Simferopol International Airport

This modern aviation hub serves as the main aerial gateway for travellers seeking to enjoy a holiday on the sunny peninsula. The new terminal building, famous for its unique futuristic "Crimean Wave" design, instantly sets guests in the mood for a vacation and sea breeze from the very first moments. The airport combines impressive architecture, advanced service technologies, and a high level of comfort, making the beginning and end of your trip as pleasant as possible.

Architectural uniqueness. The new terminal, opened in 2018, is a true landmark. Its facade consists of more than 130 curvilinear columns, creating the silhouette of a sea wave. Inside the building lies one of the largest walls of living plants in Europe, which, together with panoramic windows and "skylights" on the roof, creates a sense of spaciousness and freshness within.

Comfort and Service. The airport's infrastructure is thought out to the smallest detail: an outdoor terrace with a picturesque view of Mount Chatyr-Dag and the airfield is open for passengers. Spacious waiting halls are equipped with convenient navigation, and the high-speed baggage handling system (the first of its kind in the region) allows for significant time savings upon arrival and departure.

To plan your trip and promptly resolve any issues that arise, you can use the following airport contact details. It is recommended to verify the operating hours of services immediately before your trip.

• Official airport website: sipaero.ru
• Information desk phone: +7 (3652) 59-55-55 (call centre operates 24/7)
• Airport address: 295037, Simferopol, Vossoedineniya Square, 1
• Email: office@sipaero.ru (reception), feedback@sipaero.ru (for feedback)
• Airport social media: Official communities are present on VKontakte, Odnoklassniki, and Telegram (links available on the main website page).
• Lost & Found information: +7 (3652) 59-57-37, +7 (978) 914-10-19
• Passenger support service contacts: +7 (978) 914-10-19 (including assistance group for People of Determination)

The International Airport is located approximately 14 kilometres northwest of the city centre. The journey by car takes about 20–30 minutes in the absence of traffic jams, however, during the tourist season, travel time may increase. The air harbour is distinguished by excellent transport accessibility: passengers have access to a wide choice of travel methods — from the legendary Crimean trolleybuses to comfortable taxis and rental cars.

Public Transport: Famous Trolleybus and Buses

One of the region's calling cards is the unique intercity trolleybus system. The public transport stop is located in the immediate vicinity of the arrival terminal exit.

• Trolleybus: This is the most budget-friendly and eco-friendly way to get to the city. City routes run (for example, to the railway station), as well as the famous intercity lines that can take tourists directly to the coast (to Alushta or Yalta). Travel time to the railway station is about 40–50 minutes. Tickets can be purchased at ticket counters or from the driver.
• Buses and Route Taxis: A faster option compared to the trolleybus. Regular flights (for example, routes No. 49, No. 49A, No. 98, and others) connect the airport with various districts of the city, including the bus station and railway station. The interval of movement in the daytime is 10–15 minutes.

Taxi and Transfer

For those who value comfort or travel with bulky luggage, ordering a taxi will be the optimal solution. It is recommended to use the services of official carriers, whose counters are located in the arrival hall. This guarantees fixed rates and trip safety.

Mobile taxi-hailing apps operating in the region are also popular. A trip to the city centre will cost more than public transport but will save time and energy. The estimated cost of the trip varies depending on the car class and the final destination.

Car Rental

Travellers who prefer independence can rent a car right in the airport terminal building. Rental company counters are located in the arrival hall on the Ground Floor. Car rental is an ideal option for those who plan not to limit themselves to one city and want to independently explore the picturesque corners of the peninsula. It is recommended to book a car in advance, especially during the high season.

Parking at the Airport

For owners of personal vehicles, several parking zones with an automated payment system are provided on the station square:

• Short-term parking (P1, P2): Intended for picking up and dropping off passengers. The first 15 minutes of stay are usually provided free of charge, which is convenient for those seeing off or meeting travellers. Thereafter, billing is hourly.
• Long-term parking (P3): Located slightly further from the terminal and suitable for those leaving their car for several days or weeks. Rates here are calculated daily and are more favourable for long-term parking.

Currently, the handling of all flights at Simferopol International Airport is carried out in a single passenger terminal. The new airport complex, commissioned in 2018, has completely replaced the old terminals, which have now been taken out of passenger operation. This significantly simplifies logistics: travellers no longer need to look for the right building or make transfers between buildings — all necessary services are concentrated under one wave-shaped roof.

