Baikal Irkutsk Trans Siberian

Aero Mongolia Resumes Flights to Irkutsk 

2010-08-21
Lake Baikal News
Mongolian airline company AeroMongolia resumed regular service from Ulan-Bator to Irkutsk in August, 2010. Irkutsk to Ulan-Bator flight was discontinued after summer season of 2008 due to the low seat occupancy rates resulted by an overall economic recession in travel industry. Aero Mongoia fleet includes Fokker 50 aircrafts with the capacity of 50 seats which will be also used for the flights from Ulan-Bator to Irkutsk. Airfare starts from USD235 for one-way trip and USD420 for round-way trip. This is significantly more expensive then taking a train ride; however, it saves travelers 30 hours on the way.

During previous 2 years travel-trade professionals approached Irkutsk international airport and local regional authorities with the request to assist in organizing this flight. Irkutsk to Ulan-Bator route is extremely popular due to the growing number of Russian visitors as well as the strong demand by Trans-Siberian travelers who often choose to visit both Russia and Mongolia during the same trip. In summer months there is a shortage of train tickets available on this route. So, the alternative to the railway would be highly appreciated. Unfortunately, AeroMongolia starts operating this flight by the end of summer tourist season. Tour companies’ representatives do very much hope that this flight survives low winter season and will be available next summer as well.

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