Yuzhny

Yuzhny Airport in Taganrog is not merely a transport hub, but an important part of the aviation history of Russia. Located within the city limits, it has served as the air gateway for residents and guests of this seaside city for decades. Although the airport does not currently accept regular civil flights, it remains a significant facility closely linked to the local aircraft manufacturing complex. Its history reflects the development of domestic aviation, and its convenient location holds potential for the future revival of passenger services.

Below is the basic information about Taganrog-Yuzhny Airport.

The main feature of Yuzhny Airport is its close integration with the Beriev Aircraft Company, one of the country's leading aircraft manufacturing enterprises. This proximity historically defined its role not only as a passenger airport but also as a test airfield. The airport's main advantage is its convenient location practically within the city limits, which in the past allowed travellers to reach the centre in a matter of minutes. Despite the temporary suspension of civil transport, the infrastructure and runway are maintained in working order.

At present, Yuzhny Airport in Taganrog does not service regular passenger flights and is used primarily for the needs of the aviation industry. Consequently, standard services for passengers are absent, and contact information for tourists is not available.

• Official Website: There is no separate website for passengers, as the airport does not perform regular commercial transport.
• Inquiry Service Phone: A specialised inquiry service for passengers is not functioning.
• Airport Address: Russia, Rostov Region, Taganrog, Ploshchad Aviatorov, 1.
• Email: There is no public email for passenger enquiries.
• Social Media: Official accounts for informing passengers are not maintained.
• Lost Luggage Information: The luggage tracing service is inactive due to the lack of passenger traffic.
• Passenger Support Contacts: This service is not provided.

Yuzhny Airport is located within the city limits of Taganrog, on its western outskirts. Before planning your route, it is important to note that currently, this air harbour does not service regular passenger flights and is used mainly for the aviation industry. The main passenger hub for travellers heading to this region of Russia is the international Platov Airport in Rostov-on-Don. However, if you need to reach Yuzhny Airport specifically, use one of the following methods.

Public Transport is the most economical option. You can reach the district where the airport is located by city buses or fixed-route taxis (minibuses) heading in the western direction. Since a direct route to the airport gates may not exist, be prepared to walk part of the way. The journey from the city centre will take about 40-50 minutes. We recommend checking current route numbers and schedules in advance.

Taxi or Transfer is the fastest and most comfortable method. A trip from the central part of Taganrog will take approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. You can book a car via popular mobile apps or use the services of local taxi companies. This option is particularly convenient if you are in a hurry or travelling with a lot of luggage. The cost of the trip will be significantly higher than public transport.

By Private or Rental Car, reaching the airport is very simple — just follow your navigation system. This method offers maximum freedom of movement. Regarding parking, since the airport is not designed for mass passenger reception, organised long-term parking for travellers may not be available. This should be considered when planning your visit.

Yuzhny (TGK) Airport in Taganrog is distinguished by its extreme conciseness and compactness. Unlike major international hubs, you will not find confusing corridors or trains between gates here. The infrastructure of the air hub is designed to ensure the fastest possible service for passengers who value their time.

Number of Terminals and Their Purpose
The terminal complex consists of just one passenger terminal. It is a small single-storey building that services both departing and arriving flights. Thanks to this structure, the airport operates on a "single window" principle: all necessary procedures, from check-in to boarding, take place in close proximity to each other. The terminal mainly specialises in regional flights and business aviation services.

Layout and Navigation
Navigation inside Yuzhny Airport is intuitive and does not require maps or apps.

• Departure Zone: Upon entering the terminal, passengers immediately enter the security screening area at the entrance, followed by check-in counters. Distances are minimal — literally a few steps from the entrance to the counter.
• Waiting Zone: After passing pre-flight screening, travellers find themselves in a small waiting hall. Please note that due to the compact size, there are no extensive Duty Free zones or large food courts here, so it is better to stock up on necessities in advance.
• Arrival Zone: Baggage claim is carried out in a specially designated sector of the terminal, and thanks to the low passenger flow, this process is very swift.

Transfers and Connections
Since the airport has only one terminal, there is no need for inter-terminal transfers. Transfer flights are a rarity here, so complex connection systems are not provided. If your itinerary involves a transfer, you will simply need to collect your luggage and check in again in the same hall.

Procedure Times
The main advantage of Yuzhny Airport is speed. The absence of queues and low throughput capacity (about 54 passengers per hour) allow for completing all formalities in record time. Usually, check-in and screening take no more than 15–20 minutes. Nevertheless, passengers are advised to arrive at the airport at least an hour before departure to complete all procedures calmly.