Terminal Layout and Zoning

The airport building has a clear vertical structure consisting of four floors. The space is designed so that the flows of departing and arriving passengers do not intersect:

• Ground Floor (Public Zone and Arrivals): Here you will find a spacious check-in hall with an "island" arrangement of counters, a baggage claim area, a medical centre, a pharmacy, and tourist counters. Upon exiting the arrival zone, passengers enter the general waiting hall with access to transport.
• First Floor (VIP and Service Zones): This level is reserved for service premises, as well as the VIP hall, which has a separate entrance and driveway to ensure privacy and comfort for guests.
• Second Floor (Departures and "Sterile Zone"): Passengers ascend here after check-in to undergo pre-flight security screening. Located here are boarding gates, Duty Paid shops, cafes, restaurants, and waiting lounges with a view of the apron.
• Third Floor (Comfort and Views): On the upper level, there are business lounges, a children's playground, and the jewel of the airport — an outdoor terrace with a panoramic view.

Navigation Features and Unique Landmarks

Navigation in the airport is intuitive and duplicated in several languages. The main visual landmark inside the building is the famous "Green Wall" — the largest wall of living and artificial plants inside a building in Europe. It is visible from almost any point in the check-in area and helps to unmistakably find the escalators and elevators leading to the departure zone.

For convenience of movement between floors, panoramic elevators and escalators are in operation. The entire complex is fully adapted for People of Determination, ensuring a barrier-free environment from the terminal entrance to boarding the aircraft.

Recommendations on Time and Procedures

Thanks to modern equipment and an automated baggage handling system, check-in and security procedures proceed quite quickly. However, considering the high passenger flow during the holiday season, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 2–3 hours before departure. This will allow you to calmly check in luggage, pass security control, and visit the outdoor terrace on the Third Floor to enjoy the view of Mount Chatyr-Dag before your flight.

The history of Simferopol's air harbour is a journey from a small dirt airfield to one of the most modern and technologically advanced aviation hubs in Eastern Europe. The airport's foundation date is considered to be January 21, 1936, when the Council of People's Commissars decided to create an airline connecting the capital of Crimea with Moscow. The first flights were performed in May of the same year: the flight took about 12 hours, which was a real breakthrough in travel speed for those times.

The Era of Flourishing and the "Space" Runway

In the post-war years, the popularity of the peninsula's resorts grew rapidly, requiring infrastructure expansion. In 1957, a terminal building with characteristic columns and a control tower was opened, which became the city's calling card for many years. By the early 1990s, the airport reached the peak of passenger flow of the Soviet period, receiving millions of tourists annually.

One of the most interesting pages in the airport's history is the construction of the second runway in 1982. This runway was designed and built as a backup airfield for the landing of the "Buran" spacecraft. Thanks to this, it possesses unique characteristics: its length is 3701 metres, which allows it to accept aircraft of any type without restrictions on take-off weight, including the heaviest planes in the world.

Modern History: "Crimean Wave"

A new stage of development began in the mid-2010s. The old infrastructure ceased to cope with the increased tourist flow, and a decision was made on large-scale modernization. In May 2016, the construction of a new airport complex began in an open field.

This project became a real construction record: a giant terminal with an area of more than 78,000 square metres was erected in just 22 months. The official opening of the new terminal took place on April 16, 2018, when it received its first passengers. The building, named "Crimean Wave," was designed by leading world architects and immediately won recognition, receiving prestigious awards for the best design and architectural concept.

Interesting Facts and Achievements:

• In 2019, the airport was named after the famous marine painter Ivan Aivazovsky, whose work is inextricably linked with the sea, which echoes the architecture of the new terminal.
• The airport has repeatedly been recognized as the best regional airport in terms of service level and infrastructure development rates.
• The historic building of 1957, executed in the "Stalinist Empire" style, has been preserved to this day, although it ceased to perform the functions of the main terminal, remaining an architectural monument of its era.

The infrastructure of Simferopol International Airport is designed so that passengers feel as comfortable as possible and can spend their time usefully before departure. The new terminal offers a wide range of services, from gastronomic discoveries to modern recreation areas that meet high international standards.

Restaurants, Cafes, and Shopping

The airport's gastronomic zone allows passengers to start their acquaintance with local cuisine or enjoy it one last time before departure. Various cafes and restaurants operate within the terminal, offering dishes of European, Russian, and Oriental cuisine. Here you can find both fast-food points for a quick snack on the run and cozy establishments for a leisurely lunch.

