Ownership of Moscow Airports: A Comprehensive Analysis

Moscow, the vibrant heart of Russia, is home to a bustling aviation industry. The city is served by four civilian airports, each with its own unique history and ownership structure. Understanding who owns these important infrastructures is crucial for travelers and aviation enthusiasts alike. This article delves into the ownership details of Vnukovo, Sheremetyevo, Domodedovo, and Zhukovsky airports, alongside the city's two military airbases, Chkalovsky and Kubinka. Additionally, we explore the lesser-known Ostafyevo airport.

Vnukovo International Airport (VKO)

Comprising 25% of the shares, Vladimir Skoch, a prominent Russian businessman, maintains a considerable stake in Vnukovo International Airport JSC. The Russian government, through Rosimushchestvo, holds 25% of the shares. Shareholder Vitaly Vantsev has a 13.5% stake, rounding out the major stakeholders in this prominent airport.

Sheremetyevo International Airport (SVO)

Expected to play a pivotal role in Russia's future aviation plans, Sheremetyevo International Airport is a complex mix of public and private interests. With a staggering 66.06% of the shares belonging to Sheremetyevo Holding LLC, the airport's governance is deeply intertwined with the influential family assets of Alexander Ponomarenko and Alexander Skorobogatko. Surprisingly, Arkady Rotenberg, a close friend of President Putin and a billionaire with diverse business interests, owns 34.78% of the shares, showcasing the intertwining of politics and business in the sector. Lastly, the Russian government, through the Federal Property Management Agency, owns 30.46% of the shares. Aeroflot PJSC and VEB Capital LLC, an affiliate of the state-owned Vneshekonombank (International Commerce Bank), hold 2.43% and 1.05% of the shares, respectively.

Domodedovo International Airport (DME)

Dominated by Dmitry Kamenshchik as the beneficial owner, DME is a significant player in Moscow's aviation sector. The fate of the remaining shares is somewhat uncertain, with Rostec State Corporation holding 25 shares. The remaining 75 shares are split between Boris Aleshin and United Airports Management LLC. The latter is an affiliate of the Dutch company United Airports Management B.V., whose beneficiaries are undisclosed, adding a layer of intrigue to the airport's ownership structure.

Zhukovsky Airbase (ZIA)

While primarily known for hosting the Russian Knights and The Swifts aerobatic teams, Zhukovsky airbase, known as ZIA, is also a crucial asset. Owned by RAMPORT AERO JSC, the company itself has 25 shares. Notably, Rostec State Corporation owns one share, highlighting the military-industrial complex's involvement. The remaining 75 shares (minus one) are distributed between Boris Aleshin and United Airports Management LLC, further emphasizing the collaborative nature of Russia's aviation infrastructure.

Military Airbases: Chkalovsky and Kubinka

While not civilian airports, Chkalovsky and Kubinka Airbases are integral to Russia's defense and civilian air traffic systems. Chkalovsky is the home of Emercom Aviation, a governmental department responsible for emergency management. Kubinka is renowned for its air shows and aerobatic performances, attracting aviation enthusiasts from around the world.

Ostafyevo Airbase (OSF)

Less known and primarily used for military purposes, Ostafyevo Airbase is owned by the Defense Ministry. It is shared by military transport squadrons, the Navy, and Gazprom Avia, contributing to Russia's robust military aviation infrastructure.

Keywords: Moscow Airports, Commercial Airports, Military Airbases

Conclusion: Understanding the ownership of major airports in Moscow reveals a complex interplay of public and private interests. From Vnukovo and Sheremetyevo, serving a diverse array of travelers, to the lesser-known Ostafyevo Airbase, every airport in the region plays a unique role in supporting Russia's aviation and defense industries.