Elista Airport (IATA: ESL, ICAO: URWI) serves Elista, RU. It has 2 scheduled routes to 2 destinations in 1 countries, operated by 2 airlines.
- Reopened and Functional: Travelers are positive about the airport being back in operation as a vital air service for the region, especially after its closure until May 2024.
- Improved Terminal Facilities: A significant overhaul completed in September 2023 modernized the passenger terminal, equipping it with modern check-in, control, and baggage handling systems, and improving passenger navigation. The terminal's capacity doubled to 100 passengers per hour.
- High Safety Standards: Reviewers consistently praise the top-notch safety measures and thorough security checks for hand luggage. Flight safety has been confirmed by relevant authorities.
- Convenient for a Small Airport: Despite its small size, the terminal is described as tidy and designed with convenience in mind.
- Limited Amenities: The airport offers basic amenities, including only a tiny cafe and a single restroom.
- Inconsistent Cafe Availability: The only cafe may not always be open, which can be inconvenient for travelers.
- Poor Winter Heating: Some past reviews mention poor heating during the winter months.
- Limited Destinations: The airport primarily serves domestic flights, with Aeroflot flying to Moscow-Sheremetyevo and Red Wings Airlines to Sochi and Yekaterinburg, plus a seasonal route to Antalya. Currently, only one non-stop passenger flight destination (Moscow Sheremetyevo) is regularly scheduled.
Bottom line: Elista Airport is recognized as a crucial regional hub, and its recent upgrades and reopening have been well-received, despite its inherent limitations as a smaller airport. Travelers appreciate its functionality and safety, although the range of services and destinations remains modest.
Routes from ESL
2 nonstop destinations · 2 airlines.
Airlines at ESL
2 carriers operate scheduled departures.
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Airport routes
Elista Airport (ESL) offers 2 flight routes operated by 2 airlines. Major carriers include Aeroflot, Red Wings Airlines and others. Popular destinations from Elista include Sheremetyevo Int'l, Koltsovo Int'l.
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Common questions about ESL
Quick answers, straight from the schedule data.
How many destinations have nonstop flights from ESL?
Elista Airport has 2 scheduled routes to 2 destinations in 1 countries, operated by 2 airlines.
Which airlines fly from Elista Airport?
2 carriers operate scheduled departures, including Aeroflot, Red Wings Airlines.
Where is Elista Airport located?
Elista Airport is located in Elista, RU, at an elevation of 501 ft. Its IATA code is ESL and ICAO code is URWI.

