Preobrazheniye Airport

Preobrazheniye Airport (IATA: RZH) is a small but strategically important air harbour on the coast of the Sea of Japan in Primorsky Krai. Located in the settlement of the same name, this airport has become a symbol of the revival of regional aviation, resuming regular connections with the regional capital after a long hiatus. For travellers, it is not just an airport, but a fast and convenient way to reach one of the picturesque and remote corners of Russia, bypassing a multi-hour journey on difficult roads.

The main advantage of the airport is its role in ensuring transport accessibility. Flights to Vladivostok are operated several times a week on DHC-6 aircraft, and the flight takes only about 50-60 minutes. This makes Preobrazheniye Airport indispensable for locals and tourists wishing to explore the natural beauty of the Lazovsky District. After reconstruction in 2016, a new terminal building appeared here and the infrastructure was updated, making waiting for a flight more comfortable. Despite its modest size and operation only during daylight hours, the airport effectively copes with its task, serving as the air gateway to this picturesque coastal region.

Since Preobrazheniye Airport is a small regional airport, many communication channels common to major aviation hubs, such as separate websites or call centres, may be absent. The most reliable source of information is the airline operating the flights.

• Official Website: Preobrazheniye Airport does not have its own official website. It is recommended to check all information regarding schedules, rules, and services on the carrier airline's website.
• Inquiry Service Phone: There is no unified airport inquiry phone number available to the public. For all questions related to your flight, you should contact the airline directly.
• Airport Address: Russia, Primorsky Krai, Lazovsky District, Preobrazheniye settlement.
• Email: An official email address for passenger inquiries is not provided.
• Social Media: The airport does not maintain official pages on social networks.
• Lost Luggage Information: Issues regarding the search for lost or damaged luggage are handled exclusively by the airline on whose flight you travelled. Please contact your carrier's baggage tracing service.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Passenger support for all issues (ticket changes, special services, flight information) is provided by the airline that sold the ticket.

Preobrazheniye Airport is a small local air terminal serving the settlement of the same name in Primorsky Krai, Russia. Since the airport is located in the immediate vicinity of the residential quarters of Preobrazheniye, the journey to it will not take much time, and the choice of transport, although not vast, allows you to get to the terminal without particular difficulties.

Taxi or Transfer is the most convenient and fastest way to get to the airport. A trip from any point in the settlement will take just 10–15 minutes. This is the optimal option if you are travelling with luggage or value comfort. You can order a car by phone from one of the local taxi services. The cost of the trip will be low, but it is better to confirm it with the dispatcher when ordering.

Regarding public transport, theoretically, a local bus route passing by the airport may exist. This would be the most budget-friendly option, however, the schedule may be irregular, and the bus itself may run rarely. We recommend clarifying information about the route and schedule with local residents in advance. There are no other types of public transport, such as trains or metro, in the settlement.

If you are travelling by private or rented car, the trip to the airport will be as simple as possible. The route from the centre of Preobrazheniye will also take no more than 15 minutes. Near the terminal building, there is usually a small parking area where you can leave your car. Short-term parking for dropping off passengers is usually free. If you plan to leave your car for several days, it is worth inquiring about conditions and rates for long-term parking in advance.

Preobrazheniye Airport (RZH) is a small local airport serving the settlement of the same name and nearby districts in Russia. Its structure is as simple and functional as possible, which is typical for small regional aviation hubs.

The airport complex consists of one passenger terminal. It is a compact building that combines all the zones necessary for passenger service. Thanks to its modest size, navigation through the terminal is intuitive, and getting lost here is practically impossible. Since there is only one terminal, transfers between buildings or different levels are not required.

Inside the single building, you will find:

• Departure Zone: includes check-in counters and a small waiting area for passengers.
• Arrival Zone: combined with the baggage claim area. After the aircraft lands, passengers proceed to the terminal where they collect their belongings.

All procedures are organised in a single space, making the process of passing control fast and convenient.

Check-in and security screening at Preobrazheniye Airport usually take very little time — typically no more than 20-30 minutes. However, considering possible changes in the schedule and the specifics of local airline operations, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1-1.5 hours before departure. The main tip for navigation is simple: all key points — from the entrance to the boarding gate — are within direct line of sight, making it very easy to orient yourself.

The history of Preobrazheniye (RZH) Airport is inextricably linked with the development of the settlement of the same name and its mainstay enterprise — the Preobrazhenskaya Trawl Fleet Base (PBTF). The airport was built in the Soviet era as a key infrastructure element ensuring transport accessibility for this remote coastal settlement in Russia. Its main task was serving the needs of the huge fishing fleet, transporting specialists, changing crews, as well as carrying passengers and urgent cargo to the regional centre and back.

During the heyday of the PBTF, which occurred in the 1970s and 1980s, the airport experienced its "golden age". Regular flights were operated on Yak-40 and An-2 aircraft, connecting Preobrazheniye with Vladivostok and other settlements in Primorsky Krai. The airport was an important transport hub playing a strategic role in the economic life of the entire region. It provided a fast and reliable link with the "mainland", which was critically important for the efficient operation of the fleet and the comfortable life of thousands of people working at the enterprise.

