Baku Heydar Aliyev Airport (GYD)

Baku Heydar Aliyev Airport Transfers (GYD)

FAQs about Baku Airport Transfers

When should I book my taxi from or to Baku Airport?

We recommend booking your Baku airport taxi as soon as your travel plans are confirmed, but no later than 24 hours before your scheduled flight arrival time. The same applies for your transfer from city to Baku Airport: you should book at least 24 hours before your scheduled pick-up time from your accommodation.

Is it safe to book my taxi on UPTransfers.com?

Absolutely. Our website employs advanced SSL encryption technology to ensure your personal information remains completely secure, and we never share your details with third parties.

Do you provide a private transfer service straight to my hotel?

Yes, we provide door-to-door service for all transfers. Our driver will meet you at Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport and transport you directly to your Baku airport to hotel destination or any other location specified in your booking, whether in central Baku districts like 28 May, Fountain Square area, and Nizami Street, historic neighborhoods such as Old City (Icherisheher), modern areas including Yasamal and Nasimi, or even to other Azerbaijani destinations including Gobustan, Quba, Gabala, Sheki, and Shamakhi.

How much is a taxi from Baku Airport to central Baku?

Taxi prices from Baku airport to central Baku (28 May/Fountain Square area) start from 14 AZN / 8 USD / 8 EUR / £7. Our sedan vehicles accommodate up to 4 passengers, while our minivans have capacity for up to 8 passengers. Transfers to other popular destinations include: Gobustan National Park (approximately 50 AZN / 29 USD / 29 EUR / £25), Ateshgah Fire Temple (approximately 35 AZN / 20 USD / 20 EUR / £17), Quba (approximately 120 AZN / 69 USD / 70 EUR / £58), Gabala (approximately 150 AZN / 87 USD / 87 EUR / £73), Sheki (approximately 200 AZN / 115 USD / 116 EUR / £97), and Shahdag Mountain Resort (approximately 160 AZN / 92 USD / 93 EUR / £78).

How far is Baku Airport from central Baku?

The distance between Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport and central Baku (28 May/Fountain Square area) is approximately 20-25 kms (12-16 miles). The distance to Gobustan National Park is about 65 kms (40 miles), to Quba approximately 165 kms (103 miles), to Gabala about 225 kms (140 miles), to Sheki approximately 320 kms (199 miles), and to Shahdag Mountain Resort about 230 kms (143 miles).

How long does it take from Baku Airport to central Baku?

The estimated travel time from Baku airport to central Baku (28 May/Fountain Square area) is 25-35 minutes under normal conditions. Travel to Gobustan typically takes 1 hour, to Quba about 2.5 hours, to Gabala approximately 3-3.5 hours, to Sheki about 5-6 hours, and to Shahdag Mountain Resort approximately 3.5 hours. Travel duration may vary depending on traffic conditions, which can be heavier during rush hours (8-10 AM and 6-8 PM on weekdays), tourist high season (April-October), and special events including Formula 1 Grand Prix. When booking your taxi from your hotel to Baku Airport, we recommend allowing extra time during these periods to ensure you don't miss your flight.

Can I cancel my reservation?

Yes, you can cancel your reservation without charges and receive a complete refund according to our cancellation policy.

Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport - Azerbaijan's Primary Gateway

Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport (named after former Azerbaijani President Heydar Aliyev who ruled from 1969-1982 as First Secretary and 1993-2003 as President) serves as Azerbaijan's busiest and most important international gateway, providing extensive connections to destinations across Europe, Russia, the Middle East, and Asia with particular emphasis on CIS routes and key European connections. This modern facility, operated by Azerbaijan Airports CJSC, represents the centerpiece of Azerbaijan's aviation infrastructure, featuring efficient terminal operations, contemporary facilities, and infrastructure handling approximately 7.5-7.6 million passengers annually as of 2024-2025, with significant growth in passenger traffic continuing as Azerbaijan strengthens its position as a regional transit hub. Strategically positioned approximately 20-25 kilometers northeast of Baku's city center near the settlement of Qaradag, the airport functions as a vital transport hub, serving as a key operational base for Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) with particular importance for Azerbaijani diaspora connections to Russia, Europe, and the Middle East. With dozens of daily flights to over 80 destinations across more than 34 countries, Heydar Aliyev International Airport's importance stems from its position as Azerbaijan's primary air access point and a crucial connector for the Azerbaijani diaspora worldwide, particularly following route adjustments by European airlines avoiding Russian airspace after 2022. The facility embodies Azerbaijan's ancient fire-worship heritage and modern oil-fueled prosperity, welcoming visitors with efficient processing and remarkably convenient access to one of the world's oldest settled regions and the Caspian Sea's largest city.

