# Exploring the Airports of Azerbaijan: A Comprehensive Guide
Azerbaijan, the “Land of Fire,” is a fascinating country bridging Eastern Europe and Western Asia. With a rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes, it’s becoming an increasingly popular travel destination. Understanding the country’s airport infrastructure is key to planning a smooth and enjoyable trip. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of all the airports in Azerbaijan, covering their locations, services, and what you can expect when flying in or out.
## **Overview of Azerbaijan’s Aviation Landscape**
Azerbaijan’s aviation sector has seen significant development in recent years, driven by economic growth and a growing tourism industry. The country boasts a network of airports, ranging from the modern, internationally-connected Heydar Aliyev International Airport in Baku to smaller regional airports serving domestic routes. The national airline, Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL), plays a central role, but numerous international carriers also operate flights to and from the country. Investment in airport infrastructure continues, aiming to enhance capacity and improve the passenger experience.
## **List of Airports in Azerbaijan**
Here’s a detailed list of all currently operational and notable airports in Azerbaijan:
| Airport Name | City Served | IATA Code | ICAO Code | Elevation (m) | Runway Length (m) | Services |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Heydar Aliyev International Airport | Baku | GYD | HEZ | 20 m | 3,700 | International, Full Service, Cargo |
| Nakhchivan International Airport | Nakhchivan | NAJ | UBB | 988 m | 2,700 | International, Full Service |
| Ganja International Airport | Ganja | GNJ | UGB | 1,233 m | 3,000 | International, Full Service |
| Gabala International Airport | Gabala | GBJ | UGF | 620 m | 2,865 | International, Full Service, Private Aviation |
| Lankaran International Airport | Lankaran | LCN | ULKL | 10 m | 2,500 | Domestic, International (limited) |
| Zagatala International Airport | Zagatala | ZAL | UGJ | 540 m | 2,200 | Domestic, Regional |
| Saki Airport (Goygol) | Goygol | - | UGBG | 1,233 m | 2,500 | Primarily Military, Limited Civilian Use |
| Shamkir Airport | Shamkir | - | UGSK | 400 m | 2,000 | Primarily Military, Limited Civilian Use |
| Fuzuli International Airport | Fuzuli | FZL | UGFZ | 420 m | 3,000 | International (New, Developing) |
| Zangilan International Airport | Zangilan | ZIL | UGBZ | 340 m | 3,000 | International (New, Developing) |
*Note: Airports marked with "-" for IATA code may have limited or no scheduled commercial flights.*
## **Spotlight on Key Airports**
### Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD) – Baku’s Gateway
As the largest and busiest airport in Azerbaijan, Heydar Aliyev International Airport is the primary international gateway. Located approximately 20 kilometers west of Baku, it offers a wide range of international destinations served by numerous airlines. The airport features modern facilities, including comfortable lounges, duty-free shopping, restaurants, and efficient baggage handling. Recent expansions have significantly increased its capacity.
### Nakhchivan International Airport (NAJ) – Connecting to the Autonomous Republic
Serving the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, this airport is crucial for connectivity to this unique region of Azerbaijan. It handles both domestic and international flights, primarily connecting Nakhchivan with Baku and other regional destinations.
### Ganja International Airport (GNJ) – A Regional Hub
Ganja International Airport is the second busiest airport in Azerbaijan, serving the western part of the country. It offers a mix of domestic and international flights, catering to both business and leisure travelers.
### Fuzuli and Zangilan International Airports – New Frontiers
Recently inaugurated, Fuzuli and Zangilan International Airports represent a significant investment in the liberated territories of Azerbaijan. These modern airports are designed to boost tourism and economic development in the region, offering connectivity to both domestic and international destinations. They are still under development and expanding their route networks.
## **Navigating Airport Services & Transportation**
Most major airports in Azerbaijan offer standard amenities such as currency exchange, ATMs, information desks, and car rental services. Transportation options from the airports vary. In Baku, taxis and airport express buses are readily available. Ganja and Nakhchivan also have taxi services and local bus connections. It’s advisable to pre-book airport transfers, especially if arriving late at night.
## **Future Developments in Azerbaijani Aviation**
Azerbaijan is committed to further developing its aviation infrastructure. Plans include expanding existing airports, introducing new routes, and attracting more international airlines. The focus is on enhancing connectivity, improving passenger experience, and supporting the country’s economic growth. The new airports in Fuzuli and Zangilan are central to this strategy.
## **Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)**
**1. What is the main international airport in Azerbaijan?**
Heydar Aliyev International Airport (GYD) in Baku is the main international airport.
**2. Are there direct flights from the US to Azerbaijan?**
Currently, there are no direct flights from the US to Azerbaijan. Flights typically involve connections through European or Turkish hubs.
**3. What airlines fly to Azerbaijan?**
Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL), Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa, Qatar Airways, and Flydubai are among the airlines that fly to Azerbaijan.
**4. Is visa required for all nationalities to enter Azerbaijan?**
Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality. It’s best to check the official website of the State Migration Service of the Republic of Azerbaijan for the latest information.
**5. What is the currency exchange rate at the airports?**
Currency exchange rates at airports are generally less favorable than those found in banks or exchange offices in the city. It’s recommended to exchange a small amount at the airport for immediate needs and then seek better rates elsewhere.
## **Resources**
* **Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL):** [https://www.azal.az/en](https://www.azal.az/en)
* **Heydar Aliyev International Airport:** [https://heyet-airport.com/en/](https://heyet-airport.com/en/)
* **State Migration Service of the Republic of Azerbaijan:** [https://migration.gov.az/en/](https://migration.gov.az/en/)
* **Azerbaijan Tourism Board:** [https://tourism.az/en/](https://tourism.az/en/)
