Turkmenbashi Airport

Turkmenbashi International Airport represents an impressive aerial gateway, opening up towards the Caspian Sea and the "Avaza" resort pearl. The terminal building, designed in the shape of a majestic falcon ready to soar into the sky, sets a special mood for travellers from the very first minutes, combining national flair with advanced technologies. This modern aviation hub not only ensures transport accessibility for the region but is a landmark in itself, delighting guests with its architectural boldness and comfort.

Airport Features and Advantages

Turkmenbashi Airport stands out among other regional air harbours with a range of unique characteristics that make it an important transport hub in Central Asia:

• Architectural Uniqueness: The main terminal is designed in the shape of a lachin (falcon) — a symbol deeply revered in Turkmen culture. This makes the air terminal one of the most beautiful and recognisable buildings in the country, providing tourists with an excellent opportunity for spectacular photos immediately upon arrival.
• Top-Class Technical Equipment: Thanks to a runway 3,800 metres long and the latest navigation equipment, the airport is capable of accepting aircraft of all types, including heavy cargo planes and giants like the Airbus A380 and An-225 "Mriya", in any weather conditions.
• Strategic Location: The airport is located just a few minutes' drive from the "Avaza" National Tourist Zone. This ensures maximum convenience for holidaymakers, allowing them to get from the aircraft steps to a beach hotel in the shortest possible time.
• Integrated Infrastructure: The complex is thought out to the smallest detail for the convenience of transit and arriving passengers. The territory features automated baggage and cargo handling systems, as well as direct access to transport interchanges connecting the airport with the city and the international sea port.

• Official Website: Currently, Turkmenbashi Airport does not have a separate official website. Up-to-date information on flights and services can be found on the portal of the national carrier "Turkmenhowayollary" (Turkmenistan Airlines): www.turkmenistanairlines.tm.
• Information Desk Phone: For information regarding flights, services, and airport operations, you can call: +993 243 2-03-22.
• Airport Address: Turkmenbashi International Airport, Turkmenbashi City, Balkan Velayat, Turkmenistan.
• Email: There is no official public email address for contacting the airport. It is recommended to use the telephone for urgent inquiries.
• Social Media: The airport does not maintain official pages on social networks. News can be tracked on the resources of "Turkmenistan Airlines".
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you must immediately contact the Lost & Found counter in the arrival hall or a representative of your airline.
• Passenger Support Contacts: All questions related to your stay at the airport can be addressed to staff at the information desks or to the inquiry service by phone.

Turkmenbashi International Airport (KRW) is located in the immediate vicinity of the city of the same name, making the journey there quick and convenient. Travellers heading to this Caspian port of Turkmenistan can choose the transfer option that suits them best. The trip from the centre of Turkmenbashi to the airport usually takes no more than 15-20 minutes.

The most budget-friendly way to get to the airport is public transport. Buses run through the city, some of which may pass near the airport. However, it is worth noting that the schedule may be irregular, and routes may change. The fare is minimal, but this option is best suited for travellers without heavy luggage and with plenty of time to spare. It is recommended to check up-to-date route information on site.

The most convenient and popular way to reach the airport is by taxi or private transfer. This is a fast and reliable option, especially if you have a lot of luggage or are departing early in the morning or late at night. The cost of the trip will be higher than by bus, but quite acceptable given the short distance. You can use official taxi services or book a transfer in advance through your hotel, which guarantees the car arrives at the right time.

If you value independence and plan to move around the region frequently, for example, to visit the "Avaza" National Tourist Zone, then car rental will be an excellent solution. Some rental companies provide vehicle delivery or return services directly at the airport. For those arriving in their own or rented car, parking is available on the airport territory where vehicles can be left.

To sum up, the choice of transport depends on your priorities. For maximum savings, the bus is suitable, but be prepared for possible inconveniences. For comfort and speed, it is best to choose a taxi or pre-booked transfer. Car rental, in turn, will provide you with complete freedom of movement throughout your journey.

Turkmenbashi International Airport (KRW) is a modern and functional aviation hub. A key feature of its structure is a single passenger terminal that serves both domestic and international flights. This significantly simplifies navigation for passengers, as there is no need to move between separate buildings.

The terminal building, opened in 2010, is known for its unique architecture — it is designed in the shape of a giant falcon (lachin) spreading its wings. Inside, the space is organised logically and intuitively. All zones are clearly marked with signs in Turkmen, Russian, and English, which helps to orient oneself easily in the airport.

The Departure Zone is located on the upper levels. Here you will find airline check-in counters, customs and passport control points, as well as pre-flight security screening. After completing all formalities, passengers enter comfortable waiting lounges with boarding gates. The Arrival Zone is located on the ground floor and includes baggage claim halls and customs control areas.

Thanks to the relatively small size of the airport and the thoughtful layout, completing all procedures usually does not take much time. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance: approximately 2-3 hours before an international flight and 1.5-2 hours before a domestic one. This time will be sufficient to calmly check in, drop off luggage, and pass through security without rushing.

To navigate the airport, simply follow the standard signs for "Departures" and "Arrivals". Since there is only one terminal, it is practically impossible to get lost. All major services — from check-in counters to boarding gates — are located within a single building, making travel through Turkmenbashi airport maximally convenient.

The history of Turkmenbashi Airport (KRW) begins in the Soviet period, when a runway and airfield were built in the city, then named Krasnovodsk. In those years, it functioned as a typical regional hub, serving mainly domestic flights and connecting the Caspian region with other parts of the republic. The infrastructure was modest and designed to accommodate the small aircraft of that time.

