Sortavala Airstrip

The closure was primarily due to economic reasons. The collapse of the Soviet Union resulted in the termination of state subsidies for regional air travel, a sharp increase in fuel and maintenance costs, and a dramatic decline in passenger demand. This systemic economic shock made small regional airports like Sortavala financially unsustainable, leading to its closure along with hundreds of similar airfields across Russia.

The site is currently abandoned and non-operational as a certified airport. Satellite imagery of the coordinates reveals a single, paved runway that is clearly visible but in a state of disrepair, with a weathered surface and no markings. A few small, likely derelict, buildings stand adjacent to the runway. The airfield is completely inactive from an aviation standpoint and is reportedly used unofficially by locals for activities such as driver training and car enthusiast meetups.

During the Soviet era, Sortavala Airstrip was a vital regional airport that served as a key transportation link for the town of Sortavala and the surrounding Ladoga Karelia region. It was part of the extensive 'Local Air Lines' (Местные воздушные линии - МВЛ) network managed by the Karelian Directorate of Aeroflot. The airport primarily handled passenger and mail flights using small, robust aircraft like the Antonov An-2 biplane, connecting Sortavala with the republican capital, Petrozavodsk, and other local settlements. It was essential for providing connectivity to a relatively remote area with challenging ground transportation.

There are active and significant plans to reconstruct and reopen the airport. The government of the Republic of Karelia views the airport's revival as a strategic project to boost the region's booming tourism industry, which is centered around major attractions like the Valaam Monastery and the Ruskeala Mountain Park. The plan involves a complete reconstruction, including a new, modern runway (proposed length of 1,500-1,800 meters) and a passenger terminal capable of handling year-round flights. The goal is to accommodate modern regional aircraft (such as the Let L-410 or larger) to bring tourists directly to the area. As of early 2024, the project has moved into the design and survey stage with allocated regional funding, though securing full federal financing remains a key step for construction to begin. The project is a high priority for the regional administration.