AirlinePros

Mongolia

Country facts

Market overview

Mongolia’s vast expanses and nomadic heritage make its aviation sector vital for connecting its sprawling landscapes and remote communities. The aviation market in this landlocked nation has evolved over the years, primarily driven by the country’s increasing integration with the global economy and the growing demand for both domestic and international connectivity. 

Chinggis Khaan International Airport in Ulaanbaatar, the capital city, is the primary international gateway to Mongolia. Handling the bulk of international traffic, this airport connects Mongolia to several major cities in Asia and a few destinations in Europe. With the rise of tourism, especially for those drawn to Mongolia’s unique cultural festivals and pristine natural landscapes, there has been a steady increase in international arrivals. 

MIAT Mongolian Airlines, commonly known as MIAT, is the flag carrier and the most prominent airline in the country. Offering both domestic and international services, MIAT plays a critical role in linking Mongolia to the rest of the world. The domestic aviation scene is also served by other carriers like Aero Mongolia and Hunnu Air, which provide essential connections between Ulaanbaatar and the country’s more remote regions. Given Mongolia’s vast terrain and the limited reach of road and rail infrastructure, air travel remains the most efficient way to traverse the nation. 

While the aviation market in Mongolia has shown promise, it also faces challenges. The extreme climatic conditions, with harsh winters and short summers, can impact flight operations. Additionally, the need for substantial investments in aviation infrastructure, including airport facilities and modern air traffic management systems, is evident to keep pace with growing demand and ensure safety standards. 

Mongolia’s aviation market stands as a testament to the country’s evolving socio-economic landscape and its increasing global interconnectivity. As Mongolia continues to harness its economic potential, particularly in sectors like mining and tourism, the aviation industry will undoubtedly play a crucial role in its development trajectory. With strategic investments and partnerships, Mongolia’s skies hold much promise for the future. 

Soyongiikh Nasanbuyan

Managing Partner

A towering figure in the world of aviation and travel, Soyongiikh Nasanbuyan has over two decades of experience to her name, with a career marked by excellence, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to customer service. Her foray into the industry was in Ulaanbaatar, where she served as a Travel Coordinator for Korean Air. In this role, she demonstrated an acute understanding of the ticketing process, sales, and the art of customer service. Her work ethic and commitment to her role didn’t go unnoticed, as she was named Employee of the Year for three years in a row, a testament to her dedication and professionalism.

Building upon her successes with Korean Air, Soyongiikh accepted the role of General Manager at a prominent travel agency in Ulaanbataar that specialized in both outbound tourism to the United States as well as inbound tourism to Mongolia. This provided her with a broader perspective on the intricacies of international travel and tourism, helping her develop a holistic view of the sector. Soyongiikh’s desire to grow further saw her transition into the world of air cargo as the General Manager of a company specializing in the field, where she mastered the logistics of air freight, adding even more expertise to her resume.

Recognizing the vast wealth of knowledge she had accumulated over the years, Sabre roped her in as a trainer, where she passionately imparted her experiences to the next generation, ensuring that what she learned would serve as a foundation for others in the industry. She then ventured into aviation sales, a critical component of the aviation ecosystem, where she represented Hong Kong Airlines in Mongolia for six years. Her vast experience makes her an invaluable asset to airline clients, helping them navigate the complexities of the industry and propelling them on, setting new benchmarks in service quality and customer satisfaction.