Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk Airport

The Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk (Khomutovo) Airport named after A. P. Chekhov is the main air gateway of the Sakhalin Region, connecting this unique island with mainland Russia and Asian countries. It is not merely a transport hub, but a modern and dynamically developing complex that opens up the beauty of the amazing Far Eastern region to travellers. With the opening of a new terminal in 2023, the largest in the Far East, the airport offers passengers the highest level of comfort and service, serving as a vital element of federal transport infrastructure.

Features and Advantages

The airport's main pride is the new terminal complex, commissioned in August 2023. This modern terminal, covering an area of over 47,000 square metres, is capable of serving up to 5 million passengers annually, creating significant potential for tourism growth. For passenger convenience, it is equipped with six telescopic aerobridges, spacious waiting halls, 26 check-in counters, and a fully automated baggage handling system.

Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk Airport serves as a hub for Aurora airlines, which operates numerous flights across the Far East. Infrastructure modernisation, including the construction of a new runway, allows for the reception of all aircraft types, expanding the route network and opening new travel opportunities. Thanks to its high level of service and technology, this air harbour ensures a comfortable and swift start or conclusion to your journey through the Sakhalin Region.

• Official Website: airportus.ru. Here you will find the online scoreboard, flight schedule, and other important information.
• Information Desk Phone: +7 (4242) 788-390 (24 hours).
• Airport Address: Russia, Sakhalin Region, Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk, Khomutovo Airport.
• Email: For official enquiries, please use the address office@airportus.ru.
• Social Media: The airport maintains official pages on popular social networks where news and operational information are published. Look for official accounts on Telegram and VKontakte.
• Lost & Found Information: For issues regarding lost or damaged luggage, please contact the tracing service at +7 (4242) 788-323 or your airline representative at the airport.
• Passenger Support Contacts: To receive assistance, including for passengers with reduced mobility, it is recommended to contact the airport information desk or the representative office of your airline in advance.

Getting to Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk Airport (UUS) from the city centre of Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk is possible in several ways, each offering its own advantages. The airport's transport accessibility allows you to easily plan your trip according to your budget and preferences.

Public Transport is the most economical option. City buses run regularly to the airport. The main route is bus No. 63, which goes directly to the new terminal. You can also use route No. 8. The bus journey from the city centre takes on average 20–30 minutes depending on traffic conditions. The fare is minimal, making this the most budget-friendly method.

Taxi or Transfer is the ideal choice for those who value comfort and time. Popular taxi booking services operate in the city, and you can also use the services of official airport carriers. A car journey will take about 15–20 minutes. This is an especially convenient option if you are travelling with a lot of luggage or with family. It is recommended to allow extra time for the trip during peak hours.

For those who prefer maximum freedom of movement around the island, car rental is a good solution. Many rental companies offer pick-up or drop-off directly at the airport. If you are travelling in a private vehicle, parking is provided within the terminal complex area. Both short-term parking spaces for quick passenger drop-off and pick-up, and long-term parking for those leaving their car for the duration of their trip, are available.

Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk Airport (Khomutovo) welcomes and sees off passengers in a new unified passenger terminal, which opened in 2023. This modern complex serves all domestic and international flights, so travellers need not worry about moving between different buildings — all services are concentrated under one roof.

The airport layout is simple and intuitive. The Ground Floor is entirely dedicated to the arrivals area and flight check-in. Here you will find check-in counters, the baggage claim area, and exits to the city. The First Floor is the secure departure area. After passing security, passengers enter a spacious waiting lounge with boarding gates, shops, and cafes.

Since all operations take place in one terminal, transitions between zones are carried out inside the building. After checking in on the ground floor, you simply go up to the first floor to undergo pre-flight security checks. Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated by floors, eliminating confusion and making navigation as convenient as possible.

For check-in and security on domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before departure. If you have an international flight, it is better to allow about 2.5-3 hours for pre-flight formalities. The new terminal is designed for rapid passenger service, but queues are possible during peak hours and the tourist season.

The main advice for navigation is to follow the signs. All information is duplicated in Russian and English. Thanks to the thoughtful layout, it is practically impossible to get lost in the airport. If you have any questions, you can always approach the staff at the information desks located in the public area on the ground floor.

The history of Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk Airport (UUS) began immediately after the end of World War II, in 1945. It was founded on the base of the former Japanese military airfield Otomari. In the same year, the first civil flights were performed on Li-2 aircraft, connecting Sakhalin Island with the mainland by flying to Khabarovsk. This moment became the starting point for the development of civil aviation in the region.

A key stage in the development of the air harbour was 1964. A new runway with an artificial surface was commissioned, and a full-fledged air terminal was built. Thanks to this, the airport gained the ability to receive larger and more modern aircraft for that time, such as the Il-18. This significantly expanded its capabilities and increased passenger flow. It was then that the airport received its official name — Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk.

In the 1970s and 1980s, the airport continued to develop actively, mastering new types of aircraft, including the flagship of Soviet aviation, the Tu-154. The route network constantly expanded, connecting Sakhalin with major cities across the country. A landmark event was the granting of international status in 1990, which opened new horizons for travel and economic cooperation.

The recent history of the airport is marked by modernisation on an unprecedented scale. The culmination of this process was the opening in August 2023 of a new, ultra-modern terminal complex. It is one of the largest and most technologically advanced airport buildings in the Far East of Russia, designed taking into account the complex climatic and seismic conditions of the region. Its capacity is up to 5 million passengers per year.

