Nikolayevsk-on-Amur Airport

Nikolayevsk-on-Amur Airport is not merely a transport hub, but the true "aerial gateway" of the Lower Amur, connecting this remote northern corner with the "mainland". The air harbour plays a vital role for the region, providing connections where the taiga and the broad waters of the Amur make other forms of transport lengthy or inaccessible. For travellers, arriving here is the first introduction to the harsh yet mesmerising nature of the Far East, where civilisation borders on the wild elements.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

One of the key features of the airport is its compactness and convenience. Thanks to the small size of the terminal, all pre-flight procedures are completed as quickly as possible, without exhausting queues or long waits, which is especially valuable after long flights. The airport is located just a few kilometres from the city, allowing you to reach the centre in literally 10–15 minutes by taxi or bus.

Following a large-scale reconstruction of the runway, the airport gained the capacity to receive modern aircraft, including the Sukhoi Superjet 100, which has significantly improved passenger comfort and flight regularity. Updated lighting equipment allows the air harbour to operate even in the complex meteorological conditions characteristic of the changeable climate of the Khabarovsk Krai.

The airport performs a crucial social function, serving as a base for air ambulance services and cargo delivery to hard-to-reach settlements in the district. For tourists, it is the starting point for expeditions along the Amur and for exploring the historical heritage of one of the oldest cities in the Far East.

Below is the essential contact information for Nikolayevsk-on-Amur Airport (NLI) to help you plan your journey.

• Official Website: The airport is part of the "Airports of the Far East" network. All official information can be found on the page: airports-dv.ru.
• Information Desk Phone: +7 (42135) 2-23-45
• Airport Address: 682462, Russia, Khabarovsk Krai, Nikolayevsk-on-Amur, Zhukovskogo St., 42
• Email: priemnaya.nla@airports-dv.ru (Reception)
• Lost Luggage Information: If you have lost luggage or personal items in the aircraft cabin, you should contact the representative of the airline you flew with directly. For items left in the terminal building, you can call the information desk.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For enquiries and support, passengers can contact the airport information desk by phone: +7 (42135) 2-23-45.

Please note that contact details may be updated periodically. We recommend always checking the latest information on the airport's official website before your flight.

Nikolayevsk-on-Amur Airport is located in close proximity to the city, so getting there is effortless. The journey from the centre of Nikolayevsk-on-Amur to the terminal will take very little time, and you can choose the method that best suits your budget and preferences. It is one of the key air hubs of the region, serving flights across Russia.

Taxi or Transfer is the most convenient and fastest way to reach the airport. A trip from any point in the city will take no more than 10-15 minutes. You can order a car via local taxi services by phone. This is an ideal option if you are travelling with bulky luggage or value comfort. The cost of the trip will be low due to the short distance, but still more expensive than public transport.

Public Transport is the most budget-friendly option. City buses run to the airport. Although this is the most economical method, it is worth checking the route number and current schedule in advance, especially if your flight is scheduled for early morning or late evening. This option is well-suited for those travelling light.

If you plan to move actively around the region, you might consider car rental. Rental points in the city are likely represented by local companies, so it is better to book a car in advance. For those arriving at the airport in their own or a rented vehicle, parking is provided. It allows you to leave your car for both short and long periods. It is recommended to check parking conditions and rates on-site.

The Nikolayevsk-on-Amur Airport (NLI) is a small regional air hub with a very simple and clear structure. It consists of one passenger terminal, which serves both departing and arriving flights. Being an important transport facility for the north of the Khabarovsk Krai in Russia, the airport is oriented towards maximum functionality and speed of service.

The terminal building is a single compact space where all key zones are within walking distance. Here, check-in counters, the pre-flight security screening area, a small waiting hall, and the baggage claim point are combined. The airport layout is extremely simple, so navigation will not cause difficulties even for those visiting for the first time. Separate departure and arrival zones are located in the same building, eliminating the need to move between structures.

Due to the low passenger flow, passing through check-in and security usually takes minimal time. Long queues are a rarity here. Nevertheless, the standard recommendation is to arrive at the airport approximately 1.5-2 hours before departure to calmly drop off luggage and go through all necessary procedures without rushing.

You will not have to worry about finding the right gate or transferring between terminals. All navigation is reduced to moving within a single hall. This makes Nikolayevsk-on-Amur Airport very convenient for passengers who value simplicity and an absence of hassle.

The history of Nikolayevsk-on-Amur Airport is inextricably linked with the development of the Russian Far East Russia and the advancement of aviation in this harsh region. Since its foundation, it has become a vital transport hub ensuring the connection of the remote city with the rest of the country. For many residents today, air travel remains the only way to reach regional centres quickly and year-round.

The first flights to Nikolayevsk-on-Amur began as early as the 1930s, and the official birth date of the aviation enterprise is considered to be 1934. In those times, light aircraft such as the Po-2 were used, flying to Khabarovsk and serving the needs of geologists, fishermen, and gold miners. The airport played a key role in the industrial development of the Lower Amur region, delivering mail, cargo, and specialists to the most inaccessible corners.