A new stage in the life of the air harbour began after Turkmenistan gained independence. With the renaming of the city to Turkmenbashi, the airport received not only a new name but also strategic importance. As part of the state programme to transform the country into a major transit and transport hub, a decision was made to build a modern international airport complex on its site, capable of competing with the leading aviation centres of the region.

The culmination of this large-scale project was the opening of the new international terminal in April 2010, which completely transformed the airport. One of the most interesting facts is its unique architecture: the main building resembles a giant falcon in flight, which has become the city's calling card. The terminal's throughput capacity reached 800 passengers per hour, and the new runway, 3,900 metres long, allowed for the reception of all types of aircraft, including the largest long-haul liners.

In addition to the passenger terminal, a powerful cargo complex with a capacity of up to 200,000 tonnes of cargo per year was built, which became one of the key achievements of the modernisation. Today, Turkmenbashi Airport is not just an air gateway, but an important element of the national transport system. It plays a key role in serving the "Avaza" National Tourist Zone and ensures the synergy of air, sea, and land transport in the strategically important Caspian region.

Turkmenbashi International Airport (KRW) offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. The modern terminal is designed so that your stay here is as convenient and pleasant as possible, regardless of the purpose of your trip.

For those feeling hungry, there are cafés and restaurants operating in the airport where you can have a quick snack or a full meal. Shops, including Duty Free, offer a wide selection of souvenirs, locally produced goods, perfumes, and other items that might be needed en route. This is an excellent opportunity to buy gifts for loved ones or a keepsake from your trip to Turkmenistan.

Passengers can spend time in spacious and bright waiting lounges. For travellers who value enhanced comfort, a VIP lounge is provided. Here, in a quiet atmosphere, you can relax, enjoy snacks and drinks, and utilise personal services. Wireless internet (Wi-Fi) is available throughout the terminal, and numerous charging stations allow you to stay connected at all times.

The airport features bank branches, ATMs, and currency exchange points, which is particularly convenient for international guests. In case of necessity, passengers can contact the 24-hour medical point, where first aid will be provided. A mother and child room is equipped for travellers with children, and a barrier-free environment with necessary assistance is created for passengers with reduced mobility.

For those who need to rest between flights, a modern five-star hotel is located directly on the territory of the airport complex. Delegations and business travellers have access to conference halls and business centres equipped with everything necessary for meetings and negotiations. Thus, Turkmenbashi Airport ensures a high level of service for all categories of passengers.

Turkmenbashi International Airport (KRW) offers passengers several options for a snack or a full lunch while waiting for a flight. Although the choice of establishments here is not as extensive as in major global hubs, you will be able to find cosy places to spend time comfortably before departure.

The main dining points are located in the departure zone (airside), after passing passport control and security screening. Here you will find cafés and small snack bars where you can order sandwiches, fresh pastries, salads, as well as hot and cold drinks. This is a great place to relax with a cup of coffee or traditional tea. Sometimes the menu features snacks with elements of local cuisine, providing an opportunity to get acquainted with the gastronomy of Turkmenistan.

For a quick snack, small kiosks or vending machines offering drinks, chocolate, and snacks are ideal. If you have enough time for a more substantial meal, the cafés in the sterile area offer simple hot dishes. Prices at the airport correspond to the standard for such places — they are higher than in the city but remain within reasonable limits.

Passengers with specific dietary needs, such as vegetarians or vegans, should bear in mind that the choice for them may be limited. Halal options are easier to find, but it is always better to clarify the ingredients of dishes with the staff. If you have strict dietary restrictions, it is recommended to bring suitable snacks with you.

The opening hours of most catering establishments are tied to the flight schedule. Major cafés are usually open during peak hours, serving passengers of the most popular destinations. We recommend planning time for food taking into account the need to complete all pre-flight procedures.

Travelling through Turkmenbashi city airport will be easier and more pleasant if you prepare in advance. Here are a few tips to help you orient yourself and avoid unnecessary stress at the air harbour on the shores of the Caspian Sea.

Arrival Time and Check-in. It is recommended to arrive at the airport 2.5-3 hours before international flights and 1.5-2 hours before domestic ones. This will give you enough time to calmly complete all formalities. Check with your airline about the possibility of online check-in — this will save you time at the airport. Have your passport, visa (if required), and ticket ready.

Passing Control. Security screening procedures at the airport are standard but can be quite thorough. To speed up the process, remove metal objects from your pockets, and take off your belt and outerwear in advance. Electronics (laptops, tablets) and liquids in hand luggage will need to be taken out of your bag and presented separately.

Hand Luggage. Remember the general rules: liquids are allowed in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited. Important: portable charging devices (power banks) must be carried only in hand luggage.

Customs Control. When entering and leaving Turkmenistan, pay special attention to customs regulations. All cash (both foreign and national currency) and valuables (jewellery, expensive electronics) brought in and taken out must be declared. You may take out of the country an amount not exceeding what was declared upon entry. Familiarise yourself in advance with the official list of items prohibited for import and export.

Passengers with Connections. If you have a connecting flight, clarify in advance whether you need a transit visa. Upon arrival, follow the "Transit/Transfer" signs to get to the zone for transit passengers and find the boarding gate for your next flight. If you have a long layover, find out about the availability of rest rooms or hotels at the airport.

Economy and Comfort. To save money, book tickets in advance and consider taking light snacks with you. Prices for food and drinks at airports are usually higher. Seat selection on the plane is often paid, but if you want more legroom, look for seats by the emergency exits. A window seat offers beautiful views during takeoff and landing, while an aisle seat gives you freedom of movement around the cabin.

In Case of Flight Delay. If your flight is delayed, first contact your airline representative for information. Depending on the length of the delay, you may be provided with drinks, meals, or even hotel accommodation. Keep a book, a charged power bank, or downloaded films with you to pass the waiting time.