Sheremetyevo

Sheremetyevo International Airport, named after A.S. Pushkin, is not merely the main air gateway to Russia, but a veritable high-tech city where the paths of thousands of travellers cross every minute. It is the country's largest airport by passenger traffic, impressive in its scale and the futuristic architecture of its new terminals, which turn waiting for a flight into part of an exciting adventure. Here, Russian classics meet innovation: from interiors inspired by the Pushkin era to state-of-the-art navigation and biometric systems.

One of the main features of Sheremetyevo is its unique transport accessibility: high-speed "Aeroexpress" trains arrive directly at the terminal complex, allowing you to reach the capital's centre in just 35–50 minutes without traffic jams. The airport is divided into two complexes — Northern (Terminals B and C) and Southern (Terminals D, E, F), which are connected by an underground automated train running directly beneath the runways. Conditions of enhanced comfort have been created here for passengers: from capsule hotels for short-term rest to luxurious business lounges with panoramic views of the airfield.

Below is the essential contact information for Sheremetyevo International Airport (SVO) to help you plan your trip and resolve any potential queries.

• Official Website: www.svo.aero — here you will find the most up-to-date information on flights, services, and airport regulations.
• Unified Information Service: +7 (495) 578-65-65. The line operates 24/7, and operators are ready to answer any questions related to airport operations.
• Address: Moscow Region, Khimki, Sheremetyevo Airport. For navigation, simply enter "Sheremetyevo Airport" and select the required terminal.
• Email for Enquiries: callcenter@svo.aero. Recommended for non-urgent requests.
• Social Media: The airport has official pages on popular social networks, such as VKontakte and Telegram, where news and important announcements are published.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of lost luggage, you should contact the Lost & Found service of the specific airline you flew with. Baggage tracing counters are located in the arrival zones. Contact details for airline representatives can be found on the airport website.
• Passenger Support Service: for assistance and consultations, use the unified enquiry phone number or the feedback form on the official airport website.

There are several ways to get to Sheremetyevo International Airport (SVO), one of the largest aviation hubs in Moscow. The choice depends on your budget, time, amount of luggage, and personal preferences. When planning your trip, it is worth considering the traffic situation in the capital of Russia, which can significantly influence travel time.

Aeroexpress is the most reliable and generally the fastest way to get to the airport, bypassing city traffic jams. High-speed trains depart from Belorussky Railway Station (connected to the metro station of the same name) and deliver passengers directly to Terminals B and C. The travel time is about 50 minutes. This is an ideal option for those who value punctuality. Tickets can be purchased in advance online, at ticket offices, or via special vending machines at the station.

A more budget-friendly but less time-predictable option is a combination of metro and bus. From the "Khovrino" metro station (Zamoskvoretskaya line), the express bus No. 1195 runs to Terminals B and C. You can also reach Sheremetyevo by regular buses from "Rechnoy Vokzal" and "Planernaya" stations. At night, route H1 runs from "Kitay-gorod" station. A bus trip from the final metro station will take from 30 minutes, however, it is critically important to account for potential traffic jams.

Taxi or pre-booked transfer is the most comfortable method, especially if you are travelling with children or a large amount of luggage. A trip from the centre of Moscow will take on average from 45 to 90 minutes, but during peak hours it can take significantly longer. The cost depends on the chosen service, car class, demand, and traffic situation. It is recommended to use official ride-hailing apps to see a fixed price.

If you prefer to travel by private car, numerous parking lots are provided within the Sheremetyevo Airport territory. You can use short-term parking for quick drop-offs or pick-ups, as well as long-term parking if you plan to leave your car for the duration of your trip. To get better rates, it is recommended to book a parking space in advance via the official airport website.

To summarise: choose Aeroexpress for speed and predictability, the bus for maximum savings, and a taxi for comfort and "door-to-door" travel. Always allocate extra time for the journey. It is also worth remembering that the capital region is served by other airports, including Vnukovo (VKO) and Zhukovsky (ZIA), and routes to them will be different.

Sheremetyevo Airport (SVO) is a large and modern aviation hub consisting of several passenger terminals, which are grouped into two complexes for navigational convenience: Northern (Terminals B and C) and Southern (Terminals D, E, and F).