A significant stage in the airport's development was the construction of a paved runway in 1963. This allowed for the reception of more modern and larger aircraft, such as the An-24 and Yak-40, which became the backbone of the regional aviation fleet for many years. During the Soviet period, the airport was a major hub connecting dozens of villages throughout the district, and passenger traffic reached peak levels.

In the post-Soviet period, like many regional airports, it faced difficulties but did not lose its strategic importance. Understanding the importance of the facility for the region, a large-scale reconstruction was carried out in the 2010s as part of the federal transport system development programme. The runway was completely renewed, and modern lighting and navigation equipment were installed, enhancing flight safety and ensuring airport operations in difficult weather conditions.

Today, Nikolayevsk-on-Amur Airport is a modern aviation complex that continues to fulfil its main mission: being a reliable bridge connecting this remote but beautiful corner of the Far East with the mainland. Its history is not just a chronicle of construction and modernisation, but a record of the region's development and the destinies of thousands of people for whom the sky became the only road home.

Nikolayevsk-on-Amur Airport (NLI) is a small regional air hub that provides passengers with all basic services necessary for a comfortable wait before departure. Inside the terminal building, there is a snack bar where you can order hot meals, snacks, and beverages. There is also a small kiosk selling newspapers, magazines, and souvenirs.

A general waiting hall is equipped for passengers. The availability and conditions for access to the VIP lounge (comfort hall) should be checked at the information desk or with airline representatives. Free Wi-Fi is available within the terminal, and there are power outlets in the waiting hall for charging electronic devices.

Personnel at the medical post are on duty at the airport around the clock, ready to provide first aid. For travellers with small children, a mother and child room is equipped, where you can feed and change your baby in a quiet environment. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with assistance in moving around the terminal and boarding the flight; for this, it is necessary to notify your airline in advance.

Financial services are represented by an ATM located in the terminal building. Currency exchange points are absent. There are no hotels directly at the airport, however, travellers can easily reach hotels in the city itself. Specialised business centres or conference rooms are not provided at the airport.

Nikolayevsk-on-Amur Airport (NLI) is a small regional air hub, and dining options here are quite modest, which is typical for airports of this size. Passengers are advised to plan their lunch or snack in advance, especially if they have specific dietary requirements.

In the airport's single terminal, a small buffet or café usually operates. One should not expect a variety of restaurants or chain establishments. This outlet is generally located in the public waiting area, before the security checkpoint (landside), allowing both departing passengers and those seeing them off to have a snack.

The assortment mainly includes:

• For a quick snack: tea, coffee, juices, water, chocolate, biscuits, and other packaged products. Fresh pastries—buns and pies—are often on sale.
• For a more substantial meal: ready-made open sandwiches and sandwiches. Simple hot dishes, such as sausages, the soup of the day, or porridge, may sometimes be offered.

Specialised nutrition, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes, is most likely not represented here. If you observe strict dietary limitations, it is strongly recommended to bring food with you. Regarding local cuisine, it is unlikely you will encounter anything special on the menu (for example, dishes made from Far Eastern fish), as the café is oriented towards basic and quick-to-prepare snacks.

The opening hours of the café depend directly on the flight schedule—it opens a few hours before departure and closes after the aircraft has left. Prices, as in most airports, may be somewhat higher than in city establishments. For a full lunch or dinner, it is better to choose one of the cafés in the city of Nikolayevsk-on-Amur before travelling to the airport.

To ensure your journey from the airport of Nikolayevsk-on-Amur goes as smoothly as possible, make use of our tips. This is a small regional airport, but proper preparation will help avoid unnecessary worry and make the start of your trip comfortable.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For domestic flights within Russia, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1.5-2 hours before departure. This time is usually sufficient to go through all pre-flight formalities without rushing. If possible, use online check-in on your airline's website—this will save time. Check-in counters usually close 40 minutes before the flight's departure.

Choosing a Seat on the Plane. If you have the opportunity to select a seat, consider your preferences. Window seats will offer you stunning views of the Amur River and the boundless taiga during take-off and landing. Aisle seats are convenient if you plan to get up during the flight without disturbing your neighbours.

Hand Luggage. Carefully study your airline's hand luggage rules, as weight and dimension allowances may vary. Standard restrictions prohibit carrying liquids in containers larger than 100 ml and sharp objects. Always keep all valuables, documents, medication, and portable chargers in your hand luggage.

Passengers with Connections and Customs Control. Nikolayevsk-on-Amur Airport serves mainly domestic flights, so customs control is not provided here—only standard security screening. If you are planning a transfer at a different, larger airport (for example, in Khabarovsk), allow at least 2-3 hours for it, to calmly transfer from one terminal to another and go through security control again if required.

Saving Time and Money. To save money, buy tickets in advance and keep an eye on airline promotions. Pack your luggage according to the allowances to avoid extra charges for excess weight. The choice of establishments in the airport building may be limited, so you can take an empty water bottle with you (to fill it after screening) and a light snack.

In Case of Flight Delay. In the event of a flight delay, first contact the airline representative for information on the reasons and the estimated departure time. According to federal aviation regulations, if a delay exceeds two hours, you should be provided with drinks, and for longer waits—hot meals and, if necessary, hotel accommodation. Stay calm and keep the airline's contact details and an interesting book or film on your smartphone at hand.