list of airports in North Korea

The Airports of North Korea: A Glimpse into a Closed-Off Nation

North Korea, officially the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), remains one of the world’s most isolated and enigmatic countries. Access is heavily restricted, and this extends to its transportation infrastructure, particularly its airports. While international travel to North Korea is limited and tightly controlled, understanding the country’s airport network provides a fascinating, albeit limited, window into its operations and priorities. This article explores the airports of North Korea, detailing their locations, capabilities, and the current state of air travel within and to the nation.

Overview of North Korean Aviation

North Korean aviation is dominated by Air Koryo, the state-owned flag carrier. It operates a limited but aging fleet, primarily connecting Pyongyang with a few international destinations and domestic cities. The industry faces significant challenges, including sanctions, limited access to modern aircraft and technology, and restrictions on flight paths. Military control over airspace is also extensive, impacting civilian operations. Despite these hurdles, the DPRK maintains a network of airports, ranging from the relatively well-maintained Pyongyang Sunan International Airport to smaller, more rudimentary airstrips serving regional areas. The focus is largely on supporting government officials, military personnel, and a small number of carefully vetted tourists.

Key Airports in North Korea

The number of operational airports in North Korea is debated, with estimates ranging from around 24 to over 100, including many small, unpaved airstrips primarily used by the military. Here’s a look at the most significant airports, categorized by their role and capabilities:

Note: Many North Korean airports lack publicly available information regarding runway surface and length. The table reflects the best available data as of late 2023/early 2024. IATA codes are not always assigned to domestic airports.

Pyongyang Sunan International Airport: The Main Gateway

Pyongyang Sunan International Airport is by far the most important airport in North Korea. It serves as the primary international gateway and the hub for Air Koryo. The airport underwent a significant modernization in 2015, resulting in a new terminal building with improved facilities, including duty-free shops (though selection is limited) and baggage handling systems. However, the modernization hasn’t fully addressed the limitations imposed by international sanctions, and access to advanced aviation technology remains restricted. Currently, scheduled international flights are limited to destinations like Beijing, Shanghai, and potentially other Chinese cities, as well as Vladivostok, Russia.

Domestic Air Travel in North Korea

Domestic air travel is primarily used by government officials and those with special permission. Air Koryo operates flights connecting Pyongyang to key regional cities like Wonsan, Hamhung, Chongjin, and Samjiyon. The fleet used for domestic routes consists largely of older Soviet-era aircraft, such as the Antonov An-24. The frequency of domestic flights is low, and schedules are often unpredictable. The recent development of Samjiyon Airport, near the border with China and Russia, suggests a growing emphasis on developing tourism and economic ties in that region.

The Impact of Sanctions and Isolation

International sanctions imposed on North Korea due to its nuclear weapons and ballistic missile programs have significantly impacted its aviation industry. Restrictions on the import of aircraft, spare parts, and aviation fuel have hampered modernization efforts and made it difficult to maintain the existing fleet. The limited number of international routes and the aging aircraft also contribute to a lack of competition and innovation. The country’s self-imposed isolation further exacerbates these challenges, limiting access to international expertise and best practices.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can tourists fly directly to North Korea?
Yes, but only on sanctioned tours and via Pyongyang Sunan International Airport. Independent travel is not permitted.

2. What airlines fly to North Korea?
Currently, Air Koryo is the primary airline. Occasional charter flights may be operated by other airlines, primarily from China.

3. Are North Korean airports safe?
Safety standards are generally considered lower than international norms, due to aging infrastructure and limited access to modern safety equipment.

4. What is the condition of the aircraft used by Air Koryo?
The fleet is aging, consisting largely of Soviet-era aircraft. Maintenance is a challenge due to sanctions and limited access to spare parts.

5. Is it possible to transit through a North Korean airport?
Transiting is extremely rare and generally not permitted, except under very specific circumstances arranged through authorized tour operators.

Resources

• Air Koryo: http://airkoryo.com.kp/ (Official Website – may be unreliable)
• North Korea Travel Guide: https://www.northkoreatour.com/ (Information on travel to North Korea)
• Wikipedia – Airports in North Korea: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_airports_in_North_Korea
• Flightradar24 (limited data): https://www.flightradar24.com/ (Can sometimes track Air Koryo flights)
• The Diplomat – North Korea’s Aviation Ambitions: https://thediplomat.com/2018/07/north-koreas-aviation-ambitions/ (Insightful article on the state of North Korean aviation)