First Flights Connect Orenburg Region and Abkhazia
On 9 July 2026, RusLine Airlines launched new international air service between Orenburg Region and Abkhazia, operating the inaugural flights on the Sukhum – Orenburg – Sukhum route.
The first flight from the Abkhazian capital was welcomed at Orenburg International Airport named after Yu. A. Gagarin with a traditional water arch salute. The inaugural departure from Orenburg to Sukhum followed shortly after. The flight recorded a load factor exceeding 70%, marking a strong start for the new international service and confirming high passenger demand for travel to Abkhazia from the region.
On arrival at Sukhum Airport, the aircraft was also greeted with a water arch — an aviation tradition marking the launch of a new route.
The launch of direct air service creates new opportunities for tourism, business cooperation, and cultural exchange between Orenburg Region and the Republic of Abkhazia.
Scheduled flights will operate once weekly until 3 September 2026. Departures from Orenburg are on Thursdays at 11:50, arriving in Sukhum at 12:35. Return flights depart on Wednesdays at 19:10, arriving in Orenburg at 00:05 the following day. Flight duration is 2 hours 45 minutes. Flights are operated on comfortable 50-seat Bombardier CRJ100/200 aircraft.
Fares start from RUB 10,137 one way, inclusive of all airline charges. Seats are limited; agent service fees may apply.
The route was launched as a joint initiative of RusLine Airlines and the Government of Orenburg Region. The new service strengthens transport links between Orenburg Region and the Republic of Abkhazia, and gives residents of the region direct access to the Black Sea coast.
Tickets are available on the RusLine website and at all airline ticket offices.
Photo and video credit: Maxim Shturm (@sturmufa) and Sukhum Airport Press Office
