Mendeleyevo

Mendeleyevo Airport is not merely an air gateway, but the main entrance to the amazing Kunashir Island, the southernmost island in the Greater Kuril Ridge. Located near the settlement of Yuzhno-Kurilsk, this airport serves as a key transport hub connecting the island with the mainland and providing a vital link for local residents and tourists. It is from here that journeys to volcanoes, hot springs, and the unique nature of one of the most remote and beautiful corners of the planet begin.

Despite its modest size, Mendeleyevo Airport plays a huge role in the life of the island. Following reconstruction, modern lighting equipment was installed, allowing flights to be received even during hours of darkness. The airport is capable of servicing aircraft such as the Bombardier DHC-8, which are perfectly suited for regional flights. For the convenience of passengers, the terminal building features a waiting hall and ticket counters, while transport connections to Yuzhno-Kurilsk are provided by scheduled buses and taxis.

You can contact representatives of Mendeleyevo Airport (DEE) in several ways. Below you will find essential contact information to help you plan your journey and resolve any potential queries.

• Official Website: Flight schedules, news, and general information can be found on the official airport website.
• Information Desk Phone: For up-to-date information regarding flights and airport services, please call: +7 (42455) 2-27-02.
• Address: Mendeleyevo Airport, Yuzhno-Kurilsky Urban District.
• Email: For written enquiries, you may use the address: info@airport-kurilsk.ru.
• Social Media: At present, the airport does not maintain active official pages on social networks. The website remains the primary source of information.
• Lost Luggage Information: For matters related to lost luggage, please contact the luggage tracing service at +7 (42455) 2-27-02 or the representative of the airline that operated your flight.
• Passenger Support Contacts: The main channel for passenger support is the information desk phone: +7 (42455) 2-27-02.

Mendeleyevo Airport (DEE) is the main air gateway of Kunashir Island, located approximately 20 kilometres southwest of the settlement of Yuzhno-Kurilsk. There are several ways to get from the centre of the settlement to the airport, the choice of which depends on your budget, time, and comfort preferences. Regardless of the chosen option, it is always recommended to depart with ample time to spare.

Public Transport is the most budget-friendly method. A local bus runs between Yuzhno-Kurilsk and the airport. Its schedule is generally tied to flight arrival and departure times; however, it is advisable to verify this in advance as it may change. The bus journey takes about 30–40 minutes. This option is suitable for travellers with light luggage, but please note that the number of seats may be limited.

Taxi or Private Transfer is the most convenient and fastest option. A car journey from the settlement centre to the airport takes 20–25 minutes. There are several local taxi services in Yuzhno-Kurilsk that can be called by phone. It is strongly recommended to book a car in advance, especially if you have an early flight or are travelling with significant luggage. The cost will be higher than the bus, but this is compensated by speed, comfort, and delivery directly to the terminal.

For those desiring maximum freedom of movement around the island, car rental is suitable. Rental points in the settlement offer various vehicles, but due to high demand and limited supply, particularly during the tourist season, it is best to book transport well before your trip. There is a car park near Mendeleyevo Airport where you can leave your vehicle. It is best to clarify conditions and costs directly on site.

When planning a trip to the airport on this unique island in Russia, always remember the changeable weather, which can affect the road situation. Organising a transfer in advance or checking the bus schedule will help you avoid rushing and make the start or end of your journey more peaceful.

Mendeleyevo Airport (DEE) is a modern yet very compact aviation hub serving the town of Yuzhno-Kurilsk and its surroundings. Its structure is simple and intuitive, making a stay here comfortable even for first-time visitors.

The airport operates one passenger terminal. This is a small building that handles all flights — both arrivals and departures. Thanks to this, you do not need to worry about transferring between terminals or searching for the right sector for a long time. All infrastructure is located in one place, which significantly simplifies navigation.

The terminal layout is extremely simple. Upon entry, you immediately find yourself in the main hall, where the check-in counters and waiting area are located. The exit to security and boarding is also situated here. The arrival and departure zones are functionally separated but are within walking distance of each other. The arrivals hall is equipped with a baggage reclaim belt. Signs are clear and understandable, but even without them, getting lost in such a compact space is practically impossible.

Registration and security procedures at Mendeleyevo Airport usually proceed very quickly due to the low passenger flow. Long queues are rare here. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport as standard — 1.5–2 hours before departure, to complete all formalities without haste. For navigation, simply follow the signs: Check-in counters, Security check, and the Boarding Gate are all visible and in close proximity to one another.

Mendeleyevo Airport (DEE) is not just a transport hub, but a true historical milestone for Kunashir Island and the town of Yuzhno-Kurilsk. For decades, it has been the main and often the only thread connecting the island's residents with the mainland. Its history is a tale of overcoming harsh natural conditions and striving to ensure stable communication with one of the most remote and beautiful regions of the country.

The airport was built during the Soviet period to solve a critical problem — frequent fogs that made flights to other airfields in the Kuril Islands irregular and unsafe. Located at the foot of the Mendeleev Volcano, it was named in honour of this natural giant. Since its opening, the airport has become a vital facility ensuring passenger transport, mail delivery, cargo, and the execution of medical flights.