Terminal Facilities and Services at Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport

Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport's terminals demonstrate practical efficiency with well-organized check-in areas, security checkpoints, and arrival facilities spread across its two passenger terminal buildings (Terminal 1 primary international terminal and Terminal 2 for some operations). The terminals feature straightforward passenger flow with modern design elements and appropriate technology including biometric systems, 150+ surveillance cameras across airport premises, and advanced flight information display system (FIDS), particularly suitable for the mix of diaspora travelers, tourists, energy industry professionals, and business visitors who choose this airport. The terminals provide for traveler needs with comfortable waiting areas, quality dining options, and practical shopping facilities appropriate for this historic Caucasian gateway. International visitors appreciate the relatively efficient layout and processing, while multilingual staff (Azerbaijani, Russian, English) facilitates smooth transit to destinations throughout Baku, surrounding regions, or to connecting transport options including buses, taxis, and rental cars.

Important Development: The airport underwent significant infrastructure improvements with the renovated runway reopening in September 2024 after comprehensive reconstruction, significantly enhancing operational efficiency and safety standards. The facility has received multiple international recognitions including Skytrax's "Best Airport in Central Asia and the CIS" award for multiple consecutive years (2024, 2025), and achieved Level 3 carbon accreditation under the Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) program, demonstrating commitment to environmental sustainability alongside operational excellence.

Shopping and Dining Experience at Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport

Airport Shopping

Passengers at Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport can access a selection of shops offering both travel necessities and Azerbaijani products within the terminals. The shopping areas provide a range of products, including duty-free shops in both arrivals and departures areas alongside specialty stores featuring Azerbaijani handicrafts, Azerbaijani carpets (Azerbaijan's carpet weaving is UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage), traditional copperware, silk products, caviar from the Caspian Sea, local honey, dried fruits, pomegranate products, tea, traditional sweets including pakhlava (Azerbaijani baklava), religious items, souvenirs, and essential travel items. The duty-free areas offer typical selections of perfumes, cosmetics, liquor, tobacco products, and chocolates at competitive tax-free prices. Baku's retail offering focuses on providing essential shopping options alongside authentic Azerbaijani specialties, with a practical mix of travel necessities and local products in a convenient terminal environment. Passengers particularly appreciate the opportunity to purchase last-minute Azerbaijani carpets, caviar, and traditional crafts before departure.

Dining Options

Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport's dining facilities showcase Azerbaijani and international options to satisfy diverse tastes. From cafés serving Azerbaijani tea (chai) in traditional pear-shaped glasses and qutab (Azerbaijani stuffed flatbread) to restaurants featuring Azerbaijani specialties including plov (national rice dish), dolma (stuffed grape leaves), kebabs, lavangi (fish/chicken with walnut filling), dushbara (tiny dumplings), and international cuisine, travelers can enjoy dining options across different price points and preferences. Many dining outlets emphasize local ingredients and Azerbaijani culinary traditions alongside quick-service options for time-pressed travelers. The dining areas are positioned strategically within the terminal buildings, ensuring passengers have easy access to refreshments regardless of their departure area. Convenient food and beverage outlets ensure travelers have access to both familiar international options and authentic Azerbaijani cuisine throughout 24/7 operating hours, with options well-suited to the airport's diverse passenger demographic including diaspora Azerbaijanis, Russian tourists, European travelers, and regional passengers.

