Kulyab Airport

Kulyab International Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a true aerial gateway to the heart of the Khatlon Region, the most populous province of Tajikistan. Located in a picturesque valley at the foot of the mountains, it welcomes travellers with a cosy atmosphere and a modern terminal, which became a symbol of the city's renewal in the early 21st century. For many tourists, this is where their acquaintance with ancient fortresses, mausoleums, and the hospitality of southern Tajikistan begins, bypassing the hustle and bustle of the capital.

Compactness and Speed. Kulyab Airport compares favourably to large hubs due to its small size, which is a significant advantage. There are practically no long queues here, and the journey from the terminal entrance to the check-in counter takes just a few minutes. This allows passengers to complete all formalities without unnecessary stress or haste.

Strategic Location. Situated just a few kilometres from the city centre, the airport offers excellent transport accessibility. Travellers do not need to spend hours on transfers — a taxi will take you to any hotel in Kulyab in 10-15 minutes. Furthermore, the airport serves as a convenient starting point for trips to neighbouring districts and attractions of the Khatlon Region, such as the Mausoleum of Mir Said Ali Hamadoni.

Modernisation and Comfort. Following a large-scale reconstruction carried out in the 2000s, the airport received an extended runway and a renovated terminal complex. Today, it is capable of receiving modern aircraft, ensuring reliable air connections, predominantly with cities in Russia. From the terminal windows and the aircraft steps, stunning views of the mountain ranges open up, which are particularly beautiful at sunrise and sunset.

• Official Website: Currently, Kulyab Airport does not have a separate official website. It is recommended to check flight information on the websites of airlines operating flights to Kulyab.
• Inquiry Service Phone: +992 (3322) 2-24-81, +992 (3322) 2-27-09. It is recommended to call during working hours for up-to-date information.
• Address: Airport, Kulyab City, Khatlon Region, Republic of Tajikistan.
• Email: An official email address for general inquiries is not published. It is recommended to use the telephone for communication.
• Social Media: The airport does not have official pages on social networks. News and schedule changes should be tracked on the resources of air carriers.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, you should contact the representative office of the airline you flew with directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For consultations and assistance regarding airport services, please call the main inquiry service number.

Getting to Kulyab Airport (TJU) from the city of the same name is quite simple, as it is located very close to the central districts. The trip will not take much time, and the choice of transport depends on your budget and comfort preferences. Kulyab is one of the oldest cities in Tajikistan, and the airport's transport accessibility makes it a convenient gateway for exploring the region.

Public Transport. The most budget-friendly way to get to the airport is to use city marshrutkas (minibuses). Although they do not have a strict schedule, they run quite frequently throughout the day. This is a good option for travellers with light luggage, but may not be very convenient if you have a lot of bags. It is best to verify the stop for the required route with local residents.

Taxi and Transfer. The most convenient and fastest way to reach the airport is by taxi. The trip from the city centre will take just 10–15 minutes. Both official taxi services and private drivers operate in the city. It is strongly recommended to agree on the fare in advance to avoid misunderstandings. For greater peace of mind, you can pre-book a private transfer, which will meet you at a designated location and deliver you directly to the terminal.

Car Rental and Parking. If you are travelling around the country in a rental car, getting to the airport will be effortless. The road is well-marked, and navigation systems easily plot the route. Kulyab Airport provides parking where you can leave your car for both short and long periods. Renting a car offers freedom of movement and the opportunity to explore the surroundings at your own pace.

The Kulyab Airport (TJU) is a modern and compact terminal complex designed with passenger comfort in mind. Its structure is simple and clear, allowing even first-time visitors to orient themselves easily.

The air terminal consists of one passenger terminal that serves both domestic and international flights. Thanks to this, you do not have to worry about long transfers between different buildings — all necessary zones are under one roof. The terminal layout is intuitive: after entering, you immediately find yourself in the general hall, where check-in counters and information boards are located.

Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated to optimise passenger flows. After checking in for the flight and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed to pre-flight security and passport control, after which they enter the departure lounge with several boarding gates. The arrival zone is located separately and includes border control counters and baggage claim belts.

One of the main advantages of Kulyab Airport is the speed of completing all formalities. Due to the small size of the terminal and the efficient work of the staff, check-in and security checks usually take significantly less time than in major international hubs. As a rule, arriving at the airport 2-2.5 hours before an international flight will be more than sufficient for a calm passage through all procedures. Navigating the terminal is easy — simply follow the signs that will guide you from the entrance to the aircraft steps.

The history of the airport in the city of Kulyab began in the Soviet era, when a small airfield was founded in the 1960s to serve local airlines. Its main task was to ensure transport accessibility for remote districts of the Khatlon Region and connection with Dushanbe. For decades, it functioned as an important regional hub, servicing small aviation aircraft such as the An-2 and Yak-40.

A key stage in the airport's development was the 1990s. During this challenging period, it acquired strategic importance, performing vital logistical and transport functions. Later, in the early 2000s, thanks to its geographical position, the airport was used as a transit point for humanitarian cargo and support for international missions in neighbouring Afghanistan. It was then that the need for its radical modernisation arose.

