. Important point for tourists: if you are carrying specific equipment, for example, avalanche transceivers, check the rules for their carriage with your airline in advance.

Connections and Customs: Khibiny Airport serves primarily domestic flights, so it is not a major transit hub. If you are planning a connection on your own, allow enough time between flights. There is no customs control for passengers on domestic flights within Russia, however, all passengers undergo mandatory pre-flight security screening.

Saving Time and Money:

• Check in for your flight online.
• Travel light with only hand luggage to avoid spending time checking in and claiming baggage.
• Book flight tickets in advance, especially if the trip falls during peak season — this way you can find more favourable fares.
• Keep in mind that the choice of cafes in a small airport may be limited, so you can bring a small snack (non-liquid) or an empty water bottle to fill after security.

In Case of Flight Delay: Delays, especially in winter due to harsh weather conditions, are not uncommon in the Arctic region. If your flight is delayed, contact an airline representative. Depending on the duration of the delay, you are entitled to drinks, hot meals, or hotel accommodation. We recommend always having a portable charger (power bank), an interesting book, or downloaded movies with you to brighten up the wait.