Pulkovo Airport

Ever wonder what it’s like to stand at the gateway to Russia’s cultural heart? We’re here at Pulkovo Airport, a place buzzing with more than just travelers. It’s a place steeped in history, a silent witness to Russia’s changing fortunes. Pulkovo Airport, originally named Shosseynaya Airport, opened its doors on June 24, 1932. Imagine a time when air travel was a novelty, a luxury. This airport, then state-owned and domestic, served as a vital link between cities within the USSR. Pulkovo Airport witnessed the evolution of aviation, from the early propeller planes to the sleek jets of today. In the 1950s, the runway was extended to accommodate larger aircraft like the Ilyushin-18 and Tupolev-104, marking the dawn of the jet age at Shosseynaya. The airport even played a crucial role during World War II. During the Siege of Leningrad, Shosseynaya Airport became a frontline, its runways silent under the shadow of war. The nearby Pulkovo hills, occupied by German forces, served as a strategic vantage point for their artillery. It wasn’t until 1944 that the airport was reclaimed, and flights, initially carrying cargo and mail, resumed in 1945. It took another three years for scheduled passenger flights to return, a testament to the resilience of this vital hub. In 1973, the airport officially became Pulkovo Airport. The new Pulkovo 1 terminal, with its iconic five cups, was a masterpiece of Soviet postmodern architecture. These cups weren’t just for show. They were designed to maximize natural light and create a sense of spaciousness. Meanwhile, the original pre-war building was renamed Pulkovo 2 and dedicated to international flights. By 2009, with the creation of the Northern Capital Gateway consortium, Pulkovo Airport began its transformation into the modern international hub we see today. Today, Pulkovo Airport stands as a symbol of connection, a bridge between Russia and the world. It continues to evolve, embracing the future while carrying the weight of its rich past.