Murmansk Airport

Murmansk Airport is more than just a transport hub; it is a true aerial gateway to the Arctic, where your introduction to the Russian North begins. Located beyond the Arctic Circle, it welcomes travellers eager to witness the Northern Lights, conquer the slopes of the Khibiny Mountains, or journey to the edge of the earth in Teriberka. Despite its compact size, the airport possesses a unique charm: you can already feel the breath of the tundra here and purchase unique Arctic souvenirs. It is from here that the most exciting polar expeditions begin.

Airport Features and Advantages:

Murmansk Airport, named after Emperor Nicholas II, offers guests a cosy atmosphere and easy navigation. While waiting for your flight, you can visit a café serving local delicacies or purchase tasty gifts for your loved ones—such as venison or northern fish, which are sold in specialised shops right inside the terminal.

The Business Lounge deserves special attention, offering a comfortable place to spend time before departure. For the convenience of passengers, regular transport links to the city are organised: buses and fixed-route taxis run frequently, taking tourists to the centre of Murmansk in about an hour. During the winter season, if you are lucky, flashes of the Northern Lights can be observed directly from the airport square.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Murmansk Airport (MMK).

• Official Website: airport-murmansk.ru
• Information Desk Phone: +7 (8152) 281-331
• Address: Murmansk Region, Kola District, Murmashi settlement, Murmansk Airport territory
• Email for General Enquiries: office@airport-murmansk.ru
• Official VK Group: vk.com/airportmurmansk
• Lost & Found Information: In case of lost or damaged luggage, please contact the tracing service at +7 (921) 036-10-03.
• Passenger Support Service: For all operational questions related to your flight, it is recommended to contact the airport information desk or your airline representative directly.

Murmansk Airport (MMK) is located approximately 30 kilometres southwest of the city centre of Murmansk, in the settlement of Murmashi. You can reach it in several ways, each with its own advantages depending on your budget, time, and preferences.

Public Transport. The most budget-friendly way to get to the airport is to take bus No. 106. The estimated ticket price is about 150 rubles. It departs from the bus station, which is located next to the railway station in the centre of Murmansk. Buses run regularly throughout the day with intervals of approximately 20-40 minutes. The journey takes about 60-70 minutes, but travel time may increase during peak hours or poor weather conditions. This is an excellent choice for economical travellers.

Taxi and Transfer. For those who value comfort and speed, a taxi is the optimal option. A trip from the city centre to the airport will take about 40-50 minutes. The cost generally ranges from 1000–1500 rubles depending on the operator, time of day, and demand. Both local taxi services and popular ride-hailing apps operate in Murmansk. This ensures convenience, especially if you are travelling with heavy luggage. It is recommended to book a car in advance, particularly during morning and evening hours.

Car Rental. If you plan to move actively around the Murmansk region and not depend on public transport schedules, renting a car is your choice. You can rent a car both in the city and directly at the airport upon arrival. This gives you the freedom to travel to famous places in Russia such as Teriberka or the Khibiny Mountains.

Parking at the Airport. For travellers arriving by private car, parking zones are provided within the territory of Murmansk Airport. There are options for both short-term parking (pick-up or drop-off) and long-term storage of the vehicle during your absence. Parking services are paid, and rates depend on the duration.

The Murmansk Airport (MMK) is a modern and compact aviation hub. Passenger service is concentrated in two main buildings: the new domestic terminal, opened at the end of 2023, and the historical Terminal A, which is intended for servicing international flights. These two terminals are located in close proximity to each other, making navigation between them very simple.

The main passenger flow currently passes through the new terminal. This is a modern two-storey building designed for maximum convenience. On the ground floor, you will find check-in counters and the arrival area with baggage reclaim belts. After checking in, passengers proceed to the first floor, where the security checkpoint is located, followed by a spacious and bright waiting lounge with boarding gates, cafés, and shops.

Terminal A is an older building that will serve international destinations in the future. It is currently being prepared for reconstruction to meet modern standards. Passengers travelling on international flights (when they fully resume) should check departure terminal information directly before their trip.

The airport layout is intuitive, and navigation is straightforward thanks to clear signage. Since the terminals are just a couple of minutes' walk from each other, no special transport is required for transfer. Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated, which helps avoid confusion. Domestic arrivals take place in the new terminal, where passengers quickly reach the baggage claim area and the exit to the city.

Completing all pre-flight procedures at Murmansk Airport generally does not take much time. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure. Typically, check-in and security checks take about 20-40 minutes, however, queues may form during peak hours (morning and evening flights to major cities in Russia). Always check information about your flight and terminal on the display boards or your ticket so that your journey begins comfortably and without haste.

The history of Murmansk Airport (MMK) is closely linked to the development of the entire Kola Peninsula. The official opening date of the modern airport complex is considered to be 11 February 1976, when the first regular flight was operated on the Murmansk — Moscow route. Located 24 kilometres from the city, near the settlement of Murmashi, it immediately became the region's main air gateway, replacing older, less suitable airfields.