There is also an interesting cultural fact in the airport's history. In 2019, as part of the "Great Names of Russia" national project, it was named after the great Russian writer Anton Pavlovich Chekhov, author of the famous book "Sakhalin Island". Today, A.P. Chekhov Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk Airport (Khomutovo) is not just the island's air gateway, but a strategically important transport hub playing a key role in the life of the entire region.

Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk Airport (Khomutovo) offers passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. The terminal houses cafes and restaurants where you can have a snack before departure, drink coffee, or have a full meal. For those looking for gifts or travel essentials, shops are available offering both local delicacies and necessities.

Comfortable waiting lounges are equipped for passenger relaxation. Business class passengers and loyalty programme members can use the services of the VIP lounge, offering an enhanced level of comfort. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and numerous power outlets and special charging stations allow you to always stay connected.

ATMs of several major banks and currency exchange points operate in the terminal building, which is convenient for tourists arriving in Sakhalin. In case of need, a medical centre is on duty around the clock at the airport to provide first aid.

For travellers with small children, a Mother and Child room is provided. It is equipped with changing tables, feeding areas, and a small play zone. Conditions have also been created at the airport for passengers with reduced mobility: they are provided with special escort services and assistance in passing all pre-flight formalities.

Although there are no hotels directly on the airport territory, there are many accommodation options for every taste and budget in the immediate vicinity, in the city of Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk. For business travellers, a modern conference hall suitable for meetings, negotiations, and other corporate events is equipped in the new terminal building.

At Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk Airport (UUS), travellers will find a variety of establishments to grab a snack or have a full lunch while waiting for a flight. The new terminal offers options both for those in a hurry and for those wishing to spend time in comfort.

Most establishments are located in the public area before security control. For a substantial lunch or dinner, the "Borsalino" restaurant, offering dishes of European and Russian cuisine, is an excellent choice. If you want a quick and filling snack, pay attention to the "Kroshka Kartoshka" cafe. You can have coffee with fresh pastries or dessert at the "Shokoladnitsa" chain coffee shop. These establishments are located on the ground and first floors of the terminal and are accessible to both passengers and those seeing them off.

After passing security control, in the "airside area", the selection is more compact. Here, coffee shops and small refreshment points operate, such as "Kafema", where you can order beverages, sandwiches, and light snacks. This is an ideal option to refresh yourself quickly just before boarding the plane. Vending machines operating 24/7 are also installed in both zones of the airport.

For business class passengers and loyalty card holders, the "Rodina" business lounge operates in the secure area, offering guests a buffet with snacks, hot dishes, and beverages. And to enjoy the local flavour one last time, it is worth visiting the "Sakhalin Seafood" cafe. Here you can taste authentic Sakhalin delicacies: sandwiches with red caviar, fish soup, or seafood salads. This is a wonderful opportunity to take gastronomic impressions of the island with you.

Prices in airport establishments are higher than the city average, which is standard practice. Passengers with specific dietary requirements (vegans, vegetarians) may find it challenging to find a specialised menu, however, in cafes like "Shokoladnitsa", you can always choose vegetable salads, side dishes, or fruit.

To ensure your journey through Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk Airport goes as comfortably as possible, take advantage of our tips. These simple recommendations will help save time, nerves, and even money, making the start or end of your trip pleasant.

Arrival time at the airport. Plan your arrival at the airport in advance. For domestic flights within Russia, it is recommended to allow at least 2-2.5 hours before departure. If you have an international flight, arrive 3 hours early. This time will be sufficient to check in luggage without rushing, pass security control, and find your boarding gate.

Check-in and security. The easiest way to avoid queues is to complete online check-in on the airline's website. This can be done 24 hours before departure. At the airport, you will only need to drop off your luggage at a special counter (Drop-off) or go straight to security if you are travelling with hand luggage. When passing security control, prepare your passport and boarding pass in advance, and remove all gadgets, metal objects, and liquid containers from your pockets and hand luggage.

Choosing a seat on the plane. If it is possible to choose a seat during check-in, consider your preferences. Window seats will offer you stunning views of Sakhalin Island during take-off and landing. Aisle seats are convenient if you plan to get up during the flight.

Hand luggage. Remember the general rules: liquids in containers up to 100 ml each (total volume not exceeding 1 litre per passenger) must be packed in a transparent bag. Sharp and piercing objects are prohibited. If you are carrying red caviar as a souvenir, be sure to check the rules for its carriage with the airline — often it is permitted in checked luggage in factory packaging and in limited quantities.

Passengers with transfers. If Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk is your transit point, check in advance whether your luggage will be transferred automatically or if you need to collect and re-check it. Monitor the departure boards so as not to miss the announcement for boarding your next flight.

Customs control. This procedure is relevant only for passengers on international flights. If you are flying out of the country, you may need to complete a customs declaration when carrying large sums of cash or valuable goods. There is no customs control on domestic flights.

Saving time and money. Order a taxi from the airport via online apps — this is generally more cost-effective than using private drivers on site. To avoid overpaying for water, take an empty bottle with you and fill it at a drinking fountain after the security zone.

Flight delays. If your flight is delayed, the first thing to do is contact the airline representative. Depending on the length of the delay, you are entitled to complimentary beverages, hot meals, and even hotel accommodation. Remain calm and do not hesitate to ask for information about your rights.