Yes, Novosibirsk Tolmachevo Airport (OVB) has designated indoor smoking rooms in both the domestic and international terminals. Enclosed rooms with ventilation systems are available after security in the departure areas. Outdoor smoking areas are at ground level outside both terminal buildings.
Novosibirsk Tolmachevo Airport (OVB) is the main gateway to Siberia, serving Russia’s third-largest city and the unofficial capital of the vast Siberian region. As a major hub connecting European Russia with destinations across Central Asia, China, and the Russian Far East, Tolmachevo sees steady traffic year-round. The airport is also a key stop along the Trans-Siberian corridor, with many travelers connecting through Novosibirsk on their way to Lake Baikal, Altai, or beyond.
Smoking Policy at Tolmachevo Airport
Russia’s 2013 anti-smoking law banned indoor smoking in public buildings. A 2019 amendment, however, allowed airports to install isolated smoking rooms equipped with independent ventilation systems. Tolmachevo Airport has taken advantage of this, providing enclosed indoor smoking rooms as well as designated outdoor areas. Given that Novosibirsk winters can reach minus thirty-five degrees Celsius, the indoor rooms are not just a convenience but practically a necessity for several months of the year.
Airport Layout
Tolmachevo operates from two terminal buildings. The domestic terminal handles the bulk of the traffic, with flights to Moscow, Saint Petersburg, and cities across Siberia and the Urals. The international terminal serves routes to Central Asian capitals, China, and seasonal charter destinations. Both terminals have departures on the upper level and arrivals at ground level.
Indoor Smoking Rooms
Enclosed smoking rooms are available in the departure areas of both terminals. These rooms have ventilation systems and are clearly marked with signage. After passing through security, look for the rooms near the gate areas. They are free to use and accommodate cigarettes, heated tobacco, and e-cigarettes.
Outdoor Smoking Areas
Outdoor designated areas are located at ground level outside both terminal buildings, near the entrance and arrivals zones. These work well during the brief Siberian summer, but from October through April the temperatures make outdoor smoking a test of willpower. Wind chill can make conditions even harsher, so most smokers stick to the indoor rooms during the cold months.
Tips for Smokers at Tolmachevo Airport
- Indoor smoking rooms are essential in winter, when outdoor temperatures can drop below minus thirty
- Both the domestic and international terminals have airside smoking rooms after security
- If connecting between domestic and international flights, allow time to change terminals
- IQOS and heated tobacco products are welcome in the smoking rooms
- Stock up on cigarettes in Novosibirsk before heading to more remote Siberian destinations
- Summer months (June to August) offer surprisingly pleasant outdoor conditions
- The airport can be busy with connecting passengers, so the smoking rooms may get crowded at peak times
Summary
| Area | Smoking Allowed | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Domestic terminal smoking room (airside) | Yes | Indoor | Departure area, ventilated |
| International terminal smoking room (airside) | Yes | Indoor | Departure area, ventilated |
| Outdoor areas (ground level) | Yes | Outdoor | Outside both terminals, brutal in winter |
| Terminal interiors | No | Indoor | No smoking outside designated rooms |