Cherek, RU 🇷🇺 Closed Airport
RU-0487
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- ft
RU-KB
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Loading...GPS Code: Not available
Local Code: Not available
Location: 43.527152° N, 43.997648° E
Continent: EU
Type: Closed Airport
Cherek (RU-0487) refers to the Chereksky District in the Kabardino-Balkar Republic of Russia, an administrative region rather than a specific airport or travel hub. Therefore, information regarding "terminal facilities," "security wait times," or "customs/immigration experience" is not applicable to this location. Traveler reviews and experiences for Chereksky District focus on its natural attractions and general regional tourism.
Overall traveler sentiment and satisfaction for the Chereksky District appear to be positive, primarily driven by its natural beauty and opportunities for outdoor activities. While specific recent reviews for the district itself are limited, broader reviews for travel in Russia often highlight positive experiences with guides, transportation, and well-organized tours, though these are not specific to Cherek.
In summary, Cherek (RU-0487), as the Chereksky District, is appreciated for its stunning natural environment and potential for outdoor and cultural exploration. However, specific recent traveler experiences detailing aspects like terminal facilities, security, or transportation connections within the district are not readily available, as the area is primarily a natural and administrative region rather than a dedicated travel facility. Travelers interested in this region should focus on its natural attractions and be aware that detailed tourist infrastructure reviews may be scarce.
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Early 1990s
The primary reason for the closure was economic collapse following the dissolution of the Soviet Union. The state-subsidized system of local air services (Местные воздушные линии - MVL) was dismantled, and the routes served by the airfield became economically unviable for the newly formed regional airlines. This led to a widespread abandonment of small, local airfields across Russia, including Cherek.
The airfield is completely abandoned and defunct. Satellite imagery shows the site has reverted to nature. The former unpaved runway is heavily overgrown with grass and is barely distinguishable from the surrounding agricultural fields and pastures. There are no remaining buildings, hangars, or any other aviation infrastructure visible on the site. The land appears to be used for grazing or farming.
During the Soviet era, Cherek airfield was a vital component of the local transportation network in the Kabardino-Balkarian Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic. Its main function was to connect the remote, mountainous Cherek district with the regional capital, Nalchik. Operations were primarily handled by rugged utility aircraft, most notably the Antonov An-2. The airfield facilitated the transport of passengers, mail, medical supplies, and essential cargo. It also likely supported agricultural aviation, such as crop dusting for the region's collective farms. For many years, it provided a crucial link for communities that had limited or difficult road access.
There are no known official plans, discussions, or prospects for reopening the Cherek airfield. The complete lack of existing infrastructure would require a total reconstruction, an investment for which there is no current economic or strategic justification. Road transportation in the region has improved significantly since the airfield was last operational, negating the need for such a small, local air service. The revival of the airfield is considered highly improbable.