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Shirak International Airport (LWN/UDSG) is Armenia's second international gateway, serving Gyumri in the northwestern Shirak Province about 5 km from the city center. Opened in 1961 and modernized in the 2000s, it has a single runway and a compact terminal, often acting as a backup for Yerevan's Zvartnots Airport. Its schedule is limited, with mostly seasonal or Moscow-focused services, so it feels quiet compared with the capital's airport.
💡 Local Tip
Frequent visitors know that Shirak's terminal can be very quiet outside flight times, and some services may close after the last arrival; check in online, carry snacks, and confirm taxi availability before you land.
🚖 Getting There
The airport is roughly 5 km from Gyumri, so a taxi is the quickest option; agree on the fare before departure or use a ride-hailing app if available. From Yerevan, the drive is about 120 km and takes 2–2.5 hours via the M1 highway, so allow plenty of time. If your flight is late or cancelled, note that onward transport from Gyumri can be sparse at night; pre-book a transfer or have a backup plan.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What airlines and destinations serve Shirak International Airport?
A: Service varies by season, but the airport has mainly handled flights to Moscow and a few other Russian cities, with occasional seasonal charters. Always check the current schedule, as routes can be suspended or moved to Yerevan.
Q: How far is Shirak Airport from Gyumri city center?
A: It is about 5 km (3 miles) from central Gyumri, typically a 10–15 minute taxi ride depending on traffic.
Q: Is there public transport from the airport?
A: Public transport is limited; taxis and pre-booked transfers are the most reliable options. Some marshrutkas or buses may pass on the main road, but they do not always serve the terminal directly.
Q: How early should I arrive for a flight?
A: For this small airport, arriving 1.5–2 hours before departure is usually sufficient, but allow extra time if you need to check in for an international flight or if you are connecting to Yerevan.
AI-generated content · Generated Sep 28, 2026 · deepseek-v4.1-flash