Mary Airport

Mary Airport is not merely a regional transport hub, but a truly modern gateway to history, opening the path to the ancient secrets of the Great Silk Road. The air harbour welcomes travellers with an impressive architectural appearance that harmoniously combines advanced technologies and traditional motifs, like an oasis amidst the Karakum Desert. Here, just a few minutes' drive from the legendary Ancient Merv, begins your immersion into the unique culture and hospitality of sunny Turkmenistan.

The airport boasts a number of unique features and advantages that make it an important infrastructure facility in the region:

• Strategic Location: The airport is located in immediate proximity to the city and the region's main tourist attraction — the "Ancient Merv" archaeological park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This makes it the ideal arrival point for history enthusiasts.
• Technical Equipment: Thanks to a runway length of 3,800 metres, the airport is capable of receiving all types of aircraft, including heavy cargo and passenger liners such as the Boeing 747 and Airbus A380.
• Architectural Style: The two-storey terminal building, covering an area of about 3,500 square metres, is designed in a style characteristic of the country, using white marble and golden glazing elements, creating a majestic atmosphere.
• Developed Infrastructure: The airport complex grounds feature everything for comfort: from spacious waiting halls and VIP zones to its own hotel, which is particularly convenient for transit passengers.

Finding direct and up-to-date contacts for regional airports, such as the airport in Mary, can be challenging. Most communication and resolution of passenger issues occur through the airlines operating the flights. Nevertheless, here is the basic information:

• Official Website: At present, Mary Airport does not have a separate official website. It is recommended to check flight information on the website of the airline you are flying with.
• Inquiry Service Phone: There is no unified public inquiry number for the airport available in the public domain. For information regarding departures, arrivals, or airport services, it is best to contact your airline's representative office directly.
• Address: Mary International Airport, Mary, Turkmenistan.
• Email: A public email address for general inquiries is not provided.
• Social Media: The airport does not maintain official pages on social networks.
• Lost Luggage Information: For all questions related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact the Lost & Found service of the airline on whose flight you arrived.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Passenger support regarding booking, ticket changes, and other flight aspects is provided by the airlines.

Mary Airport (MYP) is located in immediate proximity to the city of the same name, making the journey there quick and convenient. The trip from the centre of Mary, one of the oldest cities in Turkmenistan, to the terminal usually takes no more than 15–25 minutes. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose one of several modes of transport.

Taxi — this is the most popular and comfortable way to get to the airport. You can use the services of both official taxi companies and private drivers. This is the fastest option, which is particularly convenient if you have a lot of luggage. Important recommendation: always agree on the trip cost with the driver before starting the journey to avoid inflated prices. You can also order a transfer through your hotel for greater reliability.

For budget-conscious travellers, the best choice would be public transport. City buses run between the city and the airport. This is the cheapest method, although it may require more time. It is recommended to check the current schedule and routes in advance, as they may change, and intervals between services can be quite long.

If you value independence and plan to travel around the region extensively, consider car rental. There are rental points in the city, but it is better to book a car in advance, especially during the tourist season. Mary Airport has its own parking lot where you can leave your vehicle during your absence. This is convenient for both short-term and long-term parking.

The airport of Mary city (MYP) represents a modern and compact aviation complex, which was completely reconstructed and opened in 2009. All passenger infrastructure is concentrated in one passenger terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights. Thanks to this, travellers do not need to worry about transfers between terminals — all procedures, from check-in to boarding, take place in a single building.

The terminal layout is intuitively clear. The building has a distinct division into zones. The ground floor traditionally houses check-in counters and the arrival zone with baggage claim belts. After completing check-in, passengers proceed to the first floor, where passport control and security screening points are located, leading to a spacious departure zone. Thanks to the thoughtful layout and the relatively small size of the airport, navigation causes no difficulties even for those visiting for the first time.

The departure and arrival zones are equipped with everything necessary for comfortable waiting. The departure hall features comfortable seating, small shops where you can buy souvenirs and travel goods, as well as a cafe. The arrival zone is designed so that passengers can quickly pass border control (on international flights) and collect their luggage. Clear signs in Turkmen, Russian, and English help to orientate easily.

Passing through pre-flight formalities at Mary airport usually takes little time compared to major international hubs. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance: 1.5–2 hours before a domestic flight departure and 2.5–3 hours before an international one. This time will be sufficient to calmly check in for the flight, drop off luggage, and pass all control stages without unnecessary haste. For passenger convenience, information desks operate within the terminal building, where you can always receive necessary assistance.

The history of the airport in Mary is closely linked to the development of the entire region and reflects important stages in the life of Turkmenistan. Initially, during the Soviet period, an airfield existed on this site, serving both civil and military needs, ensuring transport connections with other parts of the country. It was a key infrastructure element supporting economic activity in the oasis.

A radically new stage in the airport's history began after the country gained independence. Understanding the importance of air travel for the development of tourism and the economy, the government decided on a complete reconstruction. The culmination of this process was the opening of a new, modern international airport complex in March 2009. This event essentially became the second birth of the air harbour.

