Gelendzhik Airport (GDZ)
Gelendzhik, RU 🇷🇺 Medium Airport Scheduled Service
ICAO
URKG
IATA
GDZ
Elevation
98 ft
Region
RU-KDA
Local Time
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GPS Code: URKG
Local Code: Not available
Location: 44.582093° N, 38.012481° E
Continent: Europe
Type: Medium Airport
Keywords: Аэропорт Геленджик
What Travelers Say
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Online Reviews Summary
Gelendzhik Airport (URKG (GDZ)) recently reopened on July 10, 2025, with commercial flights resuming on July 18, 2025, after being closed since February 2022. However, temporary flight restrictions were reintroduced in September 2025, leading to renewed operational disruptions and cancellations. Due to this very limited and interrupted operational window, comprehensive recent traveler reviews and experiences for the newly reopened airport are scarce, and many existing reviews may pertain to its previous operational phase. Traveler sentiment is therefore difficult to gauge accurately for the current period, with initial enthusiasm for the reopening quickly followed by renewed uncertainty.
What Travelers Love (Based on New Terminal Features and Limited Recent Data):
- Stunning Design and Modern Facilities: The new terminal, completed in December 2021 by Italian architectural studio Fuksas, is inspired by a bird soaring over the bay and offers contemporary design and modern amenities. It features a spacious layout with over 1,800 square meters for shopping and dining.
- Enhanced Capacity: The new terminal is equipped with 13 check-in counters (including for oversized luggage), six boarding gates, and two baggage claim belts, designed to handle up to 900 passengers per hour and over 1 million annually, aiming for smooth operations.
- Convenient Location and Transfer Service: The airport's location is convenient for visiting nearby relatives, and it offers a hassle-free transfer service where drivers meet guests at baggage claim for 2500 rubles.
Common Complaints
- Renewed Flight Restrictions and Cancellations: The most significant recent complaint is the reintroduction of temporary restrictions in September 2025, which has halted flights and caused widespread delays and cancellations.
- Overcrowding and Inefficient Space (Potentially from past operations or peak periods): Some older reviews mention a "small waiting area filled with parents with children during vocation period" and issues when multiple flights depart simultaneously, suggesting potential overcrowding during busy times.
- Rudimentary Facilities and Overpriced Food (Potentially from past operations): Older feedback noted "rudimentary facilities" and "so-so food and beer diluted with water way overpriced," which might indicate areas for improvement in ancillary services even with a new terminal.
- Lack of Modern Amenities/Views (Potentially from certain areas of the terminal or older observations): Some travelers previously criticized the "lack of modern amenities like windows to see planes."
- Priority Pass Issues: Reports indicate the airport has not accepted Priority Pass "due to technical reasons," with a high entry cost of 10500 rubles for lounge access.
- Waiting Times and Queues: General sentiment regarding "waiting time" and "queues" has been noted negatively in a portion of reviews.
Given the current intermittent operational status of Gelendzhik Airport following its recent reopening and subsequent re-restrictions, it is challenging to provide a definitive overall recommendation based on consistent traveler experiences. While the new terminal offers promising modern infrastructure, the reliability of flights remains a significant concern, overshadowing potential positive service aspects. Travelers should monitor the airport's operational status closely before planning travel.
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Airport Routes
Route Network Map
Top Routes (by observations)
Newly Discovered
Popular Flight Routes
| Destination | IATA | City | Aircraft Type | Airline | Details | Route Map |
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Top Airlines
Operating at Gelendzhik AirportAirlines by Flight Activity
Based on observed flight operations and route network| Airline | Routes | Flights | Destinations | Last Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Aeroflot
AFL
/ SU
|
1 | 7 | 1 | Jan 23, 2026 |
S7 Airlines
SBI
/ S7
|
1 | 1 | 1 | Aug 16, 2025 |
Ural
SVR
/ U6
|
1 | 1 | 1 | Aug 16, 2025 |
UTair
UTA
/ UT
|
1 | 1 | 1 | Aug 16, 2025 |
For Pilots
| Designation | Length | Width | Surface | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
01/19 |
10171 ft | 148 ft | CONC | Active Lighted |
| Type | Description | Frequency |
|---|
Ground Transportation
Taxis
Taxis are readily available outside the arrivals terminal. You can use ride-hailing apps like Yandex.Go, which is the most popular option in the region, or use the official airport taxi service. The journey to the center of Gelendzhik is short, typically taking around 10-15 minutes depending on traffic.
Rental Cars
Car rental services are available at the airport, with desks for several local rental companies located within the terminal building. It is highly recommended to book a car in advance, especially during the peak summer season, to ensure availability and secure better rates. An International Driving Permit may be required in addition to your national license.
Public Transportation
The airport is connected to the city by public bus. Bus route No. 5 runs between the airport and the city center, continuing to the main bus station (Avtovokzal). The bus stop is located just outside the terminal exit. This is the most budget-friendly option, but be aware that service may be less frequent during evenings and the off-season.
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External Links & Resources
Official Resources
Public Transportation