International Airport:
| Airport Name | City | ICAO Code | IATA Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pyongyang Sunan International Airport | Pyongyang | ZKPY | FNJ |
Domestic Airports:
| Airport Name | City | ICAO Code | IATA Code |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kalma Airport | Wonsan | ZKWS | WOS |
| Samjiyŏn Airport | Samjiyon | ZKSE | YJS |
| Orang Airport | Chongjin | ZKHM | RGO |
| Sondok Airport | Hamhung | ZKSD | DSO |
| Uiju Airport | Sinuiju | ZKUJ | UJU |
Please note that while Pyongyang Sunan International Airport handles international flights, the other airports primarily serve domestic routes. The availability of flights and services at these airports may vary due to the country’s limited commercial aviation activities.
North Korea Airports: Infrastructure and International Access Challenges
North Korea, a secluded nation in East Asia, has a network of airports that remains shrouded in mystery. The country’s aviation infrastructure includes both civilian and military airfields, though exact details are hard to confirm due to the secretive nature of the regime.
North Korea may have up to 78 usable airfields, but their precise number and condition are uncertain. These range from small, basic runways to larger international airports capable of handling commercial flights. The main gateway for international visitors is Pyongyang International Airport, which serves the capital city.
The history of airports in North Korea dates back to the 1940s, when several airfields were built during Japanese rule. After the Korean War, the government expanded its aviation infrastructure to support military operations and, later, limited international travel. Today, these airports play a crucial role in North Korea’s transportation system, albeit with restricted access and tight controls.
Overview of Airports in North Korea
North Korea has a variety of airports, ranging from international hubs to small regional airfields. The country’s air infrastructure includes modern facilities as well as more basic airstrips.
Pyongyang Sunan International Airport
Pyongyang Sunan International Airport serves as North Korea’s primary international gateway. Located 24 kilometres from Pyongyang, it handles most of the country’s international flights.
The airport underwent significant renovations in 2015, including a new terminal building. It now features modern amenities such as duty-free shops and restaurants.
Air Koryo, North Korea’s national carrier, operates most flights from Sunan. International routes connect Pyongyang to cities in China and Russia.
Major Regional Airports
Several regional airports support domestic travel within North Korea. Wonsan Kalma International Airport on the east coast is a notable facility. It opened in 2015 and can accommodate large aircraft.
Samjiyŏn Airport, near Mount Paektu, serves tourists visiting this important cultural site. The airport received upgrades in recent years to improve its capacity.
Hyesan Airport in Ryanggang Province and Sondok Airport near Hamhung also play key roles in North Korea’s domestic air network.
Minor Airfields and Airstrips
North Korea possesses numerous smaller airfields and airstrips throughout the country. These facilities primarily serve military purposes or connect remote areas.
Many of these minor airfields have grass or dirt runways. They can handle small aircraft but lack the infrastructure for larger planes.
The exact number of these airfields is uncertain due to North Korea’s secretive nature. Estimates suggest there may be up to 78 usable airfields across the country.
Air Transportation in North Korea
North Korea’s air travel system is limited but functional. It relies heavily on the national airline and a handful of airports for both domestic and international flights.
National Airline Air Koryo
Air Koryo is North Korea’s state-owned airline. It operates with a fleet of mostly Russian-made aircraft, including Tupolev and Ilyushin models.
The airline has faced challenges due to international sanctions, which have affected its ability to modernise its fleet. Despite this, Air Koryo maintains regular flight schedules.
Air Koryo’s main hub is Pyongyang Sunan International Airport (IATA: FNJ). This airport serves as the primary gateway for international visitors to North Korea.
International Destinations
Air Koryo offers a limited number of international flights. Its main routes connect Pyongyang to:
- Beijing, China
- Shenyang, China
- Vladivostok, Russia
- Moscow, Russia
These destinations reflect North Korea’s diplomatic and economic ties. Flights are often subject to change based on political circumstances and demand.
Air Koryo is the sole airline operating international flights to and from North Korea. This gives the government tight control over who enters and leaves the country.
Domestic Flights and Regional Connectivity
Within North Korea, Air Koryo operates domestic flights to several regional airports. These include:
- Hamhung
- Chongjin
- Samjiyon
Domestic flights are primarily used by government officials and select tourists on approved itineraries. The frequency of these flights can be irregular.
North Korea’s domestic air network faces challenges due to fuel shortages and infrastructure limitations. Many regional airports have basic facilities and short runways.
The country may have up to 78 usable airfields, but many are likely military installations or in poor condition. Accurate information about these facilities is limited due to the secretive nature of the regime.
Frequently Asked Questions
North Korea has a limited number of airports for international travel. The country’s aviation infrastructure and policies affect flight options and accessibility for visitors.
What is the main international airport in North Korea?
The main international airport in North Korea is Pyongyang Sunan International Airport. It serves as the primary gateway for international flights to and from the country.
How can one obtain the flight schedule for departures from North Korean airports?
Flight schedules for North Korean airports are not readily available online. Travellers must typically contact authorised travel agencies or Air Koryo directly for current flight information.
Which airlines operate flights to North Korea?
Air Koryo, the state-owned airline of North Korea, is the primary carrier operating flights to the country. A few other airlines occasionally offer charter flights.
Can tourists currently book flights to North Korea?
At present, tourist flights to North Korea are restricted. The country’s travel policies change frequently, and visitors should check with authorised travel agencies for the most up-to-date information.
What are the international airport codes for North Korea’s airports?
The main international airport code for North Korea is FNJ, which stands for Pyongyang Sunan International Airport. Other airport codes are less commonly used.
How many operational airports exist within North Korea?
The exact number of operational airports in North Korea is unclear due to limited information. Estimates suggest there may be up to 78 usable airfields in the country, though many are likely for military use.
