Nukus Airport

Nukus Airport (NCU) serves as the main air gateway to the Republic of Karakalpakstan, an autonomous republic in northwestern Uzbekistan. This international airport is a key transport hub for travellers seeking to discover the region's unique treasures. It is the starting point for journeys to the world-renowned Savitsky Museum of Art, often referred to as the "Louvre in the Desert," as well as tours to the receding Aral Sea. The airport plays a vital role in connecting the region with Tashkent, Moscow, and other cities.

Nukus Airport is equipped with a single 3,000-metre runway capable of handling modern aircraft, including the Airbus A320 and Boeing 767. The passenger terminal, which has undergone reconstruction, offers basic amenities necessary for a comfortable wait. Although the airport is not large, its compactness and convenient location just a few minutes' drive from the city centre make it an excellent starting point for exploring this amazing and distinctive land.

• Official Website: Like other airports in the country, Nukus Airport is managed by Uzbekistan Airports. Up-to-date information can be found on their unified portal: www.uzairports.com.
• Information Desk Phone: For inquiries regarding flight schedules and other information, you can contact the numbers: +998 (61) 222-26-42, +998 (61) 222-28-56.
• Airport Address: Republic of Karakalpakstan, Nukus, A. Dosnazarov St., 161.
• Email: A dedicated email address for general inquiries is generally not published. It is recommended to use the feedback form on the official Uzbekistan Airports website.
• Social Media: Follow news and updates on the official Uzbekistan Airports social media pages, links to which can be found on their website.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of lost or damaged luggage, you should first contact your airline representative. You can also contact the airport's luggage tracing service via the general information phone number.
• Passenger Support Service: For assistance and consultation at the airport, please visit the information desk or call the inquiry numbers: +998 (61) 222-26-42, +998 (61) 222-28-56.

Nukus Airport (NCU) is located just a few kilometres north of the centre of Nukus, making the journey there quick and convenient. You can reach the terminal in several ways, suitable for any budget and travel style.

Public Transport. The most economical way to get to the airport is by using city buses or fixed-route taxis (marshrutkas). The fare is usually around 2,000 – 3,000 UZS. The trip from the city centre takes approximately 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic. This is a great option for those travelling light and looking to save money. We recommend checking the current route numbers and schedules on-site, as they may change.

Taxi and Transfer. The most comfortable and fastest option is a taxi. The ride from the city centre to the airport takes only 10–15 minutes. The cost of a trip via online ordering services popular in Uzbekistan typically ranges from 15,000 to 30,000 UZS, allowing you to know the price in advance. You can also use official taxi services at the terminal exit. Important tip: if you hail a car on the street, always agree on the price with the driver before starting the journey.

Car Rental and Parking. If you prefer to move around independently, you can rent a car. This is particularly convenient for those planning to explore the surroundings, such as Muynak and the Ustyurt Plateau. For those arriving at the airport in a private or rented car, parking is provided in the adjacent area.

The airport of Nukus (NCU) is a compact and convenient aviation hub serving the capital of Karakalpakstan, an autonomous republic within Uzbekistan. The airport complex consists of one main terminal that handles both domestic and international flights. Thanks to this, passengers do not need to worry about transferring between different buildings — all procedures take place in one location.

The structure of the terminal is intuitive. Inside, it is divided into two main zones: the departure zone and the arrival zone. Typically, they are located on the same level, making navigation extremely simple. Check-in counters, security checkpoints, the waiting area, and boarding gates are situated in a logical sequence. For passenger convenience, signs in Uzbek, Russian, and English are installed throughout.

Completing pre-flight formalities at Nukus Airport usually does not take much time. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive 1.5-2 hours before departure, and for international flights — 2.5-3 hours. This time is sufficient to check in for the flight, drop off luggage, and pass through security and passport control without rushing.

Due to the small size of the terminal, getting lost here is practically impossible. All key zones are within walking distance of each other. Even if you are arriving in Nukus for the first time, you will easily orient yourself and quickly find the exit to the city, the taxi stand, or the transfer meeting area.

The history of Nukus Airport (NCU) began in the 1960s, when it was established as a small airfield to serve local airlines. During the Soviet period, its main task was to ensure transport connections for the remote and difficult-to-access Karakalpak ASSR with other cities of the republic. Initially, it was designed to accommodate small aircraft, such as the An-24, and played a modest but important role in regional infrastructure.

A key stage in the development of the air harbour occurred during the period of Uzbekistan's independence. In 2004, a large-scale reconstruction was carried out: a new, modern terminal was built, and the runway was lengthened and strengthened. These changes allowed the airport to accept medium-class aircraft, including the Boeing 757 and Airbus A320, significantly expanding its capabilities and opening new prospects for the region.

An important achievement was the assignment of international status to the airport in 2011. This event officially placed Nukus on the global air transport map. Subsequent years were also marked by modernization: in 2017-2018, another reconstruction of the runway was carried out, and new lighting and radio navigation equipment were installed. Thanks to this, the airport gained the ability to receive and dispatch flights in difficult weather conditions and at night, increasing flight safety and regularity.