The shopping gallery deserves special attention. Travel Retail shops present a wide assortment of goods: from perfumes and accessories to unique local souvenirs. Travellers can purchase famous local grape beverages, natural cosmetics based on essential oils, herbal teas, and oriental sweets. This is a great opportunity to buy gifts for loved ones if you didn't manage to do so during your vacation.

Comfort and Business Services

For those who value privacy and a high level of service, lounges of increased comfort are located on the Third Floor of the terminal:

• Business Lounge: Offers a buffet, soft and hot drinks, fresh press, a shower room, and work zones. Panoramic windows offer a view of the terminal's interior space and the airfield.
• VIP Lounge: Located in a separate wing on the First Floor, it has a separate entrance and driveway for cars. Guests are provided with individual check-in, meeting rooms, and transfer to the aircraft board on premium transport.

Connectivity and Finance

Free high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. For the convenience of passengers, a large number of charging stations are provided in the waiting halls: blocks with sockets and USB ports are integrated directly into the seats, allowing you to charge gadgets without leaving your boarding place.

ATMs and payment terminals of major banks operating in the region are located in the public area on the Ground Floor. Passengers can withdraw cash or pay for services. It is recommended to have a "Mir" payment system card or cash with you.

For Passengers with Children

Simferopol Airport pays special attention to little travellers. A cozy Mother and Child Room is equipped on the First Floor, featuring a kitchen, a bedroom with cribs, changing tables, and a play area (the service is provided free of charge to passengers with preschool children and pregnant women in the second half of their term). In addition, a large children's playground is located in the "sterile" departure zone on the Third Floor, which will help brighten up the wait for the flight.

Accessible Environment and Medicine

The terminal is fully adapted for servicing People of Determination. The building is equipped with ramps, wide elevators, special restrooms, and tactile navigation. The support service for passengers with reduced mobility operates round the clock and helps to pass all pre-flight formalities free of charge — from the entrance to the airport terminal to boarding the aircraft seat (it is recommended to book the service in advance). Also, a medical unit operates 24/7 on the Ground Floor to provide first aid.

Accommodation Near the Airport

There is no capsule hotel directly inside the passenger terminal. However, thanks to the close proximity to the city, passengers can use hotels within a radius of 2–5 kilometres. The nearest hotels and guest houses are located in the Aeroflotsky settlement (within walking distance or 5 minutes by taxi) and at the entrance to Simferopol. This is a convenient option for those who have an early departure or a long layover.

A gastronomic journey through Crimea can begin — or tastefully end — right in the terminal of Simferopol Airport. The catering zone here is designed to satisfy the needs of the most diverse passengers: from gourmets wishing to taste Black Sea delicacies one last time, to families with children who need a quick and hearty lunch.

Zoning: Where to Find Food

Catering establishments are located both in the public zone and in the "sterile" zone after passing security screening.

• Public Zone (Ground Floor): Here the choice is limited to small coffee shops and snack points. This is an ideal place to grab a cup of coffee to go or have a snack with a sandwich immediately after arrival or before check-in. They are located near waiting areas and ticket counters.
• Departure Zone (Second and Third Floors): The main food court and restaurants are located here, already after passing pre-flight control. The spacious gallery overlooking the apron and airfield offers the greatest variety of flavours.

Options for a Full Lunch

If you have time before boarding, it is worth going up to the Second Floor. A conceptual market restaurant operates here, working on a "buffet line" system or free choice of dishes (free-flow format). This is an excellent option for those who want to see the food before buying.

• Menu: Homemade cuisine, soups, hot meat and fish dishes, side dishes, and fresh pastries.
• Atmosphere: Quick service and a democratic environment suitable for lunch with children.

Also, restaurants with à la carte service are located in the departure zone. Here you can order dishes of European cuisine, pizza, pasta, or steaks, enjoying a panoramic view of taking-off planes.

Local Flavour: What to Try

Simferopol Airport supports the image of the gastronomic gates of the peninsula. Many establishments include local specialties in their menus that are worth trying:

• Local Beverages: Specialised lounges and restaurants feature a wide list of beverages from local producers — from famous fortified beverages to signature options from small producers.
• Black Sea Cuisine: Pay attention to dishes made from local fish (red mullet, horse mackerel) or Black Sea mussels, if they are on the seasonal menu.
• Oriental Sweets: Baklava, Turkish delight, and other traditional desserts of the region are often offered with tea or coffee.

