Khujand Airport

Khujand International Airport (LBD) is not merely a transport hub but a true aerial gateway to the Sughd Region of Tajikistan. As the second busiest airport in the country, it plays a key role in connecting the northern region with other nations. The terminal building, originally constructed during the Soviet era and subsequently modernized, features impressive architecture reminiscent of a palace. Located in the satellite city of Buston, the airport serves as the main arrival point for travellers heading to ancient Khujand and its picturesque surroundings.

Despite its relatively small size, Khujand Airport offers passengers all the necessary services for a comfortable wait. The single terminal houses cafes, shops, including **Duty Free**, and luggage storage. For passengers with children, a mother and child room is provided, while more demanding travellers can utilize the VIP lounge featuring a winter garden and complimentary Wi-Fi. The airport's technical capabilities allow it to handle various types of aircraft, ensuring stable air connections. Although direct public transport connections to the city are limited, the centre of Khujand can always be reached quickly by taxi; the trip takes about 20 minutes.

For the most up-to-date information regarding flights, services, and regulations at Khujand Airport (LBD), we recommend using the official contact details.

• Official Website: sogdairport.com
• Help Desk Phone: +992 (3422) 6-56-56
• Address: Tajikistan, Sughd Region, Buston (Khujand Airport)
• Email: info@sogdairport.com
• Social Media: Official pages can be found on the airport website, for example, on Facebook.
• Lost & Found: For baggage tracing inquiries, please contact the Lost & Found service upon arrival or call the airport information desk.
• Passenger Support: For general questions and assistance, please contact the help desk at the phone number listed above.

Khujand Airport (LBD) is located close to the city, approximately 11 kilometres southeast of the centre, making the journey quick and convenient. The most popular and comfortable way to travel from the city to the airport or vice versa is by taxi. The trip from the centre of Khujand to the terminal takes on average 15–25 minutes depending on traffic, and the cost is usually 30–50 Somoni. You can use local taxi fleets or order a car via mobile apps operating in Tajikistan. To avoid misunderstandings, it is recommended to agree on the price with the driver in advance or use apps with fixed fares.

For budget travellers, there is the option of public transport. You can reach the airport by city buses and fixed-route taxis (marshrutkas). This is the most economical method — the trip will cost approximately 2-3 Somoni. However, it may not be very convenient if you have bulky luggage. Marshrutkas are often crowded, and their schedules can be irregular, so it is worth allowing extra time for the journey. It is best to check route numbers and current fares with locals or at the bus stop.

If you value independence and plan to actively explore the surroundings, consider car rental. This will provide you with maximum freedom of movement. Rental company counters may be located directly at the airport, but to guarantee the availability of a suitable vehicle, it is better to book online in advance. For those arriving at the airport in their own or a rented car, parking is available on the premises. There are zones for both short-term parking (for dropping off and picking up passengers) and long-term vehicle storage.

Another convenient option is to book a private transfer in advance. This service is often provided by hotels and can also be arranged through specialized online services. A transfer is particularly convenient for families with children, large groups, or passengers arriving on night flights. The driver will meet you with a name sign in the arrivals hall and help carry your luggage to the car, making the start of your journey as comfortable as possible.

Khujand Airport (LBD) is a compact and modern aviation hub serving both domestic and international flights. Its structure is simple and intuitive: the airport consists of one main passenger terminal, which significantly simplifies navigation for travellers. You won't have to worry about complex transfers or searching for the right building — everything is located under one roof.

The terminal is functionally divided into departure and arrival zones. The ground floor traditionally houses check-in counters, the arrivals area with baggage claim belts, and customs control. The first floor is dedicated to the departure zone, where passengers undergo pre-flight security checks, passport control (for international flights), and wait for boarding in comfortable lounges.

The airport layout is logical and easy to navigate. Upon entering the building, you immediately find yourself in the main hall with check-in counters. Signs are generally in Tajik, Russian, and English, making it easy to find your way. Since there is only one terminal, moving between zones (for example, from check-in to security) takes just a few minutes on foot.

Completing all formalities at Khujand Airport is usually faster than in major metropolises. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance: approximately 2–2.5 hours before an international flight and 1.5–2 hours before a domestic one. This time will be sufficient to check in luggage, pass security screening, and clear customs procedures without rushing.

The main advice for navigation is to follow the signs and information boards. Airport staff are also always ready to help and provide directions. Thanks to the terminal's compact size, getting lost here is practically impossible, making the start and end of your journey through hospitable Tajikistan as comfortable as possible.

The history of Khujand International Airport (LBD) reflects the development path of the entire northern region of Tajikistan. The airport was founded in 1960 and initially functioned as an important transport hub of the Soviet era, providing air connections for the residents of the densely populated Fergana Valley. In its first decades, it mainly served domestic flights, linking the north of the Tajik SSR with Dushanbe, Moscow, and other major cities of the USSR.

The period following the collapse of the Soviet Union was a time of challenges, but also new opportunities. With the growth of the region's economic and tourism significance, there was an urgent need to modernize the air harbour. The old terminal and infrastructure no longer met modern requirements, which prompted the start of a large-scale reconstruction.

