Olenyok

Olenyok Airport is not merely a runway in the middle of the endless Yakut tundra, but a true "lifeline" for one of the northernmost settlements in Russia. Located above the Arctic Circle, it serves as a vital transport hub connecting this remote region with the rest of the world. For the traveller, arriving here is the first step into the amazing world of the Far North, where permafrost and the unique culture of indigenous peoples prevail.

The main feature of the airport is its operation in extreme climatic conditions. In winter, temperatures here can drop below -50°C, which requires the highest level of professionalism from the staff and special preparation of aircraft. The airport mainly accepts small aviation aircraft, such as the An-24 and An-26, which are ideally suited for local routes.

Despite its modest size, the airport plays a key role not only in passenger transport but also in cargo shipments, ensuring the delivery of food, medicine, and essential goods. Recent reconstruction has allowed for the renovation of the runway and infrastructure, enhancing safety and comfort for passengers. For tourists, this is the starting point for discovering the lifestyle of the Evenki reindeer herders and the harsh yet captivating beauty of Arctic nature.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Olenyok Airport (ONK). We recommend verifying details immediately before your trip, as data may change.

• Official website: Olenyok Airport has a page on the website of the management company FKP "Aeroports of the North": aerosever.ru/olenek.
• Inquiry service phone: You can call the airport information desk at: +7 (41169) 2-11-71.
• Airport address: 678480, Republic of Sakha (Yakutia), Oleneksky Evenki National District, Olenyok village, Aviatorov Street, 18.
• Email: For written enquiries, you can use the e-mail: olenek@aerosever.ru.
• Social media: Olenyok Airport does not have specialised pages. News can be tracked on the general resources of FKP "Aeroports of the North".
• Lost luggage information: For questions regarding the search for lost or damaged luggage, you should primarily contact your airline's representative office. Additional information can be obtained at the airport information desk.
• Passenger support contacts: For consultations and support, you can contact the airport information desk by phone at +7 (41169) 2-11-71.

Olenyok Airport is located in the immediate vicinity of the village of the same name, so getting to it is not difficult. Due to the compact size of the settlement of Olenyok and short distances, the trip to the terminal will take very little time. The transport infrastructure here has its own characteristics typical of remote northern regions of Russia.

Taxi or private transfer is the most common and convenient way to reach the airport. Local taxi services and private drivers operate in the village. A trip from the central part of Olenyok to the air terminal will take no more than 5–10 minutes. The cost of the service is usually low due to the short distance, but it is recommended to agree on the price in advance. In winter or during bad weather, it is better to book a car ahead of time.

Public transport in the conventional sense (such as special express buses) does not run to the airport. The distance from residential areas to the airport is so short that in summer it can easily be covered on foot in 15-25 minutes. However, one should consider the harsh weather conditions in winter, when walking may be uncomfortable and even unsafe.

As for car rental, international and major Russian rental companies are not represented in Olenyok. If you need a vehicle, it is best to arrange a rental with local residents privately. There is a small unguarded parking lot near the airport building where personal vehicles can be left, usually free of charge.

The Olenyok Airport (ONK) is a small regional aviation hub, the structure of which is maximally simple and functional. There is only one passenger terminal here — a small building that serves both departing and arriving passengers. Thanks to its compact size, the airport is very convenient for navigation, and you won't have to worry about long walks or searching for the right gate.

The airport layout is extremely clear. In fact, all zones are located in one common space. Immediately upon entry, you find yourself in the waiting hall where the check-in counters are located. Departure and arrival zones are not separated into different floors or wings of the building — they are simply different parts of the same hall, making movement intuitively understandable. There are no complex diagrams or transitions between terminals, as there is only one.

A feature of the terminal is its minimalism and orientation towards quick service for regional flight passengers. Inside, you will find only the essentials: check-in counters, a security screening area, and a waiting lounge. One should not expect a large number of shops or restaurants, as seen in major international hubs. The main advantage of such an arrangement is the speed of completing all formalities.

Flight check-in and pre-flight screening procedures at Olenyok Airport usually take no more than 20–30 minutes. There are practically no queues here. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1.5 hours before departure to check in luggage and pass control without rushing. Orienting oneself in the terminal is very easy: all signs are visible, and staff are always ready to assist.

