Donskoye

"Donskoye" Airport is not a giant international hub, but a cosy and modern air gateway to the Tambov Region. Located not far from Tambov, it serves as a starting point for exploring this distinctive region of Russia. The airport is ideal for those who value time and comfort, offering quick and peaceful service away from the hustle and bustle of major aviation hubs. Following recent reconstruction, it has become even more convenient for passengers.

The key advantage of Donskoye Airport is its compactness and lack of queues. Check-in and security procedures here are significantly faster than in large terminals. This is particularly valuable for business travellers and tourists who wish to begin their journey through the city and region without unnecessary delays. The terminal building is small but functional, with a basic range of services for a comfortable wait.

The airport plays an important role in the region's transport accessibility, providing direct air links with Moscow. Following the recent modernisation of the runway and terminal, "Donskoye" can accommodate modern aircraft types, enhancing flight reliability and comfort. You can reach the centre of Tambov from the airport in approximately 20-30 minutes by taxi or public transport, making it a convenient starting point for your journey.

If you need to contact representatives of Donskoye (TBW) Airport, you may use the following contact details:

• Official Website: tambov.aero
• Information Desk Phone: +7 (4752) 77-62-71
• Address: Russia, Tambov Region, Tambov District, Donskoye Village, Airport
• Email: info@tambov.aero
• Social Media: The airport maintains an official page on the "VKontakte" social network (vk.com/tambov_airport), where current news and schedule changes are published.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact the information desk via the main phone number.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For enquiries and passenger support, it is recommended to use the airport's information desk phone.

There are several ways to get to Donskoye Airport (TBW), located approximately 10 kilometres northeast of Tambov. The choice of the best option depends on your budget, amount of luggage, and available time. When planning your route, please note that there is no direct rail link or metro line to the airport.

Public transport is the most budget-friendly way to reach the airport. Bus No. 119 runs from the Tambov railway station to the air terminal. The route passes through the city's central streets, which is convenient for many travellers. The fare is very affordable, approximately 30 Rubles. The journey takes on average 40–50 minutes, but travel time may increase during peak hours. It is recommended to check the current bus schedule before departure.

Taxi or private transfer is the fastest and most comfortable option. The trip from the city centre will take just 20–30 minutes in the absence of traffic jams. The cost of the trip is usually 300–500 Rubles, depending on the carrier and demand. This method is particularly convenient if you are travelling with children or a large amount of luggage. To ensure a predictable price, it is better to order a car via official mobile apps or book a transfer in advance.

Car rental offers complete freedom of movement and is ideal for tourists wishing to explore not only the city but also its surroundings. By renting a car, you can reach the airport independently and without haste, as well as travel around the Tambov Region. In Russia, there are many local and international rental companies operating.

If you plan to drive to the airport in your own vehicle, parking is available within the airport complex territory. You can leave your car for a short period to greet or see off loved ones, or for the long term during your trip. This is a safe and convenient option for car owners.

Donskoye (TBW) Airport, serving the city of Tambov and its surroundings, is a small and compact regional hub. A key feature of the airport that travellers should be aware of is the presence of only one passenger terminal. This significantly simplifies navigation and makes your stay at the airport as straightforward as possible.

All airport infrastructure is concentrated in a single building. There are no complex layouts, multi-level crossings, or need to move between different buildings. Departure and arrival zones are located within the same terminal, making it impossible to get lost. Typically, check-in counters and the security screening area for departing passengers are located on the left or right side of the building, while the baggage claim area for arriving flights is on the opposite side.

Due to its small size and moderate passenger flow, completing all pre-flight formalities at Donskoye Airport takes minimal time. Check-in and security screening usually proceed quickly, without the long queues characteristic of major airports in Russia. As a rule, arriving at the airport 1–1.5 hours before a domestic flight is quite sufficient.

Since there is only one terminal, all services are within walking distance. Inside the building, you will find a general waiting hall, check-in counters, a security checkpoint, and a baggage claim area. The set of amenities is standard for a small regional airport and includes everything necessary for a comfortable wait for your flight.

The main recommendation for navigation at Donskoye Airport is simple: do not worry. All key zones — from the entrance to the boarding gate — are in direct line of sight. Follow the standard signs for "Departure" and "Arrival", and you will easily find the part of the terminal you need.

The history of Tambov's "Donskoye" Airport dates back to the 1930s when a military airfield was founded on this site. A new phase began after the war with the development of civil aviation, but the key moment was the opening of the modern airport complex in 1971. It received its name from the nearby village of Donskoye.

The heyday of the air harbour occurred during the Soviet period. The airport became an important transport hub connecting the Tambov Region with Moscow, Leningrad, Black Sea resorts, and other cities of the USSR. At that time, aircraft such as the An-24, Yak-40, and Il-14 were based and serviced here, ensuring stable passenger flow and regular air connections.

