Novokuznetsk Airport

The Novokuznetsk International Airport named after B.V. Volynov (Spichenkovo) serves as the main air gateway to the southern part of Kuzbass in Russia. It is not merely a transport hub, but a key destination for thousands of tourists heading to the famous Sheregesh ski resort, as it is the closest airport to the slopes. Recent modernization and the construction of a new terminal have transformed it into a modern and comfortable hub that plays a vital role in the region's development. The airport is continuously increasing passenger traffic and expanding its route network, connecting Siberia with the country's major cities.

Novokuznetsk Airport stands out not only for its strategic location. For the convenience of skiers, a unique remote baggage terminal operates at the Sheregesh resort, allowing guests to check in their luggage in advance and travel light. Inside the terminal building, passengers have access to all necessary services: comfortable waiting lounges, including a business lounge, a mother and child room, cafes, shops, and a hotel. Thanks to constant development and attention to passenger needs, Spichenkovo Airport has become an important and convenient starting point for travels across southern Siberia.

• Official Website: aerokuz.ru
• Information Desk Phone: +7 (3843) 99-34-44
• Address: 654055, Russia, Kemerovo Region — Kuzbass, Novokuznetsky District, Airport
• Email (Office): office@aerokuz.ru
• Social Media: VKontakte, Telegram
• Lost & Found: +7 (3843) 99-34-73 (Unclaimed Luggage Room)
• Passenger Support Service: For assistance and inquiries, please contact the airport's unified information desk.

Novokuznetsk Airport (Spichenkovo) is located approximately 25 kilometres west of the city centre, and there are several ways to reach it. The best option depends on your budget, time constraints, and comfort preferences.

Public Transport is the most budget-friendly way to get to the airport. Bus route No. 160 departs regularly from the Novokuznetsk bus station. The journey takes about 40-60 minutes, depending on traffic and the number of stops. This is a reliable and inexpensive option, but it is advisable to check the schedule in advance, especially if you have an early departure or late arrival. The fare is minimal compared to other modes of transport.

Taxi or Transfer is the most convenient and fastest method. A trip from the city centre to the airport will take approximately 30-40 minutes. You can use popular taxi aggregator apps operating in the city or book a car from a local taxi company. The cost will be significantly higher than the bus, but the comfort and speed justify the expense. For added peace of mind, especially when travelling with large luggage or family, you can book a private transfer in advance.

If you prefer independence in your movements, car rental is a good solution. Several rental agencies operate in Novokuznetsk, where you can hire a car for the required period. This is particularly convenient if you plan to visit not only the airport but also travel around the surrounding areas. The airport territory features a parking lot where you can leave a personal or rented vehicle. There are both short-term and long-term parking zones. Parking services are paid, and rates depend on the duration of the stay.

Recommendations: Always allow extra time for the journey, especially during peak hours or poor weather conditions. If you choose public transport, be sure to check the current schedule before your trip. For those who value comfort and predictability, a pre-booked transfer is the best choice.

Novokuznetsk Airport (Spichenkovo) consists of two terminals, the structure of which was updated with the opening of a new modern terminal complex in 2023. This is an important change that travellers planning a trip through the air gateway of Kuzbass should be aware of.

Terminal A (New) is the main terminal serving all domestic flights. It is a modern two-storey building designed for passenger comfort. The ground floor houses the arrivals area with baggage claim belts, check-in counters, baggage drop-off, and a general waiting hall with exits to the parking lot and public transport stops. The first floor contains the departure zone: here passengers undergo pre-flight security checks, after which they enter the secure area (airside) featuring waiting lounges, cafes, shops, and boarding gates equipped with jet bridges.

Terminal B (Old), following the opening of the new complex, is designated for servicing international flights (primarily charters). It is located in close proximity to the new terminal, and the walk between them takes just a few minutes. Its infrastructure is simpler compared to the new terminal.

Navigation in the new Terminal A is intuitive thanks to clear signage and a thoughtful layout. The time required for procedures at Novokuznetsk Airport is generally short. It is recommended to arrive 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight departure. This time is usually sufficient for calm check-in, baggage drop, and security screening without rushing. During peak hours or high flight volume, it is better to allow an additional 30 minutes.

The history of Novokuznetsk Airport began long before the appearance of the modern terminal. The first airfield in the city was founded in 1952 and was located in the Abagur-Lesnoy area. It mainly serviced small An-2 aircraft, which performed regional flights and air ambulance missions. However, with the growth of the industrial significance of Novokuznetsk and the entire Kuzbass region, the need for a larger and more modern air harbour arose.

Construction of the new airport, known as "Spichenkovo", began in the mid-1960s. The official opening took place in 1968, and by 1970, the airport welcomed its first jet passenger aircraft, the Tu-134. This event became a key moment in the development of the region's air connectivity. In the 1980s, the runway was lengthened and reinforced, allowing for the reception of larger liners, such as the Tu-154, and significantly expanding the flight geography.

