Cluj-Napoca International Airport, known as Avram Iancu International Airport, serves as a welcoming gateway to Transylvania, offering a compact and efficient experience for travellers. For those researching online, key terms like Cluj-Napoca airport guide, CLJ airport experience, Cluj-Napoca transit options, CLJ terminal layout, Cluj-Napoca flight delays, CLJ dining choices, Cluj-Napoca airport shops, CLJ passenger facilities, Cluj-Napoca on-time performance, and CLJ flight connections unlock practical insights about this regional hub.
The passenger experience at CLJ, Romania’s second-busiest airport, is shaped by its manageable size and modern facilities. Handling around 3 million passengers annually, it connects to 44 destinations across 18 countries with airlines like Wizz Air, Ryanair, Lufthansa, and Turkish Airlines. The recently expanded terminal, with a 7,200-square-metre extension completed in 2024, features clear signage and a straightforward layout, though peak hours can feel crowded due to limited gate space. Travellers enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, with local touches like Transylvanian art displays adding character to the journey.
Accessing the airport from Cluj-Napoca’s city centre, 9 kilometres away, is straightforward. Public bus lines 5 and 8, operated by CTP Cluj-Napoca, run every 10-20 minutes from 4:55 am. to 10:38 pm, connecting to Mihai Viteazul Square or the main train station in about 30 minutes for just 3 Romanian lei (£0.15).
Taxis, available outside arrivals, cost around £5 for a 20-minute ride, though fares rise to 3 lei per kilometre at night. Car rental agencies like Sixt, Hertz, and Autonom are located on-site, and a multi-storey car park offers 800 spaces at approximately £1 per hour. Pre-booked private transfers provide a hassle-free option for added comfort.
The airport’s layout consists of two terminals—domestic and international—housed in a single, two-storey building. The ground floor handles check-in, arrivals, and security, while the upper floor features boarding gates and a small waiting area. Nine gates, including three added in 2024, serve all flights, but buses are often used for boarding, which can confuse travellers expecting direct gate access. The compact design ensures short walking distances, though the limited number of check-in desks (10) and gates can lead to congestion during morning or evening peaks. Ongoing expansion work may cause temporary disruptions, so checking airport updates is advisable.
Delays are infrequent but can occur due to weather, particularly winter snow, or operational bottlenecks like limited gate availability and slow baggage handling. Overcrowded waiting areas, especially when multiple flights depart simultaneously, have been reported, with some travellers describing cramped conditions. Monitoring flight statuses via airline apps or airport screens helps avoid surprises, and arriving 2-3 hours early is recommended to navigate potential queues.
Dining options include Brava Cafe, Coffee Air, and Express Airport Restaurant, offering Moldovan and international cuisine, though no outlets operate 24 hours. Vending machines provide late-night snacks, and prices remain reasonable compared to larger airports. Retail features duty-free shops open from 3:30 am. to 9:00 pm, selling perfumes, alcohol, and Transylvanian souvenirs, alongside convenience stores and a shop for religious items. An electronic library via the Bookmate app offers access to over 800,000 books, adding a unique touch for waiting passengers.
Facilities cater to diverse needs, with free Wi-Fi available throughout, charging stations in gate areas, and a multifaith chapel on the upper level of departures. A medical aid unit operates 24 hours, and accessibility features include ramps, lifts, and staff assistance for passengers with reduced mobility. Two lounges, one in each terminal, offer snacks and beverages for a fee, though seating in public areas can be uncomfortable for long waits. A smoking area near gates B5-B6 and designated outdoor zones accommodate smokers. Nearby hotels like Travelodge and Premier Inn, within walking distance, provide rest options for layovers.
On-time performance is generally reliable, supported by the airport’s modest size and focus on European routes. However, simultaneous departures, especially around 6 am, can strain resources, leading to delays in boarding or baggage claim. Connections are seamless within the single terminal, with no need for inter-terminal transfers, though international passengers may face additional customs checks, adding time.
Cluj-Napoca International Airport offers a functional and traveller-friendly experience, blending modern amenities with Transylvanian character. With ongoing improvements and easy access to the city, it serves as an efficient hub for exploring Romania and beyond.