Quick Snacks and Fast Food

For those in a hurry, popular fast-food chains are represented at the food court. Here you can find:

• Burger Joints: A classic set of burgers, fries, and carbonated drinks.
• Baked Potato: A popular chain offering hearty baked potatoes with various fillings — a hot and convenient option for a snack.
• Coffee Shops: Numerous points offer signature coffee, herbal Crimean teas, fresh croissants, and desserts.

Dietary Nutrition and Special Requests

Although specialised vegan or Halal restaurants are not explicitly highlighted in the terminal, the variety of the menu allows you to select suitable dishes:

• For Vegetarians and Vegans: Free-flow establishments always have a large selection of vegetable salads, side dishes (buckwheat, rice, stewed vegetables), and fruits. In coffee shops, you can find sugar-free desserts or those made with plant-based milk (check availability with the barista).
• Halal and Gluten-free: There may not be specific menu labelling, but the availability of dishes made from chicken, fish, and beef, as well as gluten-free side dishes (rice, potatoes), allows you to assemble a suitable meal. It is recommended to clarify the composition of dishes with the staff.

Prices and Opening Hours

The average bill in airport establishments is traditionally higher than in the city. A light snack with coffee will cost approximately 500–700 rubles, and a full lunch for one person — from 1000–1500 rubles.

Most main cafes and restaurants in the "sterile" zone operate round the clock or adjust to the flight schedule, so hot food is available even to passengers of night flights. Shops with local delicacies are also open during hours of active flights.

To ensure your journey begins or ends as comfortably as possible, we have prepared a list of practical recommendations. Simferopol International Airport is a modern and high-tech complex, but knowing some nuances will help you save time and avoid unnecessary stress.

Optimal Arrival Time

In the high tourist season (from May to September), passenger traffic increases significantly. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2.5–3 hours before departure. This will allow you to check in luggage without haste, pass security control, and perhaps drink coffee with a view of the mountains. Also consider the traffic situation: traffic jams at the exit from Simferopol or on the "Tavrida" highway can increase travel time.

Check-in and Security Control

Save time by completing online check-in on your airline's website or via a mobile app. Self-service check-in kiosks (Self Check-in) are also installed in the terminal. At security control, requirements are standard but strict: be prepared to remove outerwear, belts, and watches, as well as take laptops and tablets out of your bag. To avoid holding up the line, move small change and keys from your pockets to your carry-on luggage in advance.

Choosing a Seat on the Plane: Views Outside the Window

A flight to or from Crimea is a separate excursion. During online check-in, try to choose a Window seat. Upon approach for landing or takeoff, stunning views of the azure sea surface, mountain ranges, and the famous White Rock often open up. In clear weather, you can make out the whimsical outlines of the coastline.

Carry-on Luggage: Attention to Souvenirs

The main rule for tourists leaving the peninsula: local beverages and honey are considered liquids. If you are bringing a bottle of famous local beverage, a jar of mountain honey, or fig jam with a volume of more than 100 ml as a gift, they must be packed in checked luggage. In carry-on luggage, these items will be confiscated by security. You can take liquids into the cabin only in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag.

Tips for Transit Passengers

Since the airport has one compact terminal, transfers here take place as comfortably as possible. If you have a single ticket, luggage will be transferred automatically. If you are flying with different airlines on separate tickets, allow at least 3 hours for the transfer: you will have to collect your luggage, go out into the public zone, and undergo the check-in and screening procedure for the next flight again.

Saving Time and Money

• Luggage Wrapping: If you want to save money, you can wrap your suitcase yourself at home or use reusable protective covers. Wrapping services at the airport are paid and may cost more than the city average.
• Food and Water: Prices in cafes in the "sterile zone" are traditionally higher than in the city. To save money, you can bring an empty bottle and fill it with water from drinking fountains after passing security (if available) or take a light snack (nuts, dried fruits, sandwiches) in your carry-on luggage.
• Souvenirs: Buy gifts in advance at the resorts. The selection at the airport is large, but prices for cosmetics, sweets, and souvenir products may be higher.

If the Flight is Delayed

In case of a flight delay, do not panic. Simferopol Airport boasts one of the best waiting areas. Go up to the Third Floor to the outdoor terrace: fresh air and a view of Mount Chatyr-Dag will help you relax. If you are traveling with children, visit the playground in the departure zone. Also remember your rights: in case of a long delay, the airline is obliged to provide drinks and hot meals.

Customs Nuances

If your flight involves crossing state borders or customs zones, study the rules for declaring currency and cultural valuables in advance. Particular attention should be paid to art objects or antiques purchased at local flea markets — export permits may be required for them.