Recommendations for Passengers
The terminal building is located on Ploshchad Aviatorov (Aviators' Square). For a comfortable wait, it is recommended to bring a book or gadget, as entertainment infrastructure inside is limited. The airport is ideal for those who prefer a quick and business-like style of travel without unnecessary fuss.

The history of Yuzhny Airport (TGK) is inextricably linked with the aviation industry and the city of Taganrog. It grew out of the factory airfield of the Beriev Aircraft Company — one of the world's leading centres for the creation of hydroplanes and amphibious aircraft. For decades, its main function was conducting flight tests of new and modernised aircraft, making its history unique.

The airfield has witnessed the first flights of many legendary aircraft. It was here that the famous "Be" series amphibious aircraft took to the skies and set world records. For example, the Be-200 multipurpose amphibious aircraft, known for its effectiveness in fighting forest fires around the world, went through all stages of testing at this site. Thus, the airfield has made a huge contribution to the development of domestic and global hydro-aviation.

In addition to its primary testing role, the airport serviced civil flights during certain periods. Until the early 2010s, regular passenger transport was carried out from here, connecting Taganrog with other cities. However, over time, the infrastructure ceased to meet modern requirements, leading to a temporary suspension of civil air traffic and serving as an impetus for radical modernisation.

The newest stage in the airport's history began in the late 2010s with the launch of a large-scale reconstruction project. The goal was to transform it into the modern international airport complex Yuzhny. The project included the construction of a new runway capable of accepting most modern types of aircraft, the erection of a new passenger terminal, and the renewal of all airfield infrastructure. This modernisation aims to open a new page in the airport's history, making it an important transport hub in the south of Russia.

Interesting fact: Yuzhny Airport is one of the few in the world that historically combined the functions of a testing ground for unique amphibious aircraft and an airfield for civil aviation. This dual heritage makes it not just a transport facility, but a true monument to aviation engineering and history.

The infrastructure of Yuzhny (TGK) Airport corresponds to its boutique format and is oriented towards short-term stays for passengers before departure. A basic set of services necessary for a comfortable wait for a flight is presented here, without the excesses typical of large international hubs.

Restaurants, Cafés, and Shops
Given the small area of the terminal and the specific schedule, dining options here are limited. Passengers can use the services of a small buffet or cafeteria, offering hot and cold beverages, sandwiches, and light snacks. Vending machines are installed for those who want a quick bite. There are no full-service restaurants in the building. The retail area is represented by a kiosk with printed media and souvenirs, where you can buy newspapers, magazines, or small trinkets before your flight.

Waiting Lounges and VIP Service
For passengers who value enhanced comfort and privacy, the airport provides a VIP Lounge (Hall for Official Delegations). It is located in a separate wing and has its own entrance. Guests are offered:

• Individual flight check-in and baggage processing;
• A comfortable relaxation area with soft furnishings and a television;
• Transport to the aircraft via a separate minibus;
• The possibility of holding business negotiations.

Communications and Finance
A Wi-Fi zone operates within the terminal, providing internet access, which allows passengers to stay connected or work while waiting for boarding. To resolve financial matters, an ATM is installed in the hall, operating around the clock. Full bank branches or currency exchange points are not provided in the terminal building, so it is recommended to arrange for cash in advance while in the city.

Medical Services and Safety
The airport is equipped with a medical point where qualified personnel are ready to provide first aid in case of illness. The service operates during flight service hours. Passengers can also approach staff for assistance if they need to take specific medications or in case of emergencies.

Services for Passengers with Children and Reduced Mobility
Despite its compactness, the airport strives to ensure an accessible environment:

• For Parents: A mother and child room is provided where you can change a baby, feed them, or simply rest in silence before the flight. Access is granted to passengers with preschool children and pregnant women.
• For Passengers with Reduced Mobility: Entrance groups are equipped with ramps. If necessary, airport staff provide accompaniment from the terminal entrance to boarding the aircraft (ambulift or boarding assistance). It is recommended to notify the airline of the need for special assistance when booking your ticket.

Hotels and Accommodation
There is no dedicated hotel on the territory of Yuzhny Airport. However, thanks to the location of the terminal practically within the city of Taganrog, accommodation is easily resolved. The nearest city hotels and guest houses are just a 10–15 minute drive away by taxi or public transport. This allows travellers to rest comfortably in the city even in the event of a long flight delay.

The gastronomic infrastructure of Yuzhny (TGK) Airport fully reflects its boutique status. Here you will not find an extensive network of fine dining restaurants or noisy food courts typical of large aviation hubs. Catering is organised on the principle of "necessary and sufficient" so that passengers can refresh themselves before a short flight.