Technology and Innovation at Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport

Modern Airport Systems

The airport prioritizes efficiency through its implementation of contemporary check-in and security systems. Self-service check-in options, biometric systems for passenger processing, advanced flight information display system (FIDS), digital wayfinding, and streamlined security processes help expedite the departure and arrival processes, while thorough security screening maintains high standards aligned with international requirements and successfully passed APEX in Safety evaluation. Heydar Aliyev International Airport has incorporated necessary technological innovations including modern passenger processing systems and practical infrastructure enhancements throughout the facility, supporting the operational efficiency essential for an airport serving as Azerbaijan's primary gateway and experiencing exceptional growth in passenger volumes and transit operations.

Important Strategic Context: Following the 2022 Ukraine invasion and subsequent European airline rerouting to avoid Russian airspace, Baku's strategic position increased dramatically. The airport serves as a crucial transit hub connecting Europe and Asia, with Azerbaijan's airspace handling 162,500+ flights in H1 2025 (20% increase year-over-year), of which 77% were transit operations. This positions Baku as an essential air corridor between continents and significantly contributes to the airport's growing importance in regional connectivity.

Digital Connectivity

Free WiFi throughout the terminals keeps travelers connected (though quality can be unreliable), while clear multilingual information displays provide updated flight details and gate assignments in Azerbaijani, Russian, and English. The airport's digital infrastructure supports modern payment methods across retail and dining outlets, with credit cards, contactless payments, and Azerbaijani Manat (AZN) cash widely accepted. Clear signage and information screens ensure passengers stay informed about flights and airport services, reflecting Baku's focus on serving an international clientele from Europe, Russia, the Middle East, and the extensive Azerbaijani diaspora with effective communication.

Passenger Services and Facilities

Comfort and Convenience

Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport provides facilities designed for traveler comfort with attention to practical needs. The terminals feature well-maintained restrooms, comfortable seating areas, and accessible services for passengers with reduced mobility. The airport ensures necessary amenities are readily available, including currency exchange services (offering competitive rates for USD, EUR, RUB, and other currencies), ATMs, information desks with multilingual staff, rest areas, medical services, baby care facilities, prayer rooms, barbershop, pharmacy, and business amenities appropriate for the diverse mix of diaspora travelers, tourists, and business visitors who choose Baku as their South Caucasus gateway.

VIP Services and Lounges

Dedicated services for premium passengers include VIP lounges offering comfortable seating, complimentary WiFi, refreshments, and a quiet environment. VIP meet-and-greet services are available for travelers seeking enhanced assistance. The airport staff is trained to assist passengers with various needs, and facilities accommodate accessibility requirements throughout the terminals. Special assistance services ensure all travelers receive appropriate support, with the airport's efficient operations allowing for streamlined service compared to massive international airports.

Transportation Options at Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport

Airport Transfer and Taxi Services

Our premium Baku airport transfer service offers door-to-door convenience with professional English-speaking drivers and comfortable vehicles. Whether traveling alone or with a group, our diverse fleet accommodates all requirements, from executive sedans to spacious minivans. Pre-booking your Baku airport taxi guarantees fixed transparent rates and vehicle availability, regardless of your arrival time. Unlike standard taxi services, our private transfer Baku Airport service includes flight monitoring and flexible waiting times, ensuring smooth pickup even if flights are delayed. All our taxi drivers are knowledgeable about Baku's geography as well as destinations throughout Azerbaijan, providing reliable transportation to any destination.

Official airport taxi services operate from the designated taxi rank located immediately outside Terminal 1 at the arrivals area. Various taxi companies serve the airport, with typical fares to central Baku (28 May/Fountain Square area) ranging from 18-35 AZN / 10-20 USD / 10-20 EUR / £9-17 depending on traffic and exact destination. BakuTaxi (recognizable purple/red London-style cabs) operates as the official state taxi service, alongside White Cab and London Cab services. Standard metered taxi fares to central Baku typically cost 18-40 AZN / 10-23 USD / 10-23 EUR / £9-19, and most taxis accept both meters and fixed-price arrangements.

