Yelizovo

Yelizovo Airport (PKC), named after Vitus Bering, is the main air gateway to Kamchatka, a unique land of volcanoes and geysers. Located 30 km from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, it serves as the starting point for travelers seeking to witness the pristine nature of Russia. It is from here that unforgettable adventures across one of the planet's most amazing regions begin. The airport has held international status since 1995 and can accommodate all types of aircraft thanks to its modern runway.

Yelizovo Airport is constantly being modernized to meet the growing flow of tourists. A key event was the construction of a new modern terminal, which significantly increased capacity and passenger comfort. The terminal complex includes everything necessary for travelers: cafes with views of the apron and volcanoes, shops, a business lounge, and comfortable waiting areas. Despite the relatively modest size of the old building, the airport effectively handles both domestic and regional flights, connecting the Kamchatka Krai with major cities in Russia.

• Official Website: airport-pkc.ru
• Inquiry Service Phone: +7 (41531) 99-342 (24 hours)
• Address: 684010, Russia, Kamchatka Krai, Yelizovo, Zvezdnaya St., 1
• Email: office@airport-pkc.ru
• Social Media: Official airport pages can be found on VKontakte and Telegram.
• Lost and Found: +7 (41531) 99-710
• Passenger Contacts: For general questions, you can contact the 24-hour inquiry service. For security-related issues, the linear police station phone is available: +7 (41531) 99-563.

Yelizovo International Airport (PKC) is the main air gateway to Kamchatka, located approximately 30 kilometers from the city of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky in Russia. There are several ways to get from the city to the airport, each with its own features.

Public Transport

The most budget-friendly way to reach the airport is by using scheduled buses. The main routes connecting Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky and the airport are No. 102 and No. 104. They depart from the bus station on Komsomolskaya Square and proceed to the air terminal. The travel time is approximately 45-60 minutes, but this may increase during peak hours due to traffic. This is an excellent option for light travelers wishing to save money. There is no railway or metro service in the region.

Taxi and Transfer

For those who value comfort and time, a taxi is the optimal choice. A trip from the city center to the airport will take about 30-40 minutes. The cost will be significantly higher than the bus, but this is compensated by speed and convenience, especially if you are traveling with large luggage or family. It is recommended to use official taxi services or book a transfer in advance to avoid inflated prices.

Car Rental and Parking

If you plan to actively travel around Kamchatka on your own, you can rent a car. Rental company counters are located in the airport building, but it is better to book a car in advance, especially during the tourist season. For trips outside the cities, an SUV is often required.

For those arriving at the airport in their own vehicle, there is paid parking on the station square. There are zones for both short-term and long-term parking, which is convenient if you are leaving your car for the duration of your trip.

Recommendations

The choice of transport depends on your budget, amount of luggage, and travel plans. The bus is the most economical option, the taxi is the fastest and most convenient, and a rented car gives complete freedom of movement. In any case, plan your trip with extra time, taking possible traffic jams into account.

Yelizovo Airport (PKC) in Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky opened one new, modern passenger terminal in 2024, which now handles all flights. The old terminal buildings are no longer used for passenger transport. This single complex is designed for both domestic and international routes, which significantly simplifies navigation for travelers—you will not have to transfer or walk between different buildings.

The terminal layout is intuitive and meets modern standards. It is a multi-level building with unique architecture resembling a volcano. The check-in area for flights is located on the ground floor, right by the main entrance. After receiving a boarding pass, passengers proceed to the second floor, where pre-flight security and passport control zones are located, as well as the main departure lounge with boarding gates. The Arrivals Hall and baggage claim area are on the ground floor, with separate exits to the city.

Since all operations are concentrated in one building, transfers between terminals are not required. Navigation inside the complex is very simple thanks to clear signs in Russian and English. Distances between key points—from the entrance to check-in counters and from there to the security zone—are minimal and can be covered in a few minutes.

It is recommended to allow standard time for completing all formalities. Arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight and 2.5-3 hours before an international one. Although the new terminal is designed for quick service, queues are possible during the peak tourist season (summer and winter holidays), so it is better to have a time buffer. Orienting yourself in Yelizovo Airport is easy, and if questions arise, you can always contact the information desk.

The history of Yelizovo Airport is a chronicle of the development of one of Russia's most remote and amazing regions. It began during World War II when a military airfield was built here. However, the civil chapter of its history opened on May 1, 1948. On this day, the first regular passenger flight on the Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky — Khabarovsk route took place on an Li-2 aircraft, forever linking the peninsula with the "mainland."

A key stage of development was the construction of a concrete runway in 1957-1958. This allowed the airport to receive heavier and more modern aircraft, such as the Il-12 and Il-14, and later the first turbojet liners, the Tu-104. In the 1970s, the flagships of Soviet aviation—long-haul Il-62s—began flying to Yelizovo, operating direct flights to Moscow. The airport became not just a transport hub, but a true gateway to Kamchatka, ensuring connection for residents, scientists, and, of course, tourists.

In 1995, the airport was granted international status, opening new perspectives for the development of tourism and economic ties. The modern history of Yelizovo is marked by large-scale reconstruction. Its main event was the construction of a modern passenger terminal, the unique design of which is inspired by the shape of a volcano—the calling card of Kamchatka. This modernization aims to take passenger service to a completely new level of comfort and safety.