The Northern Terminal Complex includes:

• Terminal B: Serves the majority of domestic flights within Russia. This is one of the newest terminals with a modern design, a large number of automated check-in counters, and boarding gates.
• Terminal C: Specialises in international flights. It is combined with Terminal B into a single space, allowing passengers to conveniently transfer between domestic and international lines without going outside.

The Southern Terminal Complex consists of three interconnected terminals:

• Terminal D: Serves as the base for "Aeroflot" airline and its SkyTeam alliance partners. It handles both domestic and international flights.
• Terminals E and F: Also serve primarily international destinations. Terminal F, historically known as Sheremetyevo-2, has retained features of classic Soviet architecture, while E is more modern. All three terminals are connected by pedestrian galleries.

To move between the Northern (B, C) and Southern (D, E, F) complexes, a free inter-terminal transfer operates — an automated train running underground. The trip takes about 4 minutes, making transit between the furthest points of the airport fast and convenient. Inside the Southern complex, you can move on foot by following the signs.

The airport layout is intuitive. Generally, departure zones are located on the upper floors, and arrival zones and baggage claim are on the lower floors. Navigation is simple thanks to numerous signs in Russian and English. For convenience, it is recommended to download the official airport mobile app, where an interactive map is available.

Check-in and security screening times can vary significantly. On average, you should allow 1.5-2 hours before departure for domestic flights, and at least 3 hours for international ones. During peak hours and days (morning and evening times, holidays), queues can be longer, so it is better to arrive with time to spare.

The history of Sheremetyevo Airport (SVO) in Moscow is a vivid example of how a military airfield transformed into one of the largest and most modern aviation hubs in Russia and Europe. Its journey began in 1953, when the decision was made to build the Central Air Force Airfield near the village of Sheremetyevsky. It was officially opened in 1957, and just two years later, in 1959, it was converted into a civil airport on the initiative of Nikita Khrushchev. On August 11, 1959, the first passenger flight landed here — a Tu-104 from Leningrad.

A significant milestone in development was 1964, when the Sheremetyevo-1 terminal complex was opened, famous for its futuristic building shaped like a distinctive saucer. For many years, this terminal was the main one for domestic airlines. A true international breakthrough happened on the eve of the 1980 Olympics. Specifically to receive foreign guests and athletes, Terminal Sheremetyevo-2 (today — Terminal F) was built in 1980, becoming the airport's calling card and the main air gateway of the USSR.

In the 21st century, Sheremetyevo underwent massive reconstruction and modernisation. From 2007 to 2010, modern Terminals C, D, and E were built, radically changing the airport's appearance and increasing its capacity. One of the key achievements was the connection of the Southern (D, E, F) and Northern (B, C) terminal complexes via an underground automated train in 2018, which significantly simplified transit for passengers.

Among the interesting facts in the airport's history is its name. In 2019, as part of the "Great Names of Russia" project, the airport was named after the great Russian poet Alexander Sergeyevich Pushkin. Today, Sheremetyevo not only continues to break passenger traffic records but also regularly receives international awards for high service quality, confirming its status as a leading world-class aviation hub.

Sheremetyevo Airport (SVO) offers passengers a full range of services to make waiting for a flight as comfortable and productive as possible. Regardless of the purpose of your trip, you will find everything you need here — from diverse restaurants to modern business lounges and hotels.

Numerous cafes and restaurants to suit every taste are located within the terminals: from fast-food chains to establishments with gourmet cuisine. Travellers can pass the time in shops, including extensive Duty Free zones, where a wide assortment of perfumes, cosmetics, fine delicacies, and souvenirs is presented.

For those who value enhanced comfort, numerous business lounges and VIP halls are available. Here you can rest in silence, use shower facilities, have a snack, and work in a calm atmosphere. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and numerous charging stations for gadgets will help you stay connected at all times.

Financial matters can be easily resolved thanks to bank branches, ATMs, and currency exchange points. In case of necessity, passengers can visit 24-hour medical points where qualified assistance will be provided.

