Tucked away in the southwestern part of Azerbaijan, Nakhchivan is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage. While it may not be as well-known as other tourist destinations in the region, Nakhchivan is slowly gaining popularity among travelers who are eager to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations. And the gateway to this fascinating region is the Nakhchivan International Airport.
History and Development of Nakhchivan International Airport
The Nakhchivan International Airport, also known as Nakhchivan Airport, has a long history that dates back to the 1960s. During the Soviet era, the airport was primarily used for domestic flights, connecting Nakhchivan to other parts of Azerbaijan and the Soviet Union. After Azerbaijan gained independence in 1991, the airport underwent significant renovations and expansions to accommodate international flights.
Today, the Nakhchivan International Airport is a modern and well-equipped facility that offers a range of amenities and services to passengers. The airport has a single terminal building that handles both domestic and international flights, with a capacity to serve over 500,000 passengers per year.
Airlines and Destinations
The Nakhchivan International Airport is served by several airlines, including Azerbaijan Airlines, Turkish Airlines, and flydubai. The airport offers flights to a range of destinations, including Baku, Istanbul, Dubai, and Moscow.
Some of the most popular routes from Nakhchivan International Airport include:
- Baku, Azerbaijan (multiple daily flights)
- Istanbul, Turkey (daily flights)
- Dubai, UAE (weekly flights)
- Moscow, Russia (weekly flights)
Facilities and Services
The Nakhchivan International Airport offers a range of facilities and services to passengers, including:
- Check-in and baggage handling
- Security screening and passport control
- Duty-free shopping and dining
- Business lounge and VIP services
- Medical and emergency services
- Currency exchange and ATM facilities
Getting to and from the Airport
The Nakhchivan International Airport is located approximately 4 km from the city center, making it easily accessible by taxi or public transportation. Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminal, while public buses and minivans also operate on a regular basis.
Some of the most popular transportation options from the airport include:
- Taxi: approximately 5-10 AZN (3-6 USD) to the city center
- Public bus: approximately 1-2 AZN (0.5-1 USD) to the city center
- Minivan: approximately 2-3 AZN (1-2 USD) to the city center
Things to Do in Nakhchivan
Nakhchivan is a treasure trove of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural heritage. Some of the top things to do in Nakhchivan include:
- Exploring the ancient city of Nakhchivan, with its well-preserved walls and fortifications
- Visiting the Momuna Khatun Mausoleum, a stunning example of medieval architecture
- Trekking through the scenic mountains and valleys of the Zangezur Mountains
- Relaxing in the natural hot springs and spas of the region
- Sampling the local cuisine, including traditional dishes such as plov and shashlik
Natural Wonders of Nakhchivan
Nakhchivan is home to a range of natural wonders, including:
- The Alinja Fortress, a medieval fortress perched on a rocky outcrop
- The Yaycı National Park, a stunning park with scenic hiking trails and waterfalls
- The Bazarduzu Mountain, the highest peak in the region with breathtaking views
- The Ashabi-Kahf Cave, a massive cave system with ancient rock art
How do I get to Nakhchivan International Airport?
+Nakhchivan International Airport is located approximately 4 km from the city center, making it easily accessible by taxi or public transportation.
What airlines operate flights to Nakhchivan International Airport?
+Azerbaijan Airlines, Turkish Airlines, and flydubai are some of the airlines that operate flights to Nakhchivan International Airport.
What are some of the top things to do in Nakhchivan?
+Some of the top things to do in Nakhchivan include exploring the ancient city, visiting the Momuna Khatun Mausoleum, trekking through the mountains, and relaxing in the natural hot springs.