Direct Flights Between Moscow and North Korea Begin Amid Closer Ties
A new air route connecting Moscow and Pyongyang launched this week, reflecting deepening relations between the two nations and fewer travel options for Russian citizens seeking to go abroad.
The inaugural flight, operated by Nordwind Airlines, departed from Sheremetyevo Airport on Sunday and arrived in North Korea’s capital approximately eight hours later, according to the airport’s website.
Russia’s transport ministry stated that the route will initially run once a month, with the first return flight from Pyongyang to Moscow scheduled for Tuesday.
Tickets for the flight were listed at 45,000 rubles ($570). Nordwind Airlines had previously offered flights to European destinations before restrictions were imposed on Russian airlines by the EU.
“This marks a significant moment in the relationship between our countries,” said Oleg, a Nordwind employee involved in organizing the flight, who declined to provide his full name. He did not disclose the number of passengers on board.
In recent years, military cooperation between Russia and North Korea has intensified, with Pyongyang providing personnel and weaponry for Russia’s actions in Ukraine. A mutual defense agreement was signed last year during Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to North Korea.
Russia’s deputy transport minister, Vladimir Poteshkin, stated on the ministry’s Telegram channel that this is the first direct flight between the two capitals in more than seven decades of diplomatic ties.
The launch coincides with North Korea’s cautious reopening to foreign visitors following pandemic-era restrictions. While general tourism remains largely prohibited, group tours for Russian travelers have been permitted in select areas. In April, foreign participants took part in a marathon in Pyongyang.
Earlier this year, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un inaugurated a coastal resort on the country’s eastern shore, which officials expect could draw around 20,000 visitors annually.
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