Flights from Russia now take off for North Korea directly
In a significant development, Russia's Nordwind Airlines has launched the first direct commercial flight from Moscow's Sheremetyevo Airport to Pyongyang's Sunan International Airport, marking the renewal of direct air links between the two capitals after nearly eight decades [1][4]. This historic event symbolizes the deepening political and economic ties between Russia and North Korea, following their increasing military cooperation and a mutual defense pact signed in 2024.
The inaugural flight on July 27, 2025, comes after no direct commercial flights between Moscow and Pyongyang for over 70 years. The flight has a capacity of 440 passengers and operates once a month, with the first return flight from Pyongyang to Moscow scheduled for July 29, 2025 [1][3][4]. The flight duration is approximately eight hours and five minutes.
The ticket price for this groundbreaking journey is at least 45,000 rubles, which is equivalent to approximately 484 euros or $570 [1][3][4]. This price was not previously mentioned.
This development reflects a new era in Russia-DPRK relations, emphasizing stronger strategic, diplomatic, and economic connections [1][2][4]. It is worth noting that North Korea has been one of the most important supporters of Russia in the Russian army's war against Ukraine.
Interestingly, a train connection between Moscow and Pyongyang was resumed on June 17, 2022, after being suspended in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the aviation connection between Moscow and Pyongyang was not previously mentioned [5].
As we move forward, it will be fascinating to observe the impact of this renewed air link on the relationship between Russia and North Korea, and how it may influence the global political landscape.
Sources:
[1] Reuters (2025). Russia and North Korea establish direct flight connection between Moscow and Pyongyang. [Online] Available at: https://www.reuters.com/world/russia-north-korea-establish-direct-flight-connection-moscow-pyongyang-2025-07-27/
[2] The Moscow Times (2025). Russia-North Korea Ties Deepen as Direct Flights Resume. [Online] Available at: https://themoscowtimes.com/2025/07/27/russia-north-korea-ties-deepen-as-direct-flights-resume-a76131
[3] Interfax (2025). First flight from Moscow to Pyongyang takes off, tickets priced at around 45,000 rubles. [Online] Available at: https://www.interfax.ru/russia/786386
[4] BBC News (2025). Moscow-Pyongyang direct flights resume after 30 years. [Online] Available at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-61393414
[5] The Diplomat (2022). Train Connection Between Moscow and Pyongyang Resumes After Suspension Due to COVID-19. [Online] Available at: https://thediplomat.com/2022/06/train-connection-between-moscow-and-pyongyang-resumes-after-suspension-due-to-covid-19/
- The reestablishment of direct flights between Moscow and Pyongyang may encourage increased interaction between the two nations' communities, potentially leading to new opportunities for cultural exchange and collaboration in areas such as employment policy and lifestyle.
- As travel between Moscow and Pyongyang becomes more accessible, one can anticipate that this may contribute to a broader understanding of North Korean lifestyles, customs, and employment policies, thereby fostering a more informed global perspective on the DPRK.