Large-scale reconstruction began in the 2000s. As part of the modernisation, the runway was completely overhauled and extended, allowing it to receive larger modern aircraft such as the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320. The culmination of this process was the opening of a new international terminal in 2006, after which Kulyab Airport officially received international status. This event opened a new chapter in its history, allowing for direct air connections with cities in Russia and other countries.

Interesting fact: Kulyab Airport became one of the four international airports in Tajikistan and the key aerial gateway for the entire Khatlon Region. Today, it continues to play an important role in the economic and social life of the region, ensuring both passenger and cargo transport and promoting the development of tourism and business ties.

Kulyab International Airport (TJU) provides passengers with all the essential services necessary for a comfortable wait before departure. Despite its compact size, the terminal is thoughtfully designed for the convenience of travellers setting off on a journey across Tajikistan or beyond its borders.

While waiting for a flight, passengers can have a snack at the café located in the terminal building, which offers light refreshments, pastries, and beverages. Small shops also operate on the premises, where you can purchase souvenirs, travel essentials, and local products.

A general waiting hall is equipped for the convenience of travellers. Passengers who value enhanced comfort can use the services of the VIP Hall, which offers a more private and quiet atmosphere. Wi-Fi is available at the airport, and special sockets and charging stations are provided for recharging electronic devices.

Bank branches and currency exchange points function within the terminal, allowing passengers to handle financial matters right on the spot. In case of feeling unwell or the need for medical advice, a medical point operates around the clock at the airport, ready to provide first aid.

The airport cares for passengers with special needs. A mother and child room is provided for families with small children. Travellers with reduced mobility are offered all necessary assistance, including accompaniment through the terminal and during boarding.

There are no specialised business centres or conference halls at the airport; however, business travellers can use the VIP Hall to work in silence. There are also no hotels within the airport complex, but various accommodation options can easily be found in the city of Kulyab itself, located a few kilometres from the airport.

When planning a departure from Kulyab Airport (TJU), it is important to consider that this is a small regional airport, and the choice of catering establishments here is quite limited. Do not expect a wide variety of restaurants or cafés as in major international hubs. Typically, all available options are located in the general waiting hall before the security zone.

Usually, a small buffet or café operates in the terminal building, offering a basic assortment for a snack. Here you can buy beverages (tea, coffee, water, juice) as well as light snacks. In terms of food, you can most often find fresh pastries, such as sambusa (local pies with meat or pumpkin), sandwiches, or rolls. This is a good option to quickly satisfy your hunger before a flight, but not for a full lunch or dinner.

Specialised dietary dishes, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options, will likely be hard to find. Halal dishes are generally the standard given the traditions of Tajikistan, but it is better to clarify ingredients on the spot. Café opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule, so it may be closed at night or between departures.

Our main recommendation: if you wish to have a full meal, it is better to do so in advance. Have lunch or dinner at one of the numerous establishments in Kulyab itself before travelling to the airport. This will allow you to enjoy local cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere and at more affordable prices.

To ensure your journey through Kulyab Airport goes as smoothly as possible, make use of our tips. This is a small regional airport, but knowing a few nuances will help save time and nerves.

Arrival Time: For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2.5-3 hours before departure, and for domestic flights — 1.5-2 hours. This time is sufficient to complete all pre-flight formalities without haste, even if queues form at the check-in counters.

Check-in and Control: Check-in and security procedures at Kulyab Airport are standard. Have your passport and ticket ready (in printed or electronic form). To speed up passing through security control, remove metal objects, belts, and outerwear from your pockets in advance.

Hand Luggage: You are permitted to take documents, money, gadgets, necessary medicines, and a small bag with personal items into the aircraft cabin. Remember the standard restrictions: liquids can be carried in containers of no more than 100 ml (with a total volume of up to 1 litre), while sharp objects (knives, scissors) and flammable substances are strictly prohibited. Always check the hand luggage allowance on your airline's website.

Seat Selection: If you want to enjoy views of the picturesque landscapes of Tajikistan during take-off and landing, choose a window seat. If freedom of movement and the ability to stretch your legs are more important to you, an aisle seat is more suitable.

Customs Control: When entering or leaving the country, be prepared to declare large amounts of cash or valuable goods. There are restrictions on the export of items of cultural and historical value. We recommend familiarising yourself with current customs regulations in advance.

Saving Time and Money: If possible, complete online check-in for your flight — this will save time at the airport. Flight tickets are cheaper when purchased in advance. Food and beverages at the airport may be more expensive than in the city, so you can have a snack before arriving or bring permitted snacks with you.

Flight Delays and Transfers: In case of a flight delay, first contact your airline representative at the airport. Depending on the length of the wait, you may be provided with beverages, meals, or even hotel accommodation. Passengers with transfers should clarify in advance whether they need to collect luggage and check in for the next flight again, as Kulyab Airport is most often a final destination rather than a transit hub.