Kuressaare Airport (URE/EEKE): Your Essential Gateway to Saaremaa Island
Kuressaare Airport (URE/EEKE) serves as the vital aerial link to Saaremaa, Estonia’s largest and most popular island, famous for its historic Kuressaare Castle, rich natural beauty, and highly regarded spa culture. Positioned just 3 km (less than 2 miles) from the city centre of Kuressaare, the airport offers travelers immediate access to the island’s main attractions, making it the most convenient option for domestic travel.
Operated by AS Tallinna Lennujaam (Tallinn Airport Ltd.), URE facilitates essential Public Service Obligation (PSO) routes, ensuring year-round connectivity for both local residents and a rapidly growing number of tourists.
General Airport Information and Infrastructure
Kuressaare Airport is designed for regional efficiency, featuring robust infrastructure that meets the demands of regular propeller aircraft services.
| Feature | Details |
| Location | Kuressaare, Saaremaa Island (approx. 3 km southeast of city center) |
| IATA/ICAO Codes | URE / EEKE |
| Primary Function | Facilitates essential regional flights and tourism-related travel. |
| Runways | Two asphalt runways: 17/35 (2,000 m / 6,562 ft) and 05/23 (799 m / 2,621 ft). |
| Operator | AS Tallinna Lennujaam (Tallinn Airport Ltd.) |
| Sustainability Goal | Committed to achieving CO₂ neutral operations by 2025. |
Airlines and Destinations
Kuressaare Airport specializes in short-haul domestic routes, which are critical for maintaining continuous service between the island and the Estonian mainland.
- Main Airline (Tallinn Route): NyxAir (operating flights on behalf of the regional authority).
- Primary Destination: Tallinn (TLL) – Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport. This route is the core connection, operating multiple times a week.
- Secondary Destination: Ruhnu (Ruhnu Airfield). This remote island route is typically operated by smaller regional carriers like Diamond Sky to serve the isolated Ruhnu community.
- Seasonal Charter Potential: While primarily domestic, the airport’s infrastructure allows for occasional charter flights, particularly during peak summer or festival seasons, opening potential routes to nearby Baltic or Nordic capitals.
Terminal Facilities and Passenger Services
The airport features a single, compact terminal that is well-maintained and provides essential amenities for a comfortable pre-flight experience.
- Standard Services: Passengers can access free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal. A small café offers refreshments, and a souvenir shop provides local goods and reading material.
- Accessibility: Comprehensive facilities, including ramps and accessible restrooms, are available for passengers with reduced mobility.
- VIP/Business Services: High-end services, such as private ground handling and the use of dedicated VIP Terminal lounges (often bookable via services like airssist), are available for business travellers or those seeking extra privacy.
- Accommodation: For very early departures or late arrivals, the Kuressaare Airport Guest House is conveniently located nearby, offering basic, comfortable lodging.
Ground Transportation Options
Connecting from Kuressaare Airport to the city center and the rest of Saaremaa is quick and stress-free due to the airport’s immediate proximity to the town.
- Taxi: A taxi rank is located just outside the terminal exit. The short 5-minute ride to the city centre typically costs between 3–5 EUR.
- Bus: Local bus services offer a low-cost alternative, reaching the city centre in approximately 10 minutes.
- Car Rental: Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the entire island of Saaremaa. Services are provided by both local firms (like Saare Autorent) and partners of international brands (e.g., Keddy by Europcar).
- Parking: Ample, affordable short-term and long-term parking is available directly next to the terminal building.
Contact and Location Information
For official inquiries and flight information, please use the following contacts:
- Address: Roosmassaare 1, EE-93815 Kuressaare, Saaremaa, ESTONIA
- Telephone: +372 453 0313
- Official Website: www.airport.ee/en/kuressaare-airport