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Nordwind Launches First Direct Moscow–Pyongyang Passenger Flight in Decades

The service is limited to one flight a month to build stable demand, following a sell-out first journey.

In this pool photograph distributed by the Russian state agency Sputnik, North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un (R) walks with Russian President Vladimir Putin during a welcoming ceremony upon Putin's arrival at Pyongyang Airport, early on June 19, 2024. Russian President Vladimir Putin landed in North Korea early on June 19, the Kremlin said, kicking off a visit set to boost defence ties between the two nuclear-armed countries as Moscow pursues its war in Ukraine. (Photo by Gavriil GRIGOROV / POOL / AFP) (Photo by GAVRIIL GRIGOROV/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)
People wait outside Terminal C at the Sheremetyevo international airport outside Moscow, Russia July 21, 2025. REUTERS/Stringer/File Photo
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Overview

  • The inaugural eight-hour flight departed Sheremetyevo Airport at 19:00 local time aboard a Boeing 777-200ER with 440 seats priced from 44,700 roubles ($563), all of which sold out.
  • Russia’s aviation regulator approved twice-weekly service but the transport ministry capped operations at one monthly flight to gauge passenger interest.
  • The new air link revives a connection dormant since the mid-1990s and complements the June restart of the eight-day, 10,000-kilometre Moscow–Pyongyang rail line.
  • Before this launch, the only direct route between the two countries was Air Koryo’s three-times-weekly flights between Pyongyang and Vladivostok.
  • The transport reopening coincides with deepening Russia–North Korea ties as Pyongyang has deployed over 10,000 troops and arms in support of Russia’s campaign in Ukraine.