Chișinău Eugen Doga International Airport, Moldova’s primary aviation hub, offers a welcoming and efficient experience for travellers passing through its modernised terminal. For those researching online, key terms like Chișinău airport guide, RMO airport experience, Chișinău transit options, Chișinău airport layout, RMO flight delays, Chișinău dining, Chișinău duty-free shops, airport facilities RMO, Chișinău flight connections, and Moldova airport performance help unlock practical insights about this compact yet functional airport.
The passenger experience at Chișinău’s airport is straightforward, shaped by its single-terminal design that caters to both domestic and international flights. Serving as the base for Air Moldova and hosting airlines like Wizz Air, Turkish Airlines, and Fly One, the airport connects to over 60 destinations across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. The terminal, renovated in 2002, feels modern with clear signage and a relaxed atmosphere. With a capacity of 5.4 million passengers annually, it handles around 2.31 million travellers each year, ensuring a manageable flow through its facilities.
Accessing the airport from Chișinău’s city centre, located 13 kilometres away, is convenient and affordable. The Route 30 trolleybus runs frequently, linking the airport to downtown in about 30 minutes for just 3 Moldovan lei (approximately £0.15). Minibus 165 also operates every 10 minutes from early morning to 10 pm, following a route through key city avenues.
Taxis are readily available at the arrivals hall, with fares to the city centre around 100 Moldovan lei (£5), though travellers should confirm prices beforehand. Private transfers can be pre-booked for a seamless journey, and a multi-storey car park with 800 spaces caters to drivers, offering both short- and long-term parking options.
The airport’s layout is simple, housed within a single two-storey terminal. The ground floor features check-in counters, passport control, and departure gates, with duty-free shops conveniently located nearby. The second floor offers a spacious waiting area, a children’s play zone, and a VIP lounge for added comfort. The compact design ensures easy navigation, though the limited number of check-in desks (10) and gates (5) can lead to congestion during peak hours, particularly in the morning and evening.
Delays are uncommon but can arise from weather conditions or operational bottlenecks, such as limited gate availability or slow baggage handling. Travellers should monitor flight statuses via airline apps or the airport’s information desks to stay informed.
Security and customs processes are generally efficient, though past reviews mention inconsistent staff instructions, so patience may be needed during busy periods.
Dining options at Chișinău airport cater to a range of tastes, with cafes, restaurants, and fast-food outlets open 24 hours. Travellers can enjoy Moldovan dishes or international fare, including fresh sandwiches at the Green Café near arrivals or coffee at the second-floor café. Prices are reasonable compared to larger airports, making dining accessible. Retail includes duty-free shops offering perfumes, alcohol, and souvenirs, alongside a florist, gift shop, and electronics store. An electronic library, accessible via the Bookmate app, provides over 800,000 books in multiple languages, adding a unique touch for waiting passengers.
Facilities enhance the airport’s appeal, with free Wi-Fi available for five hours across three days, ample charging points, and a 24-hour medical aid unit on the first floor. A pharmacy, baby-changing rooms, and a mother-and-child area cater to families, while accessibility features like lifts, designated parking, and staff assistance ensure inclusivity for passengers with reduced mobility. A visitors’ terrace on the second floor offers a spot for plane spotting, and a conference room for up to 15 people is available for business travellers.
On-time performance is generally reliable, supported by the airport’s modest size and focus on European routes. However, peak travel times can strain resources, leading to occasional delays in check-in or boarding. Connections are straightforward due to the single-terminal setup, with no need for inter-terminal transfers. International passengers may face additional customs checks, which could slow transitions, so arriving 2-3 hours early is advisable.
Chișinău Eugen Doga International Airport combines practicality with local flavour, offering a smooth and comfortable experience for travellers. With ongoing upgrades, including runway and taxiway improvements, it remains a functional gateway to Moldova and beyond.
FlyOne
FlyOne operates direct flights to Ireland (Dublin) from Chișinău International Airport’s single terminal. As a low-cost carrier, check-in is in the international departures hall; desks are assigned per flight. Dedicated FlyOne counters in departures (desks 1-10, assigned on screens)
Check-in opens 3 hours before; closes 60 minutes prior. Online check-in 7 days to 4 hours before; airport fee 36-40 EUR if not pre-done. Bag drop after online; desks announced via monitors.
Departure Gates are the main terminal gates (1-15 for international/Schengen). Gates assigned dynamically; for Dublin, often gates 5-10. Boarding 30 minutes before; gates close 10-15 minutes prior. Compact airport; confirm via FlyOne app or screens.
HiSky
HiSky’s direct flights to Ireland (Dublin) depart from Chișinău International Airport’s single terminal. Check-in is in the international departures area; as a low-cost carrier, online check-in is encouraged. Dedicated HiSky counters in departures (desks 1-10, assigned on screens). Check-in opens 3 hours before; closes 60 minutes prior. Online check-in 7 days to 4 hours before; airport fee if not pre-done. Bag drop after online; desks vary by flight.
Departure Gates 1-15 in main terminal (5-10 for international to Ireland). Gates assigned dynamically; boarding 30 minutes before, closes 10-15 minutes prior. Use HiSky app or screens for updates.