The new terminal was built taking into account international standards and is designed to serve up to 500 passengers per hour. As part of the modernisation, a runway with a length of 3,800 metres was constructed, capable of receiving heavy long-haul aircraft, including giants like the Boeing 747. The airport was equipped with modern air navigation and dispatch equipment, which allowed it to obtain international status.

One of the most interesting facts is the airport's strategic location. It serves as the main aerial gateway for tourists striving to see the ruins of the ancient city of Merv, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is located just a few dozen kilometres away. Thus, Mary Airport plays a key role not only in the country's transport system but also in the preservation and promotion of its rich historical heritage.

Mary Airport (MYP) offers passengers a modern terminal equipped with everything necessary for waiting for a flight in comfort. Before departure, you can have a snack in one of the cafes or restaurants serving dishes of both local and European cuisine. For those wishing to shop, there are stores, including a `Duty Free` zone with a wide assortment of goods.

For the convenience of travellers, the airport provides spacious waiting halls. Passengers preferring enhanced comfort can utilise the services of the `VIP Lounge`, offering a more private setting and additional services. Free `Wi-Fi` is available throughout the terminal, and numerous power outlets and charging stations allow you to stay connected at all times.

Currency exchange points and ATMs function within the terminal building, allowing you to easily resolve financial matters upon arrival or before departure. In case of need, a medical point operates around the clock at the airport, where qualified personnel are ready to provide first aid.

The airport cares for passengers with children: a special mother and child room is equipped for them, where you can feed and change a baby in a calm environment. Conditions have also been created for the comfortable movement of passengers with reduced mobility — to receive assistance, it is recommended to contact airline representatives in advance.

One of the unique features of the airport is the presence of its own hotel with 100 beds, located right on the premises. This is an ideal solution for transit passengers or those departing early in the morning. For business travellers, modern conference halls and business centres are equipped, making the airport an important transport and business hub in Turkmenistan.

When planning a departure from Mary Airport (MYP), you will be able to have a snack or a full lunch while waiting for your flight. Although the choice of establishments here is not as vast as in major international hubs, the available dining points offer everything necessary for a comfortable journey. The main options are concentrated in the main passenger terminal, making them easily accessible to all passengers.

For those wishing to experience local cuisine, it is worth paying attention to the dishes offered in the airport cafe. Here you can often order hearty plov (pilaf), rich shurpa soup, or aromatic samsa — this is an excellent choice for a full meal. If time is limited, sandwiches, fresh pastries, as well as hot and cold beverages are suitable for a quick snack. Establishments are usually located in the main, public zone of the terminal (landside), allowing even those seeing passengers off to have a bite.

Opening hours of cafes and buffets are generally tied to the flight schedule, ensuring service for passengers on morning and evening departures. Prices can be described as moderate. It is worth noting that the choice for passengers with strict dietary requirements (vegan, gluten-free) may be very limited, so it is recommended to carry suitable snacks with you. Vegetarians can find simple salads or side dishes, and most meat dishes are prepared according to Halal standards by default.

When planning a trip through the airport of Mary city, it is worth considering several points that will make your journey more comfortable and predictable. By following these simple tips, you can avoid unnecessary stress and save time.

Arrival Time: For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2.5-3 hours before departure, and for domestic ones — 1.5-2 hours. This time will be sufficient for the calm completion of all formalities, especially if you are travelling with luggage or during peak season.

Check-in and Security: Check with your airline if online check-in is available — this will help save time. Keep your passport and ticket ready at the airport. When passing security control, be prepared to remove laptops, tablets, and liquids in permitted volumes from your hand luggage. Following the rules will speed up the process for you and other passengers.

Seat Selection: If it is possible to choose a seat in advance, consider your preferences. Window seats (A, F) offer beautiful views during takeoff and landing. Aisle seats (C, D) are convenient if you plan to get up during the flight. Seats at emergency exits usually offer more legroom, but certain restrictions apply to them.

Hand Luggage: It is prohibited to carry liquids in containers exceeding 100 ml, sharp objects (scissors, knives), and flammable substances in hand luggage. It is permitted to carry documents, money, gadgets, necessary medicines (a prescription may be required), and valuables. Always check the current rules of your airline before departure.

Connecting Passengers: If you have a connecting flight, clarify in advance whether you need to collect your luggage and check it in again. Study the airport map to quickly find the terminal and boarding gate you need.

Customs Control: Upon entry and exit from Turkmenistan, it is necessary to declare all imported and exported foreign currency, as well as jewellery and other valuables. Keep the declaration until the end of your trip. Rules can be strict, so it is strongly recommended to familiarise yourself with current customs regulations in advance to avoid misunderstandings.

Saving Time and Money: To save time, check in online and travel light with only hand luggage. To save money, bring an empty reusable water bottle, which can be filled after passing security control, and light snacks.

Flight Delay: In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline's representative counter. Depending on the duration of the delay, you may be provided with drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation. Keep all receipts for unforeseen expenses to request compensation later.