For a long time, the airport's main problem was its runway, assembled from metal plates. Such surfacing imposed serious restrictions on the types of aircraft accepted and made operations in difficult weather conditions extremely challenging. Flights were often cancelled, and connection with the "mainland" could be interrupted for several days or even weeks.

The key stage that completely changed life on the island was the large-scale reconstruction of the airport. The old metal strip was replaced with a modern one featuring a solid asphalt-concrete surface. This modernisation allowed the airport to accept more modern and spacious aircraft, such as the Bombardier DHC-8, and, most importantly, to operate in almost any weather. The reliability of air communication increased significantly.

Today, Mendeleyevo is a modern and reliable air harbour for Kunashir, confidently accepting scheduled flights. The history of this airport is a vivid example of how persistence and modern technology allowed for the conquering of harsh nature and made a remote island accessible. For many generations of islanders, the roar of an aircraft coming in for landing has been and remains a symbol of connection with the wider world and hope for a long-awaited meeting.

Mendeleyevo Airport, despite its modest size, offers passengers all the basic services necessary for a comfortable wait before departure. A café operates within the terminal building, where one can order hot drinks, pastries, and light snacks. Additionally, a small souvenir shop is open for travellers, where memorable gifts with symbols of the Kuril Islands and travel goods can be purchased.

A general waiting hall is equipped for all passengers. Although a separate VIP lounge is not provided at the airport, there is sufficient space in the main hall to rest before a flight. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and for those who need to charge electronic devices, there are power sockets and special charging stations.

Financial services are represented by an ATM where cash can be withdrawn. Please note that there are no currency exchange points at the airport, so it is best to arrange this in advance. In case of necessity, passengers can turn to the 24-hour medical point for first aid.

The airport cares for passengers with special needs. For travellers with small children, a mother and child room is open, where one can feed and change a baby in a quiet environment. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with all necessary assistance, including escort through the airport territory and to the aircraft. To book this service, it is recommended to contact the airline representatives in advance.

There are no hotels directly on the airport territory; however, travellers can easily find accommodation options in the nearby town of Yuzhno-Kurilsk. Specialised business centres and conference halls are also not provided at the airport; these services are available in the town's hotels. This airport serves as a gateway to the amazing world of the Kuril Islands, which are part of Russia.

Mendeleyevo Airport (DEE) is a small regional aviation hub, so the choice of catering establishments here is limited. Do not expect a large food court with a variety of restaurants. Typically, all opportunities for a snack are concentrated in one place — a small café or buffet located in the general hall of the single passenger terminal.

In the local café, passengers can purchase hot and cold drinks (tea, coffee, water), pastries, sandwiches, chocolate, and other light snacks. This is quite sufficient for a quick bite before departure. The assortment does not suggest full hot meals or gourmet local cuisine. All food outlets are located in the public zone (before passing security control), so they can be used by both departing passengers and those meeting them.

Passengers with specific dietary requirements (vegetarian, gluten-free, etc.) are strongly advised to bring food with them, as finding suitable options at the airport will likely not be possible. For a full lunch or dinner, it is better to choose one of the establishments in the town of Yuzhno-Kurilsk prior to travelling to the airport. The buffet's opening hours are directly tied to the flight schedule — it opens to serve passengers and closes shortly after the aircraft departs.

To ensure your journey through Mendeleyevo Airport goes smoothly, please make use of these tips. Given the remoteness and specific features of the Kuril Islands, good preparation is the key to success.

Arrival Time at the Airport. Despite the modest size of the terminal, we recommend arriving at least 1.5–2 hours before departure. The weather on the islands is unpredictable and can affect the schedule, and queues for check-in are possible during the peak tourist season.

Check-in and Security. Procedures at the airport of Yuzhno-Kurilsk usually proceed faster than in megacities. Nevertheless, one should not be complacent. Have your passport and boarding pass ready. Considering that this is a border zone, document control here is strict for all passengers.

Seat Selection on the Plane. If possible, choose a window seat. Flights over the Kuril Ridge are a distinct adventure. You will be treated to breathtaking views of volcanoes, picturesque bays, and the Pacific Ocean, which will become one of the brightest impressions of the trip.

Hand Luggage. Standard aviation rules apply here: liquids in containers up to 100 ml packed in a transparent bag; sharp objects must be checked in as luggage. We advise taking a warm sweater or windbreaker into the cabin — even in summer, the weather can change abruptly.

Connecting Passengers. Mendeleyevo Airport is not a transit hub. The main flight direction is Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk. When planning a further route across Russia, allow sufficient time for the connection at Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk airport, ideally several hours, in case of weather-related delays.

Saving Time and Money. Air tickets to the Kurils are a scarce commodity, especially in summer. Book them well in advance. Be sure to check the baggage allowance, as on regional flights it is often less than standard. The choice of cafés in the airport itself is limited, so you may wish to bring a light snack with you.

In Case of Flight Delay. Fogs and strong winds are the main reason for flight delays and cancellations on the Kurils. This is a common occurrence for which one should be prepared. Before leaving for the airport, always check the status of your flight on the airline's website. Bring a power bank, a book, or download films to pass the waiting time. Sometimes departure may be rescheduled to the next day, so it is useful to have a small reserve of funds and contacts for local hotels.