Among the interesting facts in the airport's history is its status as a joint-base airfield, where civil aviation coexists with military aviation. For decades, Yelizovo has been and remains a strategically important facility that plays a key role not only in passenger transport but also in ensuring the vitality of the entire peninsula, including scientific expeditions and cargo delivery.

Yelizovo Airport (PKC) offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. In the terminal, you will find several cafes and lounges where you can have a snack or coffee before departure. Particular attention should be paid to the shops: in addition to standard goods, here you can purchase famous Kamchatka delicacies—caviar, fish, crabs—as well as various souvenirs reflecting the unique nature and culture of the region.

For the convenience of passengers, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and charging stations for mobile devices are installed in the waiting halls, allowing you to stay connected. In addition to standard halls with sufficient seating, a VIP Lounge operates for those who prefer enhanced comfort. It offers a quieter atmosphere, snacks, and beverages. It is worth noting that there are no specialized conference halls or business centers in the airport, but the VIP Lounge can provide a secluded space for work.

ATMs of several major banks are located in the airport building. Passengers with children can use the specially equipped mother and child room, which has everything necessary for baby care. In case of unforeseen situations, a medical point operates 24/7 in the terminal, ready to provide first aid.

Yelizovo Airport is fully equipped to serve passengers with reduced mobility. Assistance is provided in moving through the terminal, as well as during boarding and disembarking from the aircraft; however, it is recommended to notify the airline of your needs in advance. There are no hotels directly on the airport territory, but several hotels and guest houses are located in the city of Yelizovo, just a few minutes' drive from the terminal.

At Yelizovo Airport (PKC), passengers can find several dining options suitable for both a quick snack and a full meal. The main establishments are concentrated in the modern passenger terminal and offer comfortable conditions for waiting for a flight, both in the public zone and after passing through security.

In the public zone (before security), you can find a cafe with a wider menu, which is convenient for those seeing someone off or arriving at the airport early. For example, the "Polet" (Flight) cafe operates here, where you can order full hot meals, soups, and salads. This is a good place for a leisurely lunch. In the secure zone, after passing control, the choice is focused on coffee shops and lounges, such as the chain coffee shop "Shokoladnitsa", ideal for a cup of coffee with a dessert or sandwich before departure.

The main gastronomic feature of the airport is the opportunity to enjoy Kamchatka delicacies one last time. Be sure to look for dishes made from wild salmon (sockeye, coho) in the menus of local cafes, as well as the famous sandwiches or blini with red caviar. This is not just a snack, but a true gastronomic experience that will be an excellent conclusion to your journey. Note for Muslim travelers: seafood options are widely available and are generally permissible for Halal diets.

Prices at the airport are traditionally higher than in the city. Expect approximately the following rates: a cup of coffee from 300 rubles, a sandwich or pastry from 350 rubles, a hot dish from 700 rubles. The cost of Kamchatka delicacies, such as a caviar sandwich, may start from 1000–1200 rubles.

Most establishments operate according to the flight schedule, opening before the first flights and closing after the last ones. Some points in the departure zone may operate around the clock. Regarding dietary options, vegetarians will be able to find vegetable salads or side dishes, but the selection is limited. Specialized vegan or gluten-free dishes are extremely rare, so with strict dietary restrictions, it is better to bring snacks with you.

A journey through Kamchatka's main airport, Yelizovo, will be a pleasant start or end to your adventure if you take a few features into account. To avoid rushing, especially during the tourist season, arrive at the airport in advance: 2.5–3 hours before departure. This time is enough to calmly go through all procedures. To save time, use online check-in if your airline provides such a service. And the main secret for those flying out of Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky is related to choosing a seat on the plane: try to take a window seat on the right side (usually row F). In clear weather, you will have an unforgettable farewell view of the Avachinsky volcano and other peaks.

When packing luggage, pay special attention to the gastronomic souvenirs for which Kamchatka is famous. Remember that most airlines prohibit carrying red caviar in hand luggage. Check your carrier's rules in advance and ensure hermetic packaging for checking it into luggage. Otherwise, standard restrictions apply: liquids in containers up to 100 ml (total volume up to 1 liter) and a ban on sharp objects. Customs and pre-flight security on domestic flights within Russia are standard, but be prepared for potentially more thorough checks due to the region's special status.

If you are flying through Yelizovo in transit, the transfer will be quite convenient, as the airport has a single terminal. However, the key point is your luggage. Be sure to check with your airline whether you need to collect and re-register your suitcases. As a rule, this is required when transferring from an international flight to a domestic one (and vice versa) or when flying with different airlines. Do not forget to allow extra time for this procedure to avoid rushing.

The weather in Kamchatka is extremely unpredictable, so flight delays are not uncommon. Always check the status of your departure on the airport's online board or on the airline's website. In case of a wait, keep a portable charger and entertainment handy. Remember that during a long delay, the airline is obliged to provide you with beverages, meals, and if necessary, a hotel. To save money, bring an empty water bottle with you (it can be filled after security) and a light snack, as prices in airport cafes can be quite high.