The history of Olenyok Airport (ONK) is inextricably linked with the development of the harsh northern territories of Russia. The first aircraft, mainly seaplanes, began landing on the Olenyok River as early as the 1930s, but the creation of a permanent airfield became an urgent necessity for the region's development. A key stage in the history of the aviation enterprise is considered to be 1974, when a dirt runway was built. This allowed for the establishment of regular air service and the reception of larger aircraft.

For decades, the airport served as a vital transport hub. It ensured the so-called "Northern Delivery" — the transport of food, medicine, mail, and other necessary goods to one of the most remote settlements in Yakutia. The main workhorses here for many years were the An-24 and An-26 aircraft, capable of flying in extreme climatic conditions. The airport also played a significant role in supporting geological exploration expeditions conducted in this mineral-rich region.

The airport received a new impetus for development in the 21st century. As part of a federal programme for the modernisation of regional airports, large-scale reconstruction was carried out here. The works, which began in 2021, included updating the runway and the apron. The most notable achievement was the opening in 2023 of a new, modern passenger terminal, which replaced the old wooden building. This event significantly increased comfort for passengers and the quality of service.

Among interesting facts, it can be noted that Olenyok Airport is one of the northernmost in Yakutia, operating in conditions of extremely low temperatures, sometimes dropping below -50 °C. Today, as many years ago, it remains the only year-round thread connecting this remote land with the mainland, acting as a true lifeline for the local population.

Olenyok Airport is a small regional aviation hub serving local flights. The infrastructure here is basic but provides passengers with everything necessary for waiting for their flight in the conditions of the Far North.

A small buffet operates within the terminal building, where you can have a snack and drink hot beverages. The selection of dishes and goods is limited, so one should not count on a full-service restaurant or shopping. Typically, essential items and locally produced souvenirs are on sale. The main area for passengers is the general waiting hall. There are no specialised VIP lounges.

Facilities for passengers with special needs are standard. The airport has a mother and child room. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with assistance during boarding and disembarking, however, the airline must be notified of this in advance. Services such as banks, currency exchange points, as well as conference rooms and business centres are not provided at the airport. Stable public Wi-Fi is usually absent, and the number of power outlets for charging devices is limited, so it is recommended to carry a portable power bank.

In case of necessity, a medical point functions in the terminal building where first aid can be provided. There are no hotels directly on the airport territory, but accommodation options can be found in the village of Olenyok itself, which is located in the immediate vicinity.

Olenyok Airport (ONK) is a small regional aviation hub, so the choice of catering establishments here is very limited. Travellers should take into account in advance that finding a variety of cafes and restaurants, as in major airports, will not be possible here.

Typically, one small buffet operates in the terminal building. It is located in the general hall, accessible to all passengers before passing security control. Here you can purchase basic drinks, such as tea, coffee, juices, and water, as well as simple snacks for a quick bite: usually pastries, sandwiches, chocolate, and crisps. This is the only option for food within the airport territory.

It is unlikely you will find a full hot meal or local cuisine dishes at the airport. Also, options for passengers with special dietary needs, for example, vegetarian, gluten-free, or halal dishes, are not provided here. The buffet's opening hours depend directly on the flight schedule — it opens shortly before departure and closes soon after the aircraft takes off.

Given these features, we recommend that passengers eat a substantial meal before leaving for the airport or bring necessary snacks with them. This is especially important for travellers with children or those adhering to a special diet.

Travelling through the airport in Olenyok has its own specifics related to its location in the northern region of Russia. To ensure your trip goes smoothly, please use our tips. We recommend arriving at the airport approximately 1.5–2 hours before departure. This time is usually sufficient to complete all procedures in the small terminal without unnecessary rushing.

Check-in and security screening here usually take less time than in major aviation hubs. Nevertheless, it is worth checking in advance if online check-in is available with your airline — this will help save time. Hand luggage rules are standard: liquids in containers no larger than 100 ml and no prohibited items. Considering the region's climate, we advise you to pack warm clothes in your hand luggage, which may be needed immediately upon arrival.

When choosing a seat on the plane, prefer window seats to enjoy the views of the endless tundra. Since the airport serves domestic flights, customs control is not conducted here. If you have a connecting flight planned, be sure to check with the air carrier whether you will need to collect your luggage and check in again. In most cases, transit zones are not provided in regional airports.

Flight delays are not uncommon for northern airports, especially in winter due to difficult meteorological conditions. In this case, charge your gadgets, take a book with you, or download films. The assortment in the airport cafe and shops may be limited, so it is better to have a light snack with you. In case of a long delay, contact the airline representative for information on further actions and your rights.