Ulyanovsk-Vostochny International Airport, operated by Aviastar-SP from 2008, has a unique runway, the largest in Europe - 5,100 m long and 105 m wide. The runway places no limits on take-off weight and can handle all modern airliners produced by any company.
The airport has international status and meets all applicable standards. Its principal activity today is flight and airworthiness tests, and it has ground personnel numbering 370. Its infrastructure and geographic location favour the development of a special economic zone around it.
To be successful, the airport needs upgrading. Its business plan sets investment requirements at 1.5 billion roubles through 2010 - enough to make the complex pay its way, develop passenger and cargo services and promote the Ulyanovsk Region's trade and business ties. The investments are expected to be recouped within seven years.