CRITICAL WARNING: Similar to other regional airports, individual taxi drivers often approach passengers in the arrivals hall or immediately outside offering rides at negotiated prices. These unofficial taxis frequently charge significantly higher rates (sometimes 50-100 AZN / 29-58 USD / 29-58 EUR / £25-49 or more - up to 5 times normal rates) and engage in aggressive price negotiations. We strongly recommend avoiding these drivers and using either official taxi services, ride-sharing apps, pre-booked transfers, or the airport bus instead. If you don't feel comfortable haggling or want guaranteed fair pricing, always use official services.

However, pre-booking a private Baku airport taxi through our service eliminates waiting times, price negotiations, and ensures a premium experience with a confirmed English-speaking driver. Our Baku airport to city centre rates are transparent and fixed (starting from 14 AZN / 8 USD / 8 EUR / £7), offering excellent value and certainty compared to airport taxi services, especially important for international visitors unfamiliar with Azerbaijani language, local geography, or appropriate price levels. For travelers arriving late at night (when bus services have reduced frequency) or with substantial luggage, our pre-booked service provides essential peace of mind and protection from potential communication difficulties or significant overcharging.

Ride-Sharing Services

Bolt, Yango, and Uber ride-sharing apps operate in Baku and are available for airport pickups, offering competitive pricing typically ranging from 10-18 AZN / 6-10 USD / 6-10 EUR / £5-8 for Economy class and 15-25 AZN / 9-14 USD / 9-15 EUR / £7-12 for Comfort class trips to central Baku depending on demand and traffic. Yango is particularly noteworthy as it maintains an official airport partnership with a dedicated booking kiosk in the arrivals hall, allowing passengers to book rides before exiting the terminal building. Bolt is very popular among locals and generally offers reliable service with transparent pricing. The airport has free WiFi throughout the terminals, though quality can be unreliable - having a local SIM card or eSIM is strongly recommended for reliability when using ride-sharing apps. Passengers should note that surge pricing can increase costs during peak hours (early morning, late afternoon, special events including Formula 1 Grand Prix), though even surge prices remain reasonable. Pickup locations are designated areas outside the terminal - follow app instructions carefully.

Important: Always verify the driver's license plate, photo, and name match the app before entering the vehicle. Some fraudulent drivers approach passengers claiming to be "Bolt," "Yango," or "Uber" drivers - legitimate drivers will never solicit passengers in person; all bookings must be made through the app.

Public Transportation Connections

Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport is connected by public bus service, making bus travel the most economical option for solo budget travelers. The primary bus route serving the airport is:

AeroExpress Bus (Airport Express) - Primary route:

• Cost: 1.30 AZN / 0.75 USD / 0.76 EUR / £0.63 per journey with reloadable BakıKart (2 AZN card purchase, reusable for all Baku public transport)
• Alternative: 1.50 AZN / 0.87 USD / 0.87 EUR / £0.73 per journey with disposable BakıKart (free card)
• Frequency: Every 20 minutes from approximately 07:00-23:00; every 45 minutes from 23:00-07:00
• Journey time: 30-40 minutes to central Baku depending on traffic
• Route: Airport → Koroglu Metro Station (15 minutes) → 28 May Metro Station + Railway Station (city center)
• Operation: 24/7 service (confirmed as of 2025)
• Bus stop location: Outside Terminal 1 arrivals exit - clearly marked "AeroExpress" or "Airport Express" signage near taxi stand and parking area; look for modern air-conditioned buses/minibuses
• Payment: BakıKart REQUIRED - reloadable plastic card OR disposable single-use card; cash payment NOT accepted on bus; purchase BakıKart at kiosk in Terminal 1 arrivals hall
• Same BakıKart valid for: Baku Metro and all city buses

Important Public Transport Notes:

• Connection to Metro: At 28 May or Koroglu stations, transfer to Baku Metro for 0.50 AZN / 0.29 USD per ride (standard metro fare as of March 2025)
• Metro operation: Approximately 06:00-00:00 midnight; single north-south line with 10 stations covers major city areas
• BakıKart essential: Cash NOT accepted on buses; must purchase BakıKart at airport kiosk before boarding
• Night service frequency: Reduced to hourly 23:00-07:00; daytime service every 20 minutes
• Luggage space: Limited on buses; can be crowded during peak hours

Many visitors prefer the comfort and convenience of a pre-arranged Baku airport to hotel service, particularly when traveling with luggage, arriving during late hours when bus service has limited frequency, heading to destinations not directly served by bus routes, or when language barriers make public transport navigation challenging. Our taxi service offers the most flexible and comfortable option for direct hotel transfers, especially valuable for travelers who prioritize convenience after international flights, families with children and luggage, business travelers with tight schedules, diaspora visitors with elderly relatives, or visitors arriving during late-night or early-morning hours.

Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport's Role in Regional Connectivity

Gateway to Azerbaijan and the Azerbaijani Diaspora

Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport serves as Azerbaijan's primary aviation gateway and a crucial connector for the global Azerbaijani diaspora, providing direct access to Baku as well as convenient connections throughout Azerbaijan and neighboring countries. The facility's operational efficiency and extensive connections to Russia, Europe, and the Middle East make it an ideal entry point for diaspora Azerbaijanis visiting their ancestral homeland, tourists exploring ancient Silk Road heritage and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, business visitors attending meetings in Azerbaijan's capital particularly related to the energy sector, Formula 1 enthusiasts attending the Baku City Circuit Grand Prix, and visitors seeking an increasingly popular destination with unique culture combining fire worship traditions, Islamic heritage, and Soviet-era architecture alongside gleaming modern developments. Baku provides excellent access to Azerbaijan's diverse attractions, the surrounding South Caucasus region including Georgia and Armenia (when borders permit), and increasingly popular destinations throughout the country, with particularly strong connectivity to Russian cities (serving large Azerbaijani diaspora communities) and European destinations.

Important Context: Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022 and resulting Western sanctions, Baku's importance as a transit hub increased significantly as European airlines rerouted flights to avoid Russian airspace. This contributed to record passenger growth with 2024 reaching 7.537 million passengers (31% increase from 2023's 5.75 million) and continued strong performance in 2025 estimated at 7.640 million passengers. Transit passenger numbers particularly surged, with 2024 seeing 373,383 transit passengers (130% increase from 2023) and 2025 reaching approximately 974,000 transit passengers (30% increase), demonstrating Baku's strengthening position as a regional transit hub.

Airlines and Destinations

As of 2025-2026, numerous airlines operate from Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport, serving 80+ destinations across more than 34 countries. The airport is served by 40 airlines total, including 18 low-cost carriers. Major carriers include:

• Russian Airlines (serving large Azerbaijani diaspora in Russia): Azimuth (Moscow Vnukovo, Mineralnye Vody), Red Wings, Ural Airlines, S7 Airlines, various charter operators
• European Airlines: Lufthansa (Frankfurt), Austrian Airlines (Vienna), Air France (Paris), Aegean Airlines (Athens), Sky Express (Athens), LOT Polish Airlines (Warsaw), Condor (Frankfurt seasonal), Eurowings (multiple German cities)
• Middle Eastern Airlines: flydubai (Dubai), Air Arabia (Sharjah), Air Arabia Abu Dhabi (Abu Dhabi), Qatar Airways (Doha), Jazeera Airways (Kuwait), Middle East Airlines (Beirut)
• Regional & Neighboring Countries: Georgian Airways (Tbilisi year-round), Armenia Airways (Tehran seasonal), Air Astana (Almaty, Nur-Sultan)
• Asian Airlines: China Southern (Urumqi year-round connecting to Asian destinations)
• Israeli Airlines: Arkia (Tel Aviv)
• Flag Carrier: Azerbaijan Airlines (AZAL) - primary carrier with extensive domestic and international network; carried 3.314 million passengers in 2024

The busiest routes from Baku include Moscow (multiple airports), Dubai, Tehran, Tbilisi, Vienna, and Athens, reflecting strong diaspora connections, regional business travel particularly in energy sector, and increasing tourism flows. August 2024 set an all-time record for passenger traffic at the airport.

