Ugolny Yuri Ryktheu Airport

Markovo Airport sits on the west bank of the Anadyr River in Chukotka, serving a village of fewer than 800 people where road connections to the outside world are almost nonexistent. The airport is the primary link between this remote community and the regional capital Anadyr, some 200 kilometres away as the raven flies. Built on permafrost, the single runway handles small turboprop aircraft like the Antonov An-24 and the DHC-6 Twin Otter, which are the only reliable means of reaching Markovo throughout most of the year. During summer, riverboats can navigate the Anadyr from the coast, but the airport remains the backbone of transport, especially for urgent supplies, medical evacuations, and scheduled passenger traffic. The airport’s schedule is limited—it appears to operate on select days, with the busiest times concentrated on Monday and Thursday mornings, Tuesday midday, and Wednesday afternoon. Understanding these patterns is essential for anyone planning a visit, as missing a flight could mean a wait of several days.

Getting There

Reaching Markovo begins with a flight from Anadyr Airport (DYR). The distance is approximately 200 kilometres, and the flight time in a Twin Otter is around one hour. ChukotAvia, the regional carrier, operates this route on a schedule that varies by season and demand. Bookings are typically made through local agents or by phone, as online booking for this remote service is unreliable. From the airport terminal in Anadyr, passengers proceed to a small check-in area where luggage is weighed—cargo capacity is limited on these small aircraft. The flight itself offers views of the winding Anadyr River, endless tundra, and the occasional reindeer herd. In winter, the landscape is white and stark; in summer, the tundra turns green and is dotted with wildflowers. During the flight, the pilot may announce a landing approach along the river, as the runway at Markovo runs parallel to the water. Upon arrival, passengers disembark on the tarmac and walk the short distance to the terminal. There are no bus gates or jet bridges.

Inside the Terminal

The terminal at Aeroport Markovo is a modest single-story building. The confirmed facility is a toilet, which is a crucial amenity in this remote location. The interior consists of a small waiting area with plastic chairs and a counter serving as the check-in desk and baggage claim. There are no shops, cafes, or vending machines, so any refreshments must be brought from Anadyr. The atmosphere is utilitarian—passengers cluster near the single door, listening for announcements over a loudspeaker that crackles with the pilot’s voice. During the busiest times—Monday 8 am, Tuesday 12 pm, Wednesday 4 pm, Thursday 8 am—the terminal can become crowded with locals returning from shopping trips in Anadyr or workers heading to remote camps. Security is minimal: a quick bag search and a metal detector wand. The terminal is heated in winter by a wood stove in one corner, and in summer, the door is left open to let in fresh air. There is no Wi-Fi and mobile phone signal is patchy. The entire boarding process is done on foot: after check-in, passengers simply walk out onto the apron and climb the aircraft steps. Luggage is loaded by hand into the cargo hold.

Aeroport Markovo and Markovo

Markovo itself is one of the oldest Russian settlements in Chukotka, founded in the 17th century by Cossacks exploring the Anadyr River. Today, it is home to a mixed population of ethnic Russians, Chukchi, and Even people. The village lies on the left bank of the Anadyr, with wooden houses scattered along unpaved roads. The economy revolves around reindeer herding, fishing, and a small amount of tourism—mostly adventure travellers and scientists. A notable local industry is the production of smoked fish, particularly chum salmon and whitefish, which is sold in Anadyr. Culturally, Markovo is known for the Markovo Fair, a summer event featuring reindeer races, traditional dancing, and a marketplace for handicrafts like carved walrus ivory and beaded footwear. The surrounding landscape is flat tundra interspersed with lakes and rivers, ideal for hiking and birdwatching during the brief summer. Winter temperatures plunge to minus 40°C, and the sun does not rise above the horizon for two months. In contrast, summer brings 24-hour daylight and swarms of mosquitoes. The village has a school, a small hospital, a post office, and a general store. The airport is the lifeline, bringing in not just passengers but also mail, food supplies, and construction materials. For visitors, Markovo offers a rare glimpse into life on the edge of the Arctic, where resilience and community take precedence over convenience. The sheer isolation makes the experience memorable—there are no roads out, and the next flight is often days away. Understanding that the airport operates only on certain days (Monday through Thursday based on busiest times) is critical for planning. The phone number is +7 427 329-14-44, which can be used to confirm flight schedules in advance.

Practical Information

The airport does not appear to operate daily; based on the busiest times, flights likely run Monday through Thursday, with no scheduled services from Friday to Sunday. Hours of operation are not officially published, but flights typically occur in the morning and early afternoon to align with Anadyr connections. The contact number (+7 427 329-14-44) can be called for schedule information, though language barriers may exist—Russian is essential. There are no ATMs in Markovo, so bring sufficient cash in Russian rubles. Dress warmly even in summer, as the tundra wind can be biting. Pack snacks and a reusable water bottle. Check-in luggage restrictions are strict: usually 20 kg per person on small aircraft. If travelling to Markovo for tourism, coordinate with a local guide in advance, as accommodation is limited (homestays or a small guesthouse). The most important piece of advice: confirm your return flight immediately upon arrival at the airport, as schedules change without notice and you may need to be flexible with your departure date.