Markovo Airport

Markovo Airport is not just a runway, but a true lifeline for one of the most remote corners of Russia, located in Chukotka. It serves as a reliable bridge connecting residents with the "mainland" and ensuring transport accessibility in harsh climatic conditions. For a traveler arriving here, it is a gateway to a world of pristine nature, authentic northern culture, and unique adventures.

The main feature of the airport is its strategic importance. It is capable of receiving aircraft in difficult weather conditions, which is vital for a region with limited ground transportation. The airport is designed to handle aircraft such as An-24, An-26, An-74, and all types of helicopters, which are the main mode of transport in Chukotka.

The terminal building is small and functional, eliminating long waits and bustle. Everything here is simple and clear in a northern way: navigation will not cause difficulties even for those who have arrived for the first time. Despite its modest size, the airport fulfills its main task — ensuring reliable and safe connection with the rest of the world for residents and guests of this amazing region.

• Official airport website: fkpach.ru (Branch of FKP "Airports of Chukotka")
• Help desk phone: +7 (42732) 9-14-44
• Airport address: 689530, Russia, Chukotka Autonomous Okrug, Anadyrsky District, Markovo village, Vokzalnaya st., 1
• Email: markovo@fkpach.ru
• Airport social media: Official accounts are missing
• Lost luggage information: Questions can be clarified via the help desk phone +7 (42732) 9-14-44
• Passenger support contacts: +7 (42732) 9-14-44 (during airport operating hours)

Markovo Airport is located in the immediate vicinity of the residential part of the village of the same name. Given the compact size of the settlement and its location in a remote area of Chukotka, the transport infrastructure here has its own unique features, distinct from large cities.

Public Transport

There is no customary urban public transport system (scheduled buses, fixed-route taxis) in the village. Metro and railway services are also not present in this region. In summer and during good weather, many passengers traveling light can reach the terminal on foot, as the distance from the village center is minimal.

Taxi and Transfer

There are no official taxi services or aggregators (Uber, Yandex, etc.) in Markovo. Transport connection relies on personal agreements.

• Private drivers: You can make arrangements with local residents who own cars (UAZ, all-terrain vehicles) or snowmobiles in the winter period.
• Transfer: If you are staying with locals or visiting the village for work, the hosting party usually organizes a meet-and-greet.

Car Rental and Parking

Car rental services (Rent-a-Car) are absent in Markovo. Near the airport building, there is an open area used for dropping off passengers. There is no specialized paid parking; parking is spontaneous and free. Leaving transport unattended for a long time is not recommended due to harsh climatic conditions.

Travel Time and Recommendations

The journey from any point in the village to the airport takes 5–10 minutes by transport or about 15–25 minutes on foot. However, tourists should note that the weather in Chukotka changes rapidly. Before departure, especially if your flight is heading to the main regional hub — Ugolny Airport (Anadyr), it is recommended to check meteorological conditions, as fog or blizzards can make adjustments to the schedule and road accessibility.

Markovo Airport (KVM) is a small and compact aviation hub distinguished by a simple and clear structure. You will not have to worry about complex transitions and long corridors, making it convenient for passengers who value their time.

The airport operates one passenger terminal, which services all flights — both arrivals and departures. Thanks to this, orienting yourself here is very easy. All key zones are located within walking distance of each other. Upon entering the terminal, you immediately find yourself in the common hall, where the check-in counters and security screening area are located. After passing security control, passengers proceed to a small waiting room where the boarding gates are situated.

Departure and arrival zones are logically separated despite the general compactness of the building. The Departure Zone includes check-in counters and pre-flight screening. The Arrival Zone is located in a separate part of the terminal and consists of a baggage claim area and an exit to the city. Since there is only one terminal, transitions between zones take mere minutes, and you will not need shuttles or buses.

Passing all formalities usually does not take much time. Flight check-in and baggage drop-off proceed quite quickly. The screening procedure is also organized efficiently. On average, all pre-flight formalities take about 30-40 minutes, however, it is recommended to arrive at the airport as standard — 1.5-2 hours before departure to avoid rushing.

For navigation through the terminal, it is sufficient to follow the signs, which are simple and understandable. Given the small size of the airport, getting lost here is practically impossible. The entire path from the building entrance to the boarding gate is intuitive and will not cause difficulties even for those flying from Markovo for the first time.

The history of Markovo Airport (KVM) is a chronicle of the development of Chukotka and human struggle against harsh northern nature. The air harbor became a true "road of life" for this remote village, connecting it with the rest of the world. Although the first planes landed here earlier, the starting point in the airport's history is considered to be 1947, when regular air service was established.

In the first decades of its existence, the airport was a dirt runway servicing light aircraft, such as the An-2. They delivered mail, food, medicines, and other vital cargo. The main stage of development was modernization during the Soviet period, when the strip was widened and strengthened to receive larger turboprop aircraft like the An-24 and An-26. This allowed for stable passenger and cargo connections with Anadyr and other settlements in the region.

