Vaasa Airport (VAA/EFVA): The Vital Air Hub for Finland’s Ostrobothnian Coast and Energy Cluster
Vaasa Airport (VAA/EFVA) serves as a crucial gateway, connecting Finland’s dynamic Ostrobothnia region, and particularly the thriving Vaasa Energy Cluster, to the rest of Scandinavia and international markets. Strategically positioned as both a business and leisure travel center, VAA is managed by Finavia and is known for its high-quality service, a reputation cemented by being named Finland’s Airport of the Year multiple times.
In the 2024 calendar year, VAA solidified its importance by handling a total of approximately 177,592 passengers, making it one of Finland’s busiest regional airports (ranked 7th nationally). Despite external challenges affecting Finnish air travel, the airport continues to recover and foster growth, especially in international leisure routes.
Key Airport Information and Location
Vaasa Airport is conveniently located just 9 km (5.6 miles) southeast of the Vaasa city center, offering quick access for travellers heading to the city or the surrounding region.
- IATA/ICAO Codes: VAA / EFVA
- Coordinates: 63° 2′ 42” N, 21° 45′ 41” E
- Regional Significance: VAA is the primary air link for the Ostrobothnia and Southern Ostrobothnia regions, and the closest major airport to the Kvarken Archipelago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Terminal Facilities and Enhanced Services
The airport operates a modern, single terminal designed to efficiently handle both domestic and international traffic. The facilities are continually updated to ensure a smooth and comfortable passenger experience.
- Connectivity: Free and unlimited Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal.
- Food and Beverage: A café/restaurant provides a selection of snacks, meals, and beverages before and after security control.
- Shopping: A Finavia Shop is available for gifts, souvenirs, and travel essentials.
- Accessibility: Comprehensive facilities and services are provided for passengers with reduced mobility.
- Business Travel: The terminal offers facilities tailored for business passengers, including streamlined security processes. VAT refund services are also available for eligible international travellers.
Airlines and Scheduled/Charter Destinations (2025)
Vaasa Airport provides vital scheduled connections to key Scandinavian and Finnish hubs, alongside popular seasonal leisure routes.
- Primary Scheduled Airlines: Finnair and Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) form the backbone of VAA’s network.
- Key Scheduled Destinations (2025):
- Helsinki (HEL): Operated by Finnair, offering multiple daily connections to Finland’s main hub and onward international flights.
- Stockholm-Arlanda (ARN): Served by SAS, providing essential links to the Swedish capital.
- Charter and Seasonal Flights: The airport caters to strong demand for leisure travel, with seasonal charter operators (including airlines like Sunclass Airlines) offering direct flights to popular holiday destinations, such as the Canary Islands (Las Palmas/Gran Canaria) and destinations in the Mediterranean (Greece, Turkey).
Ground Transportation and Parking Options
Getting to and from Vaasa Airport is straightforward, with several reliable options available.
- Taxi: A dedicated taxi rank is situated directly outside the terminal exit. The journey to the city center is quick, taking approximately 10 minutes with an estimated cost of 15–20 EUR.
- Bus: Affordable and efficient bus services run between the airport and Vaasa city center. The journey typically takes around 15 minutes.
- Car Rental: Major international car rental companies have desks at the airport, including Avis, Hertz, and Europcar, allowing travelers maximum flexibility.
- Parking: The airport provides ample and affordable short-term and long-term parking areas, with heightened security. Importantly, electric vehicle (EV) charging points are available, aligning with modern sustainability trends.
Sustainability and Airport Development
Vaasa Airport, as part of the Finavia network, is actively committed to environmental responsibility and community engagement.
- Carbon Neutrality Goal: VAA is on track to meet Finavia’s goal of achieving a carbon net-zero emissions target by 2025. This commitment involves utilizing renewable energy sources and optimizing airport operations.
- Community Events: The airport continues to host or support significant regional events, such as the successful Vaasa Airshow held in 2024, demonstrating its role as a key community partner.
Contact Information
For official inquiries and the latest flight information:
- Address: Lentokentäntie 174, 65380 Vaasa, FINLAND
- Telephone: +358 20 708 6150
- Official Website: www.finavia.fi/airport_vaasa