A key stage in the airport's recent history was the major reconstruction completed in 2015. Within the framework of this project, a new passenger terminal meeting international standards was built and commissioned. Its capacity increased significantly, and comfortable waiting lounges, modern check-in systems, and baggage handling facilities were introduced. In parallel, the runway and navigation equipment were modernized, allowing the airport to handle larger aircraft types and enhance flight safety.

Today, Khujand Airport serves as the modern and dynamically developing aerial gateway of the Sughd Region. It plays a strategic role in the development of tourism and business ties in the region. From a simple airfield built over half a century ago, it has transformed into a full-fledged international airport that serves hundreds of thousands of passengers annually, connecting ancient Khujand with cities near and far.

Khujand International Airport (LBD) provides passengers with all necessary services for a comfortable wait. Before departure, you can grab a bite at a cafe serving light snacks and beverages or visit the shops. The airport features a Duty Free store with a standard assortment of perfumes, confectionery, and sweets, as well as souvenir stalls where you can purchase memorable gifts and local handicrafts.

For those who value enhanced comfort, a VIP lounge is available at the airport. Here, you can relax in a quiet atmosphere while enjoying refreshments and snacks. Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and special charging stations are equipped for gadgets so you can always stay connected.

Practical matters can also be easily resolved at Khujand Airport. Currency exchange points and ATMs are at your service for withdrawing local currency — Somoni. A 24-hour medical point is available for first aid. Passengers with small children can use the mother and child room. The airport also has facilities for travellers with reduced mobility — it is recommended to contact your airline representative in advance for assistance.

It is worth noting that the airport does not have its own hotels or specialized business centres and conference halls. The nearest hotels and venues for business meetings are located directly in the city of Khujand, which can be quickly reached by taxi. This is a convenient option for those arriving late in the evening or planning business events.

At Khujand Airport (LBD), the selection of dining establishments is quite modest, which is typical for regional airports. Nevertheless, passengers can find a few options here to have a snack before departure or drink a coffee while waiting for a flight. The main food outlets are located in the main terminal building.

As a rule, a small cafe operates in the public zone (landside) before passport control and security screening. Here you can order hot and cold beverages, pastries, sandwiches, and light snacks. This is the best place for those who have time for a more relaxed wait. In the sterile departure zone (airside), after all formalities, there is usually a small bar or buffet offering quick snacks and drinks that you can take on board if permitted by the airline.

regarding the menu, it mainly consists of standard offerings: tea, coffee, juices, water, as well as pastries such as sambusa (local savoury pastries), cakes, and sandwiches. Do not expect a full hot meal with multiple courses. Options for passengers with strict dietary restrictions (vegan, gluten-free dishes) are practically absent, so if you have special needs, it is recommended to bring food with you. Prices at the airport are generally higher than in establishments within Khujand city.

Most establishments operate according to the flight schedule — they open a few hours before the first departure and close after the last one leaves. For a quick bite, the bar in the departure zone is suitable, but if you want to drink coffee and eat something more substantial in a quiet atmosphere, it is better to use the cafe in the main hall before passing through control.

Khujand Airport serves as the main aerial gateway to the Sughd Region of Tajikistan. Although it is not among the gigantic international hubs, knowing a few simple rules will help make your journey through it as comfortable and predictable as possible.

When to arrive at the airport?
For international flights, the standard recommendation is to arrive 2.5-3 hours before departure. For domestic flights, 1.5-2 hours is sufficient. This time will be enough to complete all formalities without rushing, even if there are small queues.

Check-in and Security Control
Procedures at Khujand Airport are standard but can be quite thorough. If your airline offers online check-in, be sure to use it — this will save time. Have your passport and boarding pass ready in advance. During security screening, be prepared to remove all electronics and liquids from your hand luggage.

Seat Selection
If you are flying during the day, try to get a window seat. Flights over Tajikistan are often accompanied by breathtaking views of mountain ranges. If the ability to get up and move around freely is more important to you, choose an aisle seat.

Hand Luggage Rules
The main restrictions are standard for most airports globally. Liquids (perfumes, creams, drinks) can be carried in containers of no more than 100 ml each, packed in a single transparent bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited in the cabin. Always check the exact hand luggage rules on your airline's website, as they may differ slightly.

Connecting Passengers
Khujand Airport is not a major transit hub, so long layovers here are rare. However, if you have a transfer planned, key advice — clarify all details with your airline in advance. It is important to find out if you need to collect your luggage and check in for the next flight again. This is especially relevant when changing from an international flight to a domestic one, as repeated passport and customs control may be required.

Customs Control
When departing the country, pay attention to customs regulations. If you are carrying an amount exceeding the established limit, it must be declared. The "Red Channel" is designed for this. If you have nothing to declare, feel free to go through the "Green Channel". When purchasing antiques or handmade carpets, be sure to keep receipts and obtain an export permit to avoid problems at customs.

Saving Time and Money
To save time, complete online check-in and travel with hand luggage only if possible. To save money, order a taxi through official apps or the counter at the airport, rather than from private drivers. It is better to exchange currency in advance at city banks — the exchange rate at the airport is usually less favourable.

If Your Flight is Delayed
In case of a flight delay, remain calm. First, find the information board and check the current status of your departure. Then contact your airline's representative counter for information on the reasons for the delay and your rights. Depending on the length of the wait, the airline is obliged to provide drinks, meals, and for long delays — hotel accommodation.