Tourism, Diaspora, Energy Industry, and Business Hub

As Azerbaijan's key aviation facility, Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport caters to diverse traveler needs with efficient services and practical amenities. The airport's strategic location provides remarkably convenient access to both Baku and Azerbaijan's regions, with visitors coming for Azerbaijan's status as the "Land of Fire" with ancient fire worship heritage, UNESCO World Heritage Sites (including Gobustan Rock Art, Old City of Baku with Maiden Tower and Shirvanshah's Palace, and Sheki Historic Center), dramatic Caucasus mountain landscapes, Caspian Sea waterfront, unique culture blending Turkic, Persian, and Russian influences, wine and food heritage, diaspora homeland connections, energy industry business opportunities (oil and gas sector), Formula 1 Grand Prix events at Baku City Circuit, and the appeal of Azerbaijani hospitality. Our Baku airport transfer service offers reliable transportation for all visitors, particularly for diaspora Azerbaijanis reconnecting with ancestral homeland, business travelers in the energy sector, Formula 1 attendees, cultural tourists exploring Baku's blend of medieval and ultra-modern architecture, and visitors with limited time who value the airport's reasonable proximity to central Baku (just 25-35 minutes by car under normal conditions).

Exploring Baku from Baku Heydar Aliyev International Airport

Local Attractions in Baku

The Baku airport to city centre route leads to attractions like the Old City (Icherisheher) - UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring 12th century walled medieval city with 22 hectares enclosed by stone walls 8-10 meters tall, the Maiden Tower (Giz Galasi) - 12th century iconic tower standing 29.5 meters tall with panoramic city and Caspian Sea views, Palace of the Shirvanshahs - 15th century (1411-1420) former royal residence and UNESCO site with Persian-influenced architecture, Flame Towers - three flame-shaped skyscrapers (tallest 182m) with 10,000+ LED lights animating flames nightly creating Baku's iconic modern skyline, Heydar Aliyev Center - Zaha Hadid architectural masterpiece (2012) with fluid wave-like white exterior awarded "Design of the Year 2014", Baku Boulevard (Seaside National Park) - 25 km waterfront promenade established 1909 featuring Baku Eye Ferris wheel, Little Venice gondola rides, and Musical Fountain, Ateshgah Fire Temple (Surakhani) - 17th-18th century Zoroastrian temple 30 km from center with natural gas flame, Yanar Dag (Burning Mountain) - natural gas fire burning continuously on hillside (3m wide, 1m high flame), Bibiheybat Mosque - 13th century original destroyed 1936 and rebuilt 1990s with 5,000+ capacity, Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum - world's largest collection (14,000+ items) in building shaped like rolled carpet showcasing UNESCO Intangible Heritage of Azerbaijani carpet weaving, Museum of Miniature Books - Guinness Record largest private collection (6,500+ books from 64 countries), Highland Park (Dagustu Park) - Alley of Martyrs memorial with Flame Towers viewpoint and funicular access offering sunset views, Fountain Square - pedestrian zone with cafes and lively social atmosphere, Nizami Street - main pedestrian shopping boulevard with international brands and 19th-century oil-boom architecture, Yashil Bazaar (Green Market) - traditional covered market with fresh produce, spices, dried fruits, and nuts, Baku Eye Ferris wheel - National Flag Square location at ~60m height offering Caspian Sea panoramas, Azerbaijan State Opera and Ballet Theater - neoclassical architecture with affordable tickets (30-80 AZN / 17-46 USD), Baku Formula 1 Grand Prix - late April/May or September featuring Baku City Circuit street racing through Old City, traditional hammam bathhouse experiences (Agha Mikayil, Agha Zeynal, 30-100 AZN / 17-58 USD), and Azerbaijani cuisine including plov (national dish), dolma, kebabs, qutab, dushbara, lavangi, pakhlava, and shah plov accompanied by Azerbaijani tea (chai) served in pear-shaped glasses. The enchanting streets of Baku showcase distinctive limestone architecture glowing honey-gold creating the city's unique aesthetic combining medieval heritage with ultra-modern oil-wealth developments. Our Baku airport transfer services provide convenient transportation to these locations and other points of interest throughout Baku.