Ålesund Vigra Airport (AES/ENAL) – Your Premier Gateway to the Majestic Norwegian Fjords
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General Information: Discovering Ålesund Airport, Vigra (AES)
Ålesund Airport, Vigra (AES/ENAL), stands as the pivotal transportation hub for Norway’s scenic Sunnmøre region. As a critical entry point, the airport facilitates both regional business travel and the rapidly growing flow of tourists seeking to explore the renowned West Coast of Norway.
- Location and Coordinates: Strategically situated on Vigra Island, the airport is conveniently located just 10.3 km from the distinctive Art Nouveau city of Ålesund. (GPS Coordinates: 62° 33′ 45” N, 6° 6′ 19” E).
- Passenger Volume: The airport served a record 1.1 million passengers in 2024, solidifying its position as a major regional airport. A healthy 3% increase in passenger traffic is anticipated for 2025, underscoring its growing importance.
- Regional Significance: Ålesund Vigra is the essential gateway for travelers heading to the UNESCO World Heritage site, Geirangerfjord, and provides easy access to spectacular coastal routes. Tourist-related flights experience a notable peak, especially during the summer travel season.
Modern Terminal and Essential Passenger Services
The airport operates a single, contemporary terminal, which was significantly upgraded during a major renovation in 2023 to enhance passenger comfort and operational efficiency.
- Connectivity: Enjoy seamless internet access from arrival to departure with the complimentary Avinor_Free_WiFi network available throughout the terminal.
- Facilities: Comprehensive traveler amenities include a spacious duty-free shopping area, the popular Sky Cafe offering a range of refreshments, and fully accessible facilities for disabled passengers.
- Ground Transport & Car Rental: For effortless travel across the Sunnmøre region, on-site Ålesund car rental agencies are readily available, including Avis, Hertz, Sixt, Europcar, and Budget.
- Baggage & Lost Property: Luggage storage services are offered for 10 NOK per hour. For inquiries regarding lost property, please contact the service desk at +47 67 032 121.
- Currency: Payments within the terminal are accepted in both Norwegian Krone (NOK) and Euro.
- Accommodation: Recommended hotels nearby for pre- or post-flight stays include Scandic Parken and Quality Hotel Ålesund.
Airlines and Expanded International Destinations for 2025
Ålesund Airport provides non-stop passenger flights to 9 key destinations across 6 countries, with significant route expansion and capacity increases planned for the summer 2025 schedule, connecting the region to major European hubs.
- Main Carriers: The core airlines operating out of AES are Norwegian, Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), Widerøe, and KLM.
- Major Partners: Extensive code-share and operating airlines include Air France, Lufthansa, Finnair, Wizz Air, ITA Airways, Air Baltic, and Delta Air Lines.
- Key Routes (2025 Focus):
- Domestic Routes: Essential connections to major Norwegian cities: Oslo (OSL), Bergen (BGO) — with Widerøe offering up to 10 weekly flights, and Trondheim (TRD).
- International Routes: Direct links to Amsterdam (AMS), Gdańsk (GDN), London Gatwick (LGW), the tourist hotspot Alicante (ALC), Copenhagen (CPH), and a crucial route to Frankfurt (FRA).
- Longest Flight: The longest non-stop service is the direct flight to Alicante (ALC) in Spain, covering approximately 1,700 miles (2,736 km).
Efficient Transportation and Parking Solutions
The airport is well-connected to the wider Ålesund region via the E136 road network, ensuring fast and reliable airport transfer options.
- Airport Bus (Flybussen): This service offers the most economical transfer option, with a journey time of approximately 25 minutes to Ålesund city centre for a fare of 120 NOK. Tickets can be purchased online via Fram.no.
- Taxi Service: A taxi ride provides a comfortable 20-minute trip to Ålesund, with an estimated cost between 350–400 NOK. You can contact Ålesund Taxi directly at +47 70 10 30 00.
- Parking: The airport offers flexible parking solutions: P1 for short-term parking and P2 for long-term parking. Travelers are strongly advised to secure the best discounts by making reservations online.
Sustainability Commitment and Essential Travel Advisory
Managed by Avinor, Ålesund Airport is committed to environmental stewardship, actively contributing to the organization’s goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2030, which includes the use of electric vehicles in ground operations.
- Regional Highlights: Beyond the Art Nouveau district, the airport provides a convenient starting point for visiting the famous Aksla Viewpoint overlooking the city and the iconic Atlantic Ocean Road.
- Travel Reminder (Visa): International travelers must always confirm the most current entry requirements for Norway. As an example, citizens from non-Schengen member states are required to obtain a valid Schengen visa for entry.
Contact Information
- Address: Avinor, 6040 Ålesund, NORWAY
- Telephone: +47 67 032 121
- Website: www.avinor.no/en/airport/alesund