In the 1990s, like many regional airports, "Donskoye" went through difficult times with a significant reduction in flights. A new life began in the 21st century thanks to a series of modernisations. The most significant event was the large-scale reconstruction of the runway in the 2010s. This allowed the airport to accept more modern types of aircraft, increasing the level of safety and comfort for passengers. Navigation equipment and the terminal complex were also updated.

One of the most interesting facts from the airport's past: until the 1980s, the runway intersected with a public road. During take-offs and landings, traffic was stopped by a simple barrier gate, which seems almost incredible today. Now "Donskoye" is an airport of federal significance and continues to play an important role in the transport infrastructure of Central Russia.

Donskoye Airport (TBW) is a small and compact regional hub that provides passengers with all the essential services for comfortably waiting for their flight. Despite the modest size of the terminal, conditions have been created here so that travellers feel confident before flying.

You can have a snack or drink coffee in the café located in the terminal building. The assortment includes light snacks, pastries, and beverages. Small retail outlets also operate here, where you can purchase souvenirs, fresh press, and travel necessities.

A general waiting hall is available for passengers. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay connected. Power sockets are provided for charging gadgets. For travellers who value extra comfort, a VIP waiting lounge may be available; conditions for access should be checked at the information desk.

To resolve financial matters, an ATM is installed at the airport. In case of need, passengers can visit the 24-hour medical point. Families with small children will appreciate the presence of a Mother and Child Room, equipped for baby care and rest.

Donskoye Airport is equipped to serve passengers with reduced mobility. To receive assistance with passing through control, moving around the terminal, and boarding the aircraft, it is recommended to contact your airline representatives in advance.

There are no hotels on the airport territory, but travellers can easily find suitable accommodation options in the nearby city of Tambov. Specialised business centres or conference halls are absent at the airport, so for business meetings, it is better to use city infrastructure facilities.

Donskoye (TBW) Airport is a small regional air hub, so the choice of dining establishments here is quite modest and primarily designed for passengers wishing to have a quick snack before departure. Do not expect a large variety of restaurants here, as seen in major international airports.

The main place to eat is the café or buffet located in the general waiting hall, before the pre-flight security check (landside). This makes it accessible to both departing passengers and those meeting or seeing them off. The menu usually includes simple and filling dishes: sandwiches, fresh pastries, salads, as well as hot drinks, juices, and water. This is an ideal option for a quick bite.

If you are counting on a full hot lunch or dinner, the best solution would be to eat at one of the restaurants in the city of Tambov before arriving at the airport. Specialised dietary options, such as vegan, gluten-free, or halal dishes, are likely not represented at Donskoye Airport. Passengers with strict dietary restrictions are recommended to bring food with them.

The price range in the local café is usually moderate. Opening hours depend directly on the flight schedule: the establishment opens a few hours before the first departure and closes after the departure of the last flight. After passing security control (airside), opportunities to purchase food and drinks may be severely limited or non-existent, so it is better to purchase everything necessary in advance.

To ensure your journey through Donskoye Airport in the city of Tambov goes as smoothly as possible, use our tips. These recommendations will help you save time and stress, and make your flight more comfortable.

Arrival Time and Check-in. Donskoye Airport is small, so there are rarely long queues here. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive 1.5-2 hours before a domestic flight departure. This time is sufficient to check in luggage without haste, pass security control, and reach the boarding gate. To save time, use online check-in on your airline's website if available. This will allow you to choose a seat in advance and, if travelling without luggage, proceed immediately to security.

Security Screening and Hand Luggage. Be prepared in advance: empty your pockets of metal items, remove outerwear, belts, and watches. Laptops, tablets, and other large electronics must be taken out of your bag and placed in a separate tray. Remember the rules for carrying liquids in hand luggage: all containers must be no more than 100 ml in volume and packed in one transparent resealable bag. It is prohibited to carry sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances in the cabin.

Seat Selection and Transfers. When choosing a seat on the plane, be guided by your preferences: a window seat will offer beautiful views during take-off and landing, while an aisle seat allows you to stand up freely without disturbing neighbours. Since the airport mainly serves flights within Russia, international transfers are extremely rare here. If you have a connection planned at another, larger airport, allow at least 2-3 hours for it to avoid rushing.

Economy and Flight Delays. To save money, book tickets in advance and consider travelling to the airport by public transport or a taxi ordered via an app. In case of a flight delay or cancellation, contact your airline representative at the airport. Depending on the wait duration, you are entitled to drinks, hot meals, and, if necessary, hotel accommodation. Keep a portable charger and a book in your hand luggage to make the waiting time pass more comfortably.