Today, Nukus Airport is not just a transport hub, but a strategically important facility contributing to the economic and tourism development of the Republic of Karakalpakstan. It serves as the main air gateway for travellers wishing to see the famous Savitsky Museum of Art, as well as the unique landscapes of the dried-up Aral Sea. The history of the airport is a vivid example of how a modest regional airfield transformed into a modern international complex meeting all contemporary requirements.

Nukus Airport (NCU), as the main air gateway of the Republic of Karakalpakstan, offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its compact size, the terminal is designed to ensure convenience on both domestic and international lines.

Dining and Shopping. There are several catering points in the terminal building where you can have a snack before departure or drink coffee. Passengers can purchase souvenirs reflecting the culture of Uzbekistan and Karakalpakstan, as well as essential goods in small shops.

Lounges and Comfort. Standard waiting halls are available for all passengers. Additionally, the airport features a VIP lounge offering a higher level of comfort, a quieter atmosphere, and individual service. For the convenience of travellers, free Wi-Fi and mobile device charging stations are available throughout the terminal.

Financial and Medical Services. The terminal houses ATMs and currency exchange points, which is particularly convenient for international tourists. In case of need, a medical point operates around the clock at the airport, where qualified personnel are ready to provide first aid.

Services for Special Categories of Passengers. The airport is equipped for the needs of passengers with children — there is a mother and child room. For people with limited mobility, a barrier-free environment has been created, and escort services are provided. It is recommended to notify the airline in advance regarding the need for special assistance.

Accommodation and Business. There are no hotels in the immediate vicinity of the airport; however, a wide selection of accommodation options is available in the city of Nukus itself, which can be reached in 10-15 minutes. Basic business services, such as faxing or document copying, may be available in the VIP lounge.

Nukus Airport (NCU) is a small regional air terminal, so the choice of dining establishments here is limited. Nevertheless, passengers can find options to have a snack before departure if they are aware of the specifics of the local service.

Typically, in the main airport building, in the public area (before passing security control), there is one main buffet or café. This is the best place to spend time waiting for flight check-in. After passing control, in the departure zone, the selection is usually even more modest and may be represented by a small kiosk or a vending machine with drinks and snacks.

What you can find on the menu:

• For a quick snack: The assortment is based on hot drinks (tea, coffee), bottled water, juices, and carbonated drinks. Fresh pastries are usually available, in particular, traditional samsa with meat or pumpkin — an excellent option to get acquainted with local cuisine in miniature. You can also find sandwiches, chocolate, and other packaged snacks.
• For a full meal: One should not count on a full hot lunch or dinner with several courses at the airport. If you need a substantial meal, it is better to do so in advance at one of the cafés in the city of Nukus.

Passengers with specific dietary needs (vegan, gluten-free diet) are strongly advised to bring food with them, as finding suitable options at the airport is practically impossible. Meat dishes in Uzbekistan most often correspond to Halal standards, but for complete confidence, it is better to clarify on the spot.

Prices in the airport café are usually moderate, and the opening hours are strictly tied to the flight schedule. They open a few hours before departure and close shortly after the last aircraft departs.

To ensure your journey through the air gates of the capital of Karakalpakstan goes as smoothly and comfortably as possible, take advantage of our useful tips. Nukus Airport is relatively small and quiet, making it convenient for passengers, but knowing a few nuances never hurts.

Arrival Time and Check-in. We recommend arriving at the airport at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights. This time will be enough to go through all formalities without haste. If possible, use online check-in — this will save you time. Security and screening procedures here are standard but usually proceed faster than in major hubs.

Seat Selection. When flying out of Nukus or arriving there, choose a window seat to see the impressive landscapes of the Ustyurt Plateau and the Kyzylkum Desert. Aisle seats are convenient if you plan to get up during the flight.

Luggage Rules. Standard international restrictions apply to hand luggage: liquids in containers no larger than 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and explosive substances are prohibited. Power banks and lithium batteries are generally allowed only in hand luggage. Always check the exact luggage allowance on your airline's website.

For Connecting Passengers. If you have a connecting flight, check in advance whether your luggage will be automatically checked through to the final destination. At Nukus Airport, transfers are most often linked to domestic flights, for example, to Tashkent, so procedures are usually straightforward.

Customs Control. When departing from Uzbekistan, be prepared that the customs service may inquire about any items of cultural value you possess (carpets, suzani, antique items). Special permits are required for their export. Also, do not forget to declare cash currency if the amount exceeds the established limit.

Saving Time and Money. Besides online check-in, booking a taxi or transfer in advance will help save time. To avoid overpaying for drinks, you can bring an empty bottle and fill it with water from drinking fountains after passing security control (if available).

In Case of Flight Delay. If your flight is delayed, first contact your airline representative for up-to-date information. Depending on the length of the delay, the carrier is obliged to provide you with drinks, meals, and in case of a long wait — accommodation in a hotel. Stay calm and keep all boarding passes and receipts in case compensation is required.