Throughout its history, Markovo Airport has been inextricably linked with the life of the settlement. All its work is subject to harsh Arctic conditions, where the weather can change in a matter of minutes. In the modern history of Russia, within the framework of development programs for the Far East and the Arctic, the airport was included in reconstruction plans. Modernization is aimed at improving flight safety and enhancing infrastructure for passengers, confirming its strategic importance today.

Interesting fact: due to the complex terrain and local climate features, Markovo Airport is still considered one of the challenging ones for pilots. A successful landing here largely depends on the skill and experience of the crew. Despite all difficulties, the airport has been flawlessly fulfilling its main mission for decades — providing connection and support for residents of one of the country's most remote corners.

Markovo Airport (KVM) is a small regional airfield providing air connection with the district center. Passengers should prepare in advance for the fact that the range of services here is minimal and corresponds to the conditions of a remote area. The terminal is a small building containing only the essentials for check-in and waiting for a flight.

Restaurants, Cafes, and Shops

There are no full-service dining establishments, cafeterias, or Duty-Free shops in the terminal building. Retail infrastructure is often limited to a small kiosk with a minimal set of goods (water, sweets), but its operation depends on the flight schedule and may be irregular. Travelers are strongly advised to bring food and water with them, especially if waiting for a flight with children.

Waiting Rooms and Communications

A general waiting room is provided for passengers — a heated room with seating where you can comfortably wait for boarding. There are no business lounges, VIP lounges, or zones for loyalty card holders (Priority Pass) at the airport. Public Wi-Fi is generally absent or works intermittently. It is recommended to rely on mobile internet from federal operators, however, signal quality inside the building may be unstable. Special charging stations for gadgets are not provided, so it is worth charging devices in advance or carrying a power bank.

Financial and Medical Services

There are no ATMs or currency exchange points in the terminal. Payment for goods and services (including taxis or transfers in the village) is made primarily in cash, so it is important to prepare the necessary amount before arriving at the airport. For first aid, a medical point operates, where you can turn if you feel unwell before the flight.

Services for Passengers with Children and Reduced Mobility

There may not be a separate mother and child room with changing tables and play areas at the airport; the possibility of finding a private space with an infant should be clarified with airport staff on-site. Service for passengers with reduced mobility is based on individual assistance from personnel. Since airbridges and elevators are absent, staff assist with boarding and disembarking from the aircraft. The need for such assistance must be notified to the airline when booking the ticket.

Accommodation and Business Services

There are no hotels, capsule hotels, or rest rooms on the airport territory. The nearest accommodation options are in the village of Markovo (in the private sector or a local hotel), which can be reached in a few minutes. Business infrastructure (conference halls, meeting rooms, printing services) is not represented in the terminal building.

When planning a departure from Markovo (KVM) Airport, it is important to consider that this is a small regional aviation hub, and the choice of dining establishments here is quite limited. The airport's infrastructure is oriented towards servicing local flights, so one should not expect a wide variety of restaurants or cafes.

Generally, all available options for a snack are concentrated in a single buffet or small cafe located in the general waiting hall before the security zone. Here, passengers can purchase basic drinks, such as tea, coffee, and bottled water, as well as simple snacks: sandwiches, pastries (pies, buns), and chocolate. Sometimes simple hot dishes, for example, soup or sausages, may be on the menu, but this is not guaranteed.

Specialized dietary options, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes, are practically impossible to find here. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it is strongly recommended to bring food with you. Prices in the buffet are usually moderate, corresponding to the level of small regional airports. The establishment's operating hours are generally tied to the flight schedule: it opens shortly before departure and closes after the last plane leaves.

Thus, Markovo Airport is suitable for a quick snack or buying a drink before a flight. If you are counting on a full lunch or dinner, it is better to have it in advance at one of the establishments in the village of Markovo before arriving at the airport.

To ensure your journey through Markovo Airport leaves only pleasant impressions, it is worth considering the features of this small northern aviation hub. A few simple tips will help you prepare for the flight and avoid surprises.

Arrival Time and Formalities. Markovo Airport is compact, and all procedures here proceed quite quickly. We recommend arriving 1.5–2 hours before departure. This time is enough to calmly check in at the counter (online check-in is usually unavailable), drop off luggage, and pass security screening without rushing.

Readiness for Delays. The main factor influencing flight schedules in this region is severe weather conditions. Departures may be delayed or rescheduled, so be mentally prepared for this. To make waiting comfortable, bring a charged power bank, a book, or download movies to your device.

Service and Payment. The infrastructure at the airport is basic. There is a waiting room, but the choice of cafes and shops is limited. It is better to have a small supply of water and snacks with you. We also advise carrying cash, as the ability to pay by bank card may not be available everywhere.

Luggage and Hand Luggage. Before the trip, be sure to check the luggage and hand luggage allowance rules on your airline's website. Standard security rules apply here as well: liquids are allowed in containers up to 100 ml, and external batteries (power banks) can be transported only in hand luggage.

Transport. Since Markovo is a small settlement in Russia, transport connection with the airport may be irregular. We recommend arranging a transfer or taxi in advance so as not to waste time looking for a car upon arrival.