Cafés and Food Points
A small buffet (cafeteria) operates in the airport's single terminal, located in the general waiting area. This is a versatile place where you can order freshly brewed coffee, tea, soft drinks, and light snacks. The assortment usually includes sandwiches, fresh pastries, chocolate, and biscuits. For those in a rush or simply wanting to buy water, vending machines with drinks and snacks are installed in the hall.

Menu and Local Specialities
Due to the limited format of the establishment, the menu focuses on simple and filling dishes for a quick snack. There are no branded restaurants with signature cuisine in the terminal. However, in the buffet, you can sometimes find pastries from local Taganrog bakeries — pies or puffs, which will be a pleasant reminder of southern hospitality.

Special Dietary Requirements (Vegetarian, Halal, Healthy Lifestyle)
The choice for passengers with strict dietary preferences is quite modest here:

• Vegetarians: Simple snacks (nuts, chocolate, crisps) or meat-free pastries are available.
• Vegans and Gluten-Free: Specialised dishes are generally not provided in the buffet menu. It is recommended to arrange a snack in advance and bring fruits or suitable items with you.
• Halal: Certified Halal products are rarely found; it is advisable to check the composition of products on factory packaging.

Prices and Opening Hours
The pricing policy at Yuzhny Airport is moderate, although the cost of goods may be slightly higher than in ordinary city shops, which is traditional for airport terminals.

• Average Bill: A light snack with coffee and a sandwich will cost approximately 300–500 Rubles.
• Opening Hours: Food points are tied to the flight schedule. The buffet opens by the start of check-in and finishes work after the aircraft departs.

Recommendations for Passengers
If you are planning a full meal, it is best to visit one of the cafés or restaurants in Taganrog itself before travelling to the airport, as the journey takes very little time. The airport infrastructure is ideal for a quick snack: a cup of coffee with a croissant or a sandwich will help pass the short wait for boarding.

Travelling through a small regional airport like Yuzhny (TGK) in Taganrog has its own specifics. The absence of the hustle and bustle of huge hubs makes the trip calmer but requires knowledge of certain nuances for maximum comfort.

Arrival Time and Check-in
Although the airport is famous for fast service, it is not worth risking arriving right at gate closure. The optimal arrival time is 1–1.5 hours before departure. This will be sufficient to pass entrance control, check in, and drop off luggage without haste. Check-in usually takes place at one of the few counters; queues move quickly, but at peak moments (if a full flight is departing), small delays are possible. Have your documents ready immediately upon entering the terminal.

Choosing a Seat on the Plane
Flights from Taganrog are often operated on small types of aircraft. When choosing a seat, consider the following:

• Views: If the weather is clear, choose a window seat. During take-off and landing, a picturesque panorama of the Taganrog Bay of the Sea of Azov and the green quarters of the city opens up.
• Comfort: In small aircraft, overhead bins for hand luggage may be smaller than standard, and legroom limited. If you are tall, aisle seats may be more comfortable.

Hand Luggage and Baggage
Standard Russian aviation security rules apply at the airport. It is prohibited to carry sharp objects, liquids in containers larger than 100 ml (except for baby food and medicines with a certificate), and flammable substances in hand luggage.
Important Tip: Given the compact cabins of regional aircraft, try not to take overly bulky bags into the cabin, even if they formally fit the dimensions. You may be asked to hand them over as luggage at the stairs (Delivery at Aircraft).

Recommendations for Transfer Passengers
Yuzhny Airport does not have a dedicated transit zone. If Taganrog is an intermediate point for you, the transfer procedure will look like this: exit to the city, baggage claim, and re-check-in for the next flight. Allow at least 2–3 hours for the connection to complete all formalities again.

Customs Control
The airport primarily services domestic flights, so customs control here is usually absent or formal during rare international departures (business aviation). However, always follow general rules: do not transport prohibited goods and declare large sums of cash if required by the legislation of the Russian Federation.

Saving Time and Money

• Transport: Do not overpay private drivers offering services at the exit. Booking a taxi via a mobile app will be significantly cheaper, and the car will arrive in just 3–5 minutes.
• Food: Prices in the airport buffet are higher than in the city. If you want to save money, bring an empty water bottle (sometimes there are water coolers) and a light snack (sandwiches, chocolate) purchased in advance in the city.

What to Do in Case of Flight Delay
The main plus of Yuzhny Airport is its location practically in the centre of a residential zone. If your flight is delayed for more than 3–4 hours, there is no sense sitting in the small waiting hall. You can take a taxi and be in the centre of Taganrog in 10–15 minutes, take a walk along the Pushkin Embankment, or have lunch in a good restaurant, and then return by the new departure time.