Uytash

Uytash International Airport, named after the twice Hero of the Soviet Union Amet-Khan Sultan, serves as the main air gateway to Dagestan and the starting point for exploring this amazing region. Located near the Caspian Sea, it welcomes travelers ready to discover ancient Derbent fortresses, majestic mountains, and a unique culture. The name "Uytash" translates from Turkic languages as "stone house," symbolizing the hospitality and reliability of this important transport hub, the history of which began back in 1927. Today, it is a modern and dynamically developing airport connecting the region with dozens of cities.

Uytash Airport is constantly being modernized to ensure passenger comfort and safety. In recent years, large-scale reconstruction has been carried out here: a new terminal for international flights was built, and the runway is being updated, allowing the airport to receive wide-body aircraft such as the Boeing 767. Inside the terminal complex, travelers will find everything they need: cozy cafes, shops, ATMs, a mother and child room, and luggage storage. Thanks to its strategic location, the airport is a convenient hub for further travel throughout Dagestan, opening access to its main attractions.

• Official Website: www.mcx.aero
• Information Desk Phone: +7 (8722) 98-88-66
• Address: Russia, Republic of Dagestan, Makhachkala, Airport
• Email: info@mcx.aero
• Social Media: The airport maintains active pages on VKontakte and Telegram.
• Lost and Found: For information regarding lost or damaged luggage, please contact: +7 (988) 291-53-09.
• Passenger Support: For all questions related to airport services, please contact the unified information desk.

Uytash Airport (MCX) is located approximately 25 km south of the center of Makhachkala, and there are several ways to reach it. The most convenient and fastest option is a taxi or pre-booked transfer. A ride can easily be organized via mobile apps popular in Russia. On average, the journey from the city center takes 30–40 minutes, though this time may increase during peak hours. The cost of the trip usually ranges from 600–800 rubles, depending on the car class and demand. A taxi is the ideal choice for travelers with bulky luggage or those who value comfort.

For more budget-conscious tourists, there is the option to travel by public transport. Minibuses (marshrutkas) run between the city and the airport. This is the most economical way to get to the terminal, with a fare of about 80–100 rubles. However, it may be less convenient if you have heavy suitcases, as the cabin can be crowded. The trip by minibus will take more time — about 1 hour or longer, depending on traffic conditions and stops. It is recommended to check the current route number and schedule before your trip.

If you plan to actively explore the region, renting a car is a good solution. Car rental desks are available both at the airport and within the city limits. For those arriving by personal transport, there is paid parking on the airport territory, offering both short-term and long-term parking options.

When planning a trip to the airport, always allow extra time for the road to avoid missing your flight due to potential traffic jams. The choice of transport depends on your budget and preferences: a taxi ensures a fast and comfortable transfer, while a minibus helps you save significantly.

Uytash Airport (MCX) in Makhachkala has a simple and clear structure that allows passengers to navigate easily. The complex consists of several terminals separated by flight type, which helps optimize passenger flows and speed up pre-flight formalities.

The main passenger flow is handled in two main terminals:

• Terminal A (Domestic) is designed for domestic airlines. It is the largest and most modern building of the airport, serving all flights within Russia.
• Terminal B (International) serves international flights. It is smaller in size and has its own customs and border control zone.

Both terminals are separate buildings located in close proximity to each other. There is also a separate VIP Terminal on the premises for passengers who prefer an enhanced level of comfort.

The airport layout is quite compact. Departure and arrival zones are clearly demarcated. Inside the terminals, signs in Russian and English help locate check-in counters, boarding gates, and other necessary services. Transferring between Terminals A and B does not require special transport — they are a couple of minutes' walk from each other, which is very convenient when planning connecting flights.

Departure zones in both terminals are equipped with everything necessary: check-in counters, security checkpoints, waiting halls, and boarding gates. Arrival zones are generally located on the ground floors and include baggage claim belts and exits to parking and public transport stops. In the international Terminal B, passport and customs control zones are additionally organized.

Processing times at Makhachkala airport are usually shorter than in major capital hubs. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive in advance: 1.5–2 hours before a domestic flight and 2.5–3 hours before an international one. This time is sufficient to check in, drop off luggage, and pass security screening without rushing, which may take longer during peak hours or the tourist season.

For comfortable navigation through Uytash Airport, we advise you to check in advance from which terminal (A or B) your flight operates. Upon arrival at the airport, keep an eye on the electronic departure and arrival boards — they display all current flight information, including check-in counter numbers and boarding gates. Thanks to its small size and logical layout, navigating here will be easy even for first-time visitors.

The history of Uytash Airport in Makhachkala is the history of the development of air travel for all of Dagestan. Although the first flights connected the city with other regions back in 1927, the airport in its current form began operations much later. Construction of the complex near the Uytash settlement began in the 1950s, and the first terminal welcomed passengers in 1958. During the Soviet era, the airport was the republic's main air hub, ensuring stable connections with major cities of the USSR.

