Aktau Airport – SCO Shevchenko-Central

Aktau Airport is an aerodrome in Aktau, Kazakhstan that became operational after the 1993 collapse of the Soviet Union. Its airport code SCO stands for its old name, Shevchenko-Central. Aktau Airport came about as a result of the oil industry’s development in the Caspian region, which necessitated the speedy delivery of related equipment. Because of this, the airfield and terminal had to be reconstructed to accommodate increased freight and passenger capacity.

Best Time to Visit

SCO operates with one asphalt runway designated 12/30, measuring 10,013 feet. As a class B airport, it can receive aircraft like the AN-124, the Boeing-747-200, the IL-76, as well as all types of helicopters. In 2007, a 30-year concession for Aktau Airport was given to the ATM Group with a stipulation for the construction of a new passenger terminal. Completed in 2009, this new terminal has a total area of 144,000 square feet and can hold 450 passengers per hour. It is equipped with electronic and electromechanical systems such as X-ray scanners, telescopic ladders, escalators, and elevators among others.

What to Do & Area Attractions

For accommodations near Aktau Airport, the Gostinitsa Arman is 20 minutes away by cab and nine minutes from the Beket-Ata Aktau Central Mosque, an important and popular place of pilgrimage. Alternatively, the five-star Grand Nur Plaza is 22 minutes out from SCO. Other options include the Renaissance Aktau Hotel and the Grand Hotel Victory, both located 15 miles from the airport.

The nearest local airport is Turkmenbashi International Airport almost 280 miles away in Turkmenistan. The closest major aerodrome is Heydar Aliyev International Airport about 337 miles away inBaku, Azerbaijan.