Cultural Experiences
25 Jun, 2025
Heydar Aliyev International Airport (IATA: GYD) is located in the northeastern part of Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, approximately 20 kilometers from the city center. It serves as the country’s primary air transportation hub and stands as one of the most modern and well-equipped airports in the entire South Caucasus region.
Formerly known as Bina Airport, this facility was renamed in 2004 in honor of Azerbaijan’s national leader, Heydar Aliyev. The renaming is a tribute to his significant contributions to the development of the country. Today, the airport proudly bears his name, symbolizing his enduring legacy.
The new Terminal 1 building, inaugurated in 2014, has become the architectural and functional symbol of the airport. Boasting cutting-edge design and advanced technological features, the terminal is capable of handling thousands of passengers per hour. It is equipped with state-of-the-art security systems, self-check-in kiosks, duty-free shops, a wide range of restaurants and cafés, VIP lounges, rest areas, and children’s play zones — all designed to provide maximum comfort for travelers.
Heydar Aliyev International Airport serves as the main hub for Azerbaijan's national carrier, “AZAL” (Azerbaijan Airlines). From this airport, direct flights are operated to dozens of cities across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and CIS countries.
The airport has been highly praised by international aviation organizations. It has received several awards for customer satisfaction and service quality, and it is consistently ranked among the best airports in the CIS and Eastern Europe by “Skytrax,” one of the most respected global air transport rating organizations.
Heydar Aliyev International Airport plays a vital role in Azerbaijan’s strategy to become a key player in international logistics and transportation. Alongside the Baku–Tbilisi–Kars railway and the Port of Baku, the airport is a central component of the region's growing intermodal transport network.
Currently, several expansion and technological modernization projects are underway. These initiatives aim to increase passenger capacity, enhance cargo operations, and ensure environmental sustainability through innovative solutions.