A new stage in the airport's development began after the dissolution of the Soviet Union. In 1996, Uytash received international status, opening new prospects for the region. However, to meet modern requirements and accommodate larger aircraft, large-scale modernization was required. This key phase took place in the 2010s.

In 2014, one of the most significant reconstructions in the airport's history was completed. A full modernization of the runway was carried out — it was lengthened and strengthened, allowing for the reception of modern aircraft such as the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320. In parallel, construction of a new terminal for international flights was underway. These changes radically transformed the airport, increasing its capacity and the level of comfort for passengers.

An interesting fact from the airport's recent history is connected to its name. In 2019, as part of the nationwide "Great Names of Russia" project, Uytash Airport was named after Amet-Khan Sultan — a legendary Soviet ace pilot, twice Hero of the Soviet Union, and a native of Dagestan. Today, Makhachkala (Uytash) Airport named after Amet-Khan Sultan is a modern and dynamically developing transport hub playing a key role in the life of Russia and the entire North Caucasus region.

Uytash Airport (MCX) in Makhachkala offers passengers all necessary amenities to make waiting for a flight comfortable and pleasant. Conditions have been created in the terminal for both short-term stays and long waits for connecting flights.

While waiting for departure, you can have a snack in one of the cafes serving local and European cuisine, or have a coffee with fresh pastries. In the airport shops, you can purchase souvenirs, Dagestani delicacies, and travel goods. For those who prefer enhanced comfort, a VIP lounge operates with comfortable armchairs, snacks, and beverages. There is also plenty of seating in the general waiting hall.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay connected or work. Special stands and power outlets are provided for charging electronic devices. ATMs are installed in the airport, and if necessary, you can use the services of the medical point, which operates around the clock.

A mother and child room is equipped for passengers with children, where you can feed and change a baby in a quiet environment. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with all necessary assistance: escort across the airport territory, and assistance with check-in and boarding. It is recommended to notify the airline of your needs in advance.

Although there are no hotels directly in the terminal building, there are many hotels to suit every taste and budget nearby in the cities of Kaspiysk and Makhachkala. For business travelers, basic business services, such as workspaces and access to office equipment, are usually available in the VIP lounge.

At Uytash Airport (MCX), passengers can find several options for a snack or a full lunch to spend time comfortably while waiting for a flight. The main food outlets are concentrated in the terminal's general hall, accessible to both departing and arriving passengers.

For those who want a substantial meal, there are several cafes offering mixed cuisine — from familiar European to local Dagestani dishes. Here you can order hot dishes, soups, salads, and desserts. This is a great opportunity to try authentic food: pay attention to chudu (thin pies with various fillings, such as meat, cottage cheese, or herbs) or the hearty Dagestani khinkal. Such establishments are ideal for a leisurely lunch or dinner.

If time is limited, small coffee shops and buffets are at your service. You can quickly buy sandwiches, pastries, coffee, tea, and soft drinks. After passing security control in the departure zone (airside), the choice is generally more modest and limited to a small cafe or vending machines with snacks and beverages.

Regarding special dietary preferences, it is worth noting that the majority of meat dishes in the region are Halal by default. Vegetarians will easily find options for themselves, for example, pastries with potatoes, cottage cheese, or pumpkin. For vegans and people on a gluten-free diet, the choice may be limited, so it is recommended to carry suitable snacks with you.

Prices in Uytash Airport establishments are moderate, comparable to other regional airports in Russia. The opening hours of most cafes and restaurants are tied to the flight schedule, ensuring food availability at almost any time of departure or arrival.

To ensure your journey through Uytash Airport in Makhachkala goes smoothly, follow these tips. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2-3 hours before a domestic flight and 3-4 hours before an international one. This time is enough for check-in, baggage drop, and security screening without rushing, especially during the peak tourist season. To save time, complete online check-in on the airline's website.

Be careful when packing hand luggage. Standard rules limit the carriage of liquids (up to 100 ml in one container) and prohibit sharp objects. If you bought local delicacies as gifts, for example, urbech (nut paste) or sauces in large containers, they must be checked in. Always check the current rules of your airline, as they may differ slightly.

When choosing a seat on the plane, it all depends on your preferences: a window seat will allow you to enjoy views of the Caspian Sea and mountains during takeoff, while an aisle seat gives more legroom. If you have a connecting flight, check with the airline if your luggage will be transferred automatically. Uytash Airport is compact, so navigation will not cause difficulties.

Most flights from Makhachkala operate within Russia, so there is no customs control for such passengers — you only need to pass standard security screening. Customs and border formalities are provided only for passengers on international flights. Make sure you have all necessary documents for crossing the border at hand.

To save time and money, order a taxi through official apps or the counter at the airport, as prices from private drivers may be inflated. You can also take an empty bottle with you and fill it with water from a drinking fountain after the security zone to avoid buying expensive beverages.

In case of a flight delay, first find a representative of your airline. According to the rules, during a long wait, you should be provided with beverages, hot meals, and, if necessary, hotel accommodation. Keep all receipts if you had to incur additional expenses. You can spend the waiting time in one of the cafes or in the airport waiting hall.