The recent history of the airport has been marked by large-scale modernization. In 2019, the airport was named after the twice Hero of the Soviet Union, pilot-cosmonaut Boris Valentinovich Volynov, a native of Kuzbass. The most significant event of recent years was the construction and opening of a new modern passenger terminal in February 2023. Its construction coincided with the hosting of the 2nd Winter International Sports Games "Children of Asia". Today, the airport represents a modern complex capable of serving passengers at a high level and accommodating various types of aircraft.

Novokuznetsk Airport (Spichenkovo) offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Inside the terminal building, there are cafes where you can have a snack before departure, as well as shops selling souvenirs, press, and travel essentials. For passenger convenience, both general waiting halls and a VIP lounge with a higher level of comfort, offering a quieter atmosphere and additional services, are available.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and special stands and sockets for charging mobile devices are installed in the waiting halls. Financial transactions can be made using ATMs located in the terminal building. A medical point operates around the clock for urgent assistance.

For passengers travelling with small children, there is a mother and child room equipped with everything necessary for baby care. Passengers with reduced mobility can count on special assistance and accompaniment from airport staff; for their convenience, the terminal is equipped with ramps and elevators. If you require a long rest, a hotel is located right on the station square. For business travellers, conference room or business centre services may be available as part of the VIP lounge service.

Novokuznetsk Airport (Spichenkovo) offers passengers several convenient options for a snack or a full meal, mostly concentrated in the new modern terminal. Although the selection of establishments is not vast, it fully meets the needs of travellers awaiting their flight.

The main cafes are located in the public zone (landside), before passport control and security screening. Here you can enjoy a leisurely lunch with those seeing you off. On the ground floor is the "Khoroshee Mesto" (Good Place) café, offering dishes of Russian and European cuisine. This is an excellent option for a full lunch or dinner. On the first floor, there is the popular chain coffee shop "Shokoladnitsa", where you can have quality coffee, a dessert, a sandwich, or order a hot meal.

After passing security control, in the secure departure zone (airside), a bar is open for passengers. There, you can purchase beverages, light snacks, and sandwiches to refresh yourself right before boarding. For those in a hurry, vending machines with drinks, chocolate, and snacks are installed in various parts of the terminal.

Finding specific Siberian cuisine dishes at the airport might be difficult, but the café menus feature classic Russian dishes. Passengers with specific dietary requirements (such as Halal, vegetarian, or vegan) should be prepared for limited options. It is best to check the ingredients with the staff on-site. Typically, vegetable salads can be found in chain coffee shops, or you can order coffee with plant-based milk.

Prices in the airport establishments can be described as average for air terminals. Most cafes and beverage counters synchronize their operating hours with the flight schedule, opening early in the morning and closing after the departure of the last flight. Thus, for a full meal before check-in, it is better to choose one of the cafes in the public zone, and for a quick snack before departure, use the bar in the sterile area or the vending machines.

To make your journey through Novokuznetsk Airport as comfortable as possible, use these simple but useful tips. They will help save time, stress, and even money.

Arrival Time and Check-in. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight. This time will be sufficient for calm check-in, baggage drop, and security screening. To speed up the process, use online check-in on your airline's website — this way you can choose a seat and receive your boarding pass in advance.

Hand Luggage and Security. Standard security rules apply here. Liquids (shampoos, gels, creams) can be carried in containers of no more than 100 ml, packed in a single transparent bag. Laptops, tablets, and other large electronics will need to be removed from your bag during screening. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are strictly prohibited in hand luggage.

Seat Selection and Transfers. If the airline allows you to choose a seat during check-in, remember: window seats are for beautiful views, and aisle seats are for freedom of movement. Novokuznetsk Airport is rarely used as a transit hub, but if you have a connecting flight, check with the carrier in advance whether your luggage will be transferred automatically or if you need to collect and re-check it.

Customs Control. This procedure is relevant only for passengers on rare international charter flights. If you are travelling within Russia, there is no need to pass through customs. For trips abroad, standard rules apply for declaring currency and goods exceeding duty-free limits.

Saving Time and Money. To save money, book a taxi to the airport via online apps or check the public transport schedule in advance. Prices for food and beverages in the departure zone can be high, so you can bring an empty water bottle (which can be filled after security) and non-perishable snacks.

If the Flight is Delayed. In case of a flight delay, remain calm and ask for information from your airline representative at the check-in counter. Depending on the duration of the wait, you are entitled to drinks, hot meals, and, in case of a long delay, accommodation in a hotel at the carrier's expense. While waiting for departure, you can settle in the waiting lounge or visit one of the airport cafes.