Although the modern complex appeared in the 70s, the aviation history of these parts began much earlier. Even before and during the Great Patriotic War, a military airfield operated here. With the growth of the industrial and strategic importance of the Murmansk region in the post-war years, an urgent need arose for a large civil airport capable of receiving modern passenger aircraft. The construction of the new harbour was a logical step in the development of the transport infrastructure of the Soviet Arctic.

A significant stage in development was receiving the status of an international airport in 1993. This opened up new opportunities for direct flights to Scandinavian countries and other European states. In the 2000s and 2010s, a large-scale reconstruction of the runway was carried out at the airport, allowing it to receive heavier and more modern types of aircraft. The terminal itself was also modernised to meet the growing passenger flow and modern comfort requirements.

One of the notable events in recent history was the naming of the airport after the last Russian Emperor, Nicholas II, in 2019 as part of the "Great Names of Russia" national project. This decision was made based on the results of a public vote. Today, Murmansk Airport is a modern transport hub playing a key role in connecting the region with the rest of Russia and the world. It serves not only tourists coming to see the Northern Lights but also specialists working at industrial enterprises in the Arctic.

Interesting fact: Murmansk Airport is one of the largest airports in the world located beyond the Arctic Circle. Its unique geographical position makes it strategically important for the exploration of the Arctic and the development of the Northern Sea Route. For many travellers, their acquaintance with the beauty of the Russian North begins right here, on the runway, from where flashes of the aurora borealis can sometimes be observed.

Murmansk Airport (MMK) offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. The terminal houses cafés and restaurants where you can have a snack before departure, as well as shops, including souvenir stalls where you can buy gifts with Northern symbols. Here you will find products from local producers as well as travel essentials.

For those who value enhanced comfort, there is a VIP Lounge with individual service, comfortable furniture, and a special menu. The general waiting hall also provides all conditions for a pleasant pastime. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport territory, and numerous power outlets and special charging stations for gadgets ensure you always stay connected.

ATMs of several major banks operate within the terminal building. If necessary, passengers can visit the 24-hour medical point, where first aid will be provided.

The airport cares for passengers with children: a Mother and Child room is equipped for them, where you can feed and change your baby in a quiet environment. All necessary services are also provided for passengers with reduced mobility, including special equipment and staff assistance for escorting from the terminal entrance to boarding the aircraft.

Although there are no hotels directly on the airport territory, several hotel complexes offering transfers are located in close proximity. For business travellers, conference rooms or business zones may be available, allowing you to hold a meeting or work while waiting for a flight.

Murmansk Airport (MMK) offers passengers several convenient options to refresh themselves before their flight. Although the choice of establishments here is not as extensive as in capital airports, finding a place for a full lunch or a quick snack will not be difficult.

The main cafés are located in the general hall on the ground floor, before passing pre-flight security (landside). Here you can sit comfortably and order hot dishes, soups, salads, and fresh pastries. This is an ideal option for a leisurely meal, especially if you have arrived early or are seeing off loved ones. After passing security control, in the departure zone (airside), the choice is usually more modest. Typically, this is a small coffee shop or bar where you can buy sandwiches, desserts, coffee, and other beverages.

Be sure to pay attention to local Arctic cuisine dishes. Even in the airport café, you can find something interesting. Look for dishes made from northern fish in the menu, such as cod or halibut, or try a hearty pie filled with venison or northern berries—cloudberries and lingonberries. This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the flavours of the Kola Peninsula before departure.

Passengers with specific dietary preferences (vegetarians, vegans) should study the menu carefully or check the ingredients with the staff, as specialised offers may be limited. Most establishments operate in accordance with the flight schedule—from early morning until the departure of the last aircraft. The price range is average for airports, slightly higher than in city cafés.

For a quick snack, the coffee shop in the departure zone is perfect. And if you have an hour or more to spare, we recommend choosing one of the cafés in the general hall: here the selection of dishes is wider, and the atmosphere is conducive to a complete rest before your journey.

To ensure your journey through Murmansk Airport (MMK) goes smoothly and without unnecessary stress, use these proven tips. The airport is not very large, which makes it quite easy to navigate, but proper preparation never hurts.

Arrival Time and Check-in. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before a domestic flight departure. This time is sufficient to calmly check in luggage, pass security control, and reach the boarding gate. To save time, check in for your flight online and, if travelling light, proceed immediately to security. Control points usually work quickly, but queues may form during peak hours (morning and evening flights).

Seat Selection and Hand Luggage. If you want to enjoy views of the harsh northern nature during takeoff or landing, choose a window seat. Remember the standard rules for carrying hand luggage: liquids with a volume of no more than 100 ml each must be packed in a transparent bag. Check the dimensions and weight of hand luggage allowed by your airline in advance to avoid extra charges at the airport.

Transfers and Customs. Murmansk Airport is rarely used as a major transit hub. If you have a connecting flight within Russia, you usually do not need to collect your luggage—it will be transferred automatically (check with your airline). Customs control is only passed by passengers on international flights; it is not required for domestic flights.

Savings and Unforeseen Situations. To save money, bring an empty water bottle with you and fill it at a drinking fountain after the security zone. Prices for food and drinks at the airport are traditionally higher. In case of a flight delay, contact your airline representative. Remember that for long waits, you are entitled to drinks, hot meals, and, if necessary, hotel accommodation at the carrier's expense.