With the economic changes of the 1990s and the subsequent reduction in the activities of the trawl fleet base, flight intensity decreased significantly. Regular air traffic was practically ceased for a long time, and the airport was used mainly for air ambulance needs, helicopter transport, and rare charter flights. Despite this, it retained its status as an important infrastructure facility for the settlement. In recent years, within the framework of regional aviation development programmes in Primorye, plans for reconstruction and the resumption of regular flights have been discussed, giving hope for a new revival of the air gates of Preobrazheniye.

Preobrazheniye Airport (RZH) is a small regional aviation hub that provides passengers with a basic set of services necessary for a comfortable wait for a flight. Given the modest size of the terminal, the infrastructure here is focused on the essentials.

In the terminal building, you will find a waiting hall for all passengers. Specialised VIP lounges are absent. Shopping and dining options are limited: typically, a small buffet operates, or vending machines with drinks and snacks are installed. Therefore, if you plan a full meal, it is better to do so before arriving at the airport.

Basic services are provided for the convenience of passengers. The availability of free Wi-Fi is not guaranteed, and the number of sockets for charging electronic devices may be limited, so it is recommended to bring a portable power bank. There are no ATMs, banks, or currency exchange points within the terminal, so you should arrange for cash in advance.

In case of necessity, a medical point operates at the airport where first aid can be provided. For passengers with small children, a mother and child room may be available, but its existence and operating hours are best checked in advance. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with assistance during boarding and disembarking; however, it is necessary to notify the airline of your needs at least 48 hours before departure.

There are no specialised business centres or conference halls at the airport. There are also no hotels on the territory of the aviation hub. The nearest accommodation options can be found directly in the settlement of Preobrazheniye.

When planning a trip through Preobrazheniye (RZH) Airport, it is important to consider that this is a small regional aviation hub. The infrastructure here is quite modest, and the choice of catering establishments is limited, which is typical for airports of this size.

Typically, a small buffet or café operates in the terminal building, located in the general waiting hall before the security zone. Here, passengers can purchase basic beverages such as tea, coffee, juices, and water, as well as have a snack before departure. The assortment usually includes simple pastries, sandwiches, chocolate, and other snacks. This is a convenient option for a quick bite, but do not count on a full hot lunch or a multi-course dinner.

Specialised establishments offering vegetarian, vegan, halal, or gluten-free dishes are likely absent at Preobrazheniye Airport. Prices in the buffet are usually moderate. Its operating hours are generally tied to the flight schedule — it opens some time before departure and closes after the last aircraft has departed.

Recommendation for travellers: If you need a full meal or adhere to a specific diet, it is better to eat in advance in the settlement of Preobrazheniye or bring food with you. A small supply of your own snacks can also be useful, especially in case of a flight delay.

To ensure your journey from Preobrazheniye Airport begins without unnecessary stress, follow a few simple tips. Generally, for domestic flights, it is sufficient to arrive at the airport 1.5–2 hours before departure. This time is enough to calmly check in your luggage, pass security screening, and find your boarding gate. Always check your airline's recommendations, as some carriers may have their own rules.

To save time, use online check-in for your flight if your airline provides this option. This will allow you to choose a seat and receive a boarding pass in advance, and upon arrival at the airport, you will only need to drop off your luggage at a special counter. The security screening procedure is standard: be prepared to remove electronics, metal objects, and containers with liquids from your hand luggage.

When choosing a seat on the plane, be guided by your preferences. Window seats (A, F) are ideal for those who love to admire the views, especially during takeoff and landing. Aisle seats (C, D) are convenient if you plan to get up during the flight without disturbing your neighbours. Rows at emergency exits often offer more legroom, but be prepared that hand luggage cannot be kept on the floor in these seats.

Pay close attention to packing your hand luggage. Remember that liquids can be carried in containers of no more than 100 ml, packed in one transparent bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited. Rules for carrying batteries and portable chargers (power banks) are best clarified with the airline — usually, they are allowed only in hand luggage.

If your route involves a transfer in another city, allow enough time for it, especially if changing airports or terminals. For Preobrazheniye Airport, which is more of a departure point than a major transit hub, this means you need to plan logistics in the connecting airport in advance. Ensure your luggage is checked through to your final destination.

Customs control is undergone by passengers on international flights. Since Preobrazheniye Airport is oriented towards domestic flights within Russia, most travellers will not need this procedure. If you are flying on an international flight later in your journey, familiarise yourself with the rules for importing and exporting goods and currency in advance to avoid delays when passing through the "green" or "red" channel.

A few tricks can help save time and money on your trip. Book a taxi or transfer in advance to avoid overpaying on the spot. Travel light — this will help avoid surcharges for excess baggage. Take an empty water bottle with you, which can be filled after passing security, and a light snack to avoid spending on food at the airport.

In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact a representative of your airline for information. Depending on the length of the delay, you may be provided with drinks, hot meals, or even hotel accommodation. Keep all essentials handy in your hand luggage: documents, medicines, a charger, and warm clothes in case of a long wait.