This year, the number of organized travelers on Russia’s domestic air network is projected to reach about 10 million. The estimate comes from industry observers who track the activity of tour operators across the country. It reflects a steady shift in how Russians choose to explore their own vast geography, with more travelers booking packaged trips that include flights, accommodations, and guided experiences rather than piecing trips together independently. The rise in organized travel signals growing confidence in regional tourism, longer stays, and a more structured approach to domestic itineraries. The total volume of domestic air travel remains large, underscoring how crucial flights are for moving people between Russia’s many regions. In recent years, carriers have increasingly tailored offerings for groups and tour packages, which helps to stabilize demand throughout the year.
Organized tours are expected to account for a much bigger slice of domestic air travel, rising from around 20 percent to roughly 40 percent of all passengers flying within the country. Meanwhile, more than 40 percent of all travelers on Russian routes are projected to be carried by Aeroflot, with a strategy that emphasizes routes that bypass Moscow to better serve distant markets. This shift pushes several regional airports into the spotlight and prompts airlines to strengthen partnerships with tour operators. The move aligns capacity with demand as travelers seek convenient, turnkey experiences. It also means more predictable schedules for operators who design complete travel packages.
Industry forecasts indicate that in 2024 about 84 million people will fly on domestic routes inside Russia. At the same time, the share of independent and organized travelers on these flights is expected to rise from 20 percent to 30 percent, reaching approximately 25 million passengers. The growth reflects a more dynamic domestic market, where both individuals and organized groups are traveling more often as regional destinations gain popularity and accessibility improves. The expansion is supported by investments in regional airports, improved rail links, and a broader menu of affordable tour options. The data also suggest that packaged tours are increasingly attractive to travelers seeking value and reliability in uncertain times.
Experts note that closer cooperation between airlines and tour operators yields mutual benefits and rising volumes. The tighter collaboration helps airlines fill seats and maintain route viability, while operators can offer more stable access to a variety of destinations. A reduction in international flight activity has redirected some capacity to domestic corridors, further fueling the domestic travel push. In addition, organized-tour packages often come with lower costs for travelers, with services priced about one-fifth cheaper on average compared to independent travel. This price gap makes fully planned trips appealing to families, groups, and first-time visitors exploring multiple regions.
During an October government briefing, senior officials highlighted the uptick in Russian tourism activity and noted stronger domestic mobility. The conversation pointed to a growing willingness among residents to explore beyond traditional hubs and to spend longer on domestic itineraries. Earlier, officials identified five promising directions for domestic tourism, signaling a strategic emphasis on developing new regional attractions, improving infrastructure, and building a more resilient tourism sector. The current trend suggests that Russia is increasingly leveraging its diverse landscapes and cultural assets to attract travelers from across the nation.