list of airports in Finland

:## Exploring the Finnish Skies: A Guide to Airports in Finland

Finland, a land of stunning natural beauty, the Northern Lights, and innovative design, is becoming an increasingly popular travel destination. Whether you’re heading to Helsinki for business, exploring Lapland’s winter wonderland, or venturing into the Finnish archipelago, understanding the country’s airport network is crucial for a smooth journey. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of airports in Finland, covering everything from major international hubs to smaller regional airfields.

Major International Airports

Finland boasts several well-equipped international airports that connect the country to destinations worldwide. These airports offer a full range of services, including duty-free shopping, restaurants, car rental facilities, and convenient transportation links to city centers.

• Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL): By far the busiest airport in Finland, Helsinki-Vantaa serves as the primary international gateway. Located approximately 17 kilometers (10.6 miles) north of Helsinki city center, it handles over 20 million passengers annually. Finnair has its main hub here, and numerous airlines operate flights to and from Europe, Asia, North America, and beyond. Recent expansions and renovations have significantly improved the passenger experience.
• Rovaniemi Airport (RVN): The official airport of Santa Claus, Rovaniemi Airport is a vital hub for tourism in Finnish Lapland. It’s well-connected to Helsinki and offers seasonal direct flights to various European cities. Expect a festive atmosphere, especially during the winter months!
• Oulu Airport (OUL): Serving the city of Oulu in northern Finland, this airport is important for both business and leisure travel. It provides connections to Helsinki and a growing number of international destinations, particularly within Europe.
• Turku Airport (TKU): Located in southwestern Finland, Turku Airport primarily serves domestic and European routes. It’s a convenient option for travelers visiting the historic city of Turku and the surrounding archipelago.
• Tampere-Pirkkala Airport (TMP): Serving the Tampere region, this airport is experiencing growth in both passenger numbers and route offerings. It offers a mix of domestic, European, and some long-haul connections.

Regional Airports & Airfields

Beyond the major hubs, Finland has a network of regional airports and airfields that cater to domestic travel, business aviation, and specialized operations. These airports often play a crucial role in connecting remote communities and supporting local industries.

• Jyväskylä Airport (JYV): Serves the city of Jyväskylä and surrounding areas, primarily with domestic flights.
• Kuopio Airport (KPO): Provides access to the lake district of Finland, with domestic connections.
• Vaasa Airport (VAA): Located on the west coast, serving the Vaasa region with domestic and limited international flights.
• Kajaani Airport (KRN): Serves the Kajaani region in central Finland, mainly with domestic routes.
• Joensuu Airport (JNS): Provides air access to the North Karelia region, focusing on domestic connections.
• Savonlinna Airport (SVL): A smaller airport primarily used for general aviation and seasonal charter flights.
• Kokkola-Pietarsaari Airport (KOK): Serves the coastal cities of Kokkola and Pietarsaari, with domestic flights.
• Ivalo Airport (IVL): Another key airport in Lapland, serving the Inari region and offering access to popular ski resorts.
• Kemi/Tornio Airport (KEM): Located in Kemi, serving the Tornio region, primarily with domestic flights.

A Complete List of Finnish Airports

Here’s a table summarizing the airports in Finland, including their IATA/ICAO codes and primary service areas:

Getting To and From Finnish Airports

Most major Finnish airports offer a variety of transportation options:

• Train: Helsinki-Vantaa Airport has a direct train connection to the Helsinki Central Station.
• Bus: Regular bus services connect many airports to nearby cities and towns.
• Taxi: Taxis are readily available at all airports, but can be expensive.
• Car Rental: Numerous car rental companies operate at the major airports.
• Airport Shuttle: Some airports offer dedicated shuttle services to popular destinations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Which is the largest airport in Finland?
Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL) is the largest airport in Finland, handling the vast majority of international traffic.

2. Is it easy to get around Finland using domestic flights?
Yes, Finland has a well-developed network of domestic flights, making it easy to travel between cities and regions, especially in the north.

3. What airlines fly to Finland?
Numerous airlines serve Finland, including Finnair, SAS, Lufthansa, KLM, Norwegian, and Ryanair, among others.

4. Do Finnish airports offer free Wi-Fi?
Yes, most Finnish airports, including Helsinki-Vantaa, offer free Wi-Fi access to passengers.

5. What is the best airport to fly into for visiting Lapland?
Rovaniemi (RVN) and Ivalo (IVL) are the most convenient airports for exploring different parts of Lapland.

Resources

• Finavia (Official Airport Authority): https://www.finavia.fi/en
• Visit Finland (Tourism Information): https://www.visitfinland.com/
• Helsinki-Vantaa Airport: https://www.helsinki-vantaa.fi/en
• Rovaniemi Airport: https://www.finavia.fi/en/rovaniemi
• Wikipedia – List of Airports in Finland: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_airports_in_Finland

Enjoy your travels to Finland! With a little planning and knowledge of the airport system, you’re sure to have a memorable experience in this beautiful Nordic country.