MIAT Mongolian Airlines: Mongolia's Intercontinental Links
Founded in 1954 as a state flag carrier, MIAT Mongolian Airlines remains the country's main long-haul carrier, operating from the new Chinggis Khaan international airport in Ulaanbaatar, opened in 2021. It is the most direct way to reach Mongolia from Europe and Asia without connecting elsewhere.
History and positioning
As a flag carrier, MIAT has accompanied Mongolia's international opening from the post-war period to today, keeping a strategic role even in a market where competition on some intercontinental routes remains scarce or nonexistent.
The fleet
The fleet combines Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft for regional routes and Boeing 767 aircraft for long haul, a combination that reflects the airline's dual role between short Asian links and longer intercontinental ones to Europe.
Routes and network
From Ulaanbaatar, MIAT flies to Frankfurt, Moscow, Istanbul, Tokyo, Seoul, Beijing, Hong Kong and Bangkok, in several cases offering the only direct link available on that specific route.
On board and service
On intercontinental flights with the 767, the cabin offering follows the standard of a traditional scheduled airline, with hot meals included in the fare even in economy class, a feature that has been progressively cut back on many competing long-haul routes.
It is the most direct choice for those who want to avoid a stopover in Beijing or Seoul to reach Mongolia. It is less suitable for those looking for the absolute lowest fare, since the limited competition on some routes tends to keep prices high. A practical tip: frequencies on intercontinental flights are often only a few departures a week, so book well in advance if the rest of your trip depends on that connection.
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