For travellers with children, comfortable mother and child rooms and play zones are equipped. The airport also provides a full range of services for passengers with reduced mobility, including special assistance, ramps, and equipped washrooms, ensuring a barrier-free environment.

If you have a long layover or an early flight, you can stay in one of the hotels located directly on the airport territory or connected to the terminals by covered pedestrian galleries. For business travellers, modern conference halls and business centres equipped with everything necessary for meetings and negotiations are available.

At Sheremetyevo Airport (SVO), travellers are greeted with a wide selection of establishments for every taste and budget. Regardless of which terminal you are in, you will easily find a place for a quick snack or a full meal. Dining points are located both in the public area before security control (landside) and in the secure departure zone (airside), where the selection is usually even greater.

For those in a hurry, numerous cafes and fast-food outlets are ideal. Here you can have coffee with fresh pastries, eat a sandwich, or order familiar dishes from international chain menus. Most of these establishments, especially in the departure zone, work 24/7, which is very convenient for passengers on night flights. This is the best option if there is very little time left before boarding.

If you have time to enjoy a meal in a calm atmosphere, pay attention to the restaurants and lounges. Sheremetyevo features establishments offering Russian, European, Pan-Asian, and other world cuisines. This is a great opportunity to try traditional dishes, such as dumplings or borscht, before departure. In the lounges, you can relax with a refreshing beverage while watching the runway. Full-service restaurants are mainly concentrated in the departure zone after passport control.

Passengers with special dietary preferences will also find suitable options. Many restaurants offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free dishes, which are usually marked on the menu. Information regarding Halal options is best clarified directly at the establishments. The price range varies: from affordable prices in food courts and coffee shops to a higher average bill in à la carte restaurants. On average, you should expect prices higher than in the city, which is typical for airports.

So, to summarise. For a quick snack, coffee shops and fast food in any zone of the airport are perfect. For a full lunch or dinner in comfort, head to one of the restaurants in the secure departure zone. It is there that you will find maximum variety and be able to spend time peacefully while waiting for your flight.

To ensure your journey through Sheremetyevo Airport goes as smoothly as possible, take advantage of our tips. When planning a departure from one of the busiest airports in Moscow, allocate sufficient time. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive 2-3 hours before departure, and for international flights — 3-4 hours in advance. This will allow you to complete all formalities without rushing, especially during peak morning and evening hours.

To save time, use online check-in on your airline's website, which usually opens 24 hours before departure. At the airport, you will only need to drop off your luggage at a special counter (Drop-off). When passing through security control, be ready to remove laptops, tablets, and liquids in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag, from your hand luggage.

When choosing a seat on the plane, be guided by your preferences. Window seats (A, F) offer beautiful views during takeoff and landing. Aisle seats (C, D) are convenient if you plan to stand up often. Tall passengers should pay attention to seats at emergency exits — there is more legroom there, but an additional fee is often charged for them.

Be sure to take documents, money, gadgets, and necessary medicines in your hand luggage. Remember the restrictions on carrying liquids: all must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent bag. It is strictly forbidden to carry sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances in the cabin.

If you have a transfer at Sheremetyevo, carefully study your boarding pass. The airport consists of several terminals, between which an automated train runs. Ensure you have enough time for the transfer, re-screening security, and possibly passport control if the status of the flight changes between international and domestic.

When passing through customs in Russia, a system of "green" and "red" channels operates. If you do not have goods subject to mandatory declaration (for example, large sums of cash or cultural valuables), feel free to go through the "green channel". Otherwise, you need to fill out a declaration and go through the "red channel".

To save money, use public transport, such as the "Aeroexpress", to get to or from the airport. Prices for food and drinks in the departure zone are quite high, so you can bring an empty water bottle with you and fill it at drinking fountains after screening. Also, pre-booking parking online may be cheaper.

In case of a flight delay, the first thing to do is contact your airline representative. Depending on the duration of the wait, you are legally entitled to drinks, hot meals, and for long delays — hotel accommodation. Having travel insurance can also help compensate for unforeseen expenses. Stay calm and monitor information on the airport's online displays.