Sretenka Airport

Common Complaints

• Rude and Uncooperative Staff: Frequent complaints about security and immigration staff being unhelpful, rude, or unable to communicate in English.
• Language Barrier: Airport announcements are primarily in Russian, and many staff members have limited English proficiency.
• Aggressive Taxi Drivers: Unregulated and persistent taxi drivers outside the airport often attempt to overcharge passengers.
• Inconsistent or Limited Wi-Fi: Free Wi-Fi is often unreliable, difficult to connect to, or limited to short durations (e.g., 30 minutes) unless using a specific local SIM card.
• Poor Post-Security Amenities: The selection of food, beverages, and shopping options after security is very limited.
• Cash-Only Food Vendors: Many food vendors are expensive and do not accept credit cards, which is inconvenient for departing passengers trying to use up local currency.
• Security and Immigration Bottlenecks: Security queues can be slow, with reports of malfunctioning metal detectors leading to pat-downs and "unnecessary passport checking" before the main security points. Passport control can be disorganized, with travelers blocking access to booths.
• Dated Infrastructure: The airport's overall infrastructure is considered dated and could benefit from upgrades.
• ATM Issues: Some ATMs in the airport do not work with European bank cards.
• Noisy Environment: The airport can be noisy, particularly for those attempting to sleep.

In summary, while Bishkek Manas International Airport offers basic 24/7 services and can be a safe place for a layover, travelers should be prepared for potential challenges with staff communication, taxi services, and limited modern amenities. It is advisable to pre-arrange transportation and have local currency on hand.