Sandnessjøen Airport (SSJ/ENST) | Your Essential Gateway to the Majestic Helgeland Coast, Norway
Sandnessjøen Airport, officially known as Sandnessjøen lufthavn Stokka, serves the picturesque town of Sandnessjøen and the broader Helgeland region in Nordland County, Norway. Operated by the state-owned company Avinor, this regional airport (IATA: SSJ, ICAO: ENST) is a vital transport link, connecting the stunning landscapes of the Helgeland Coast—famous for its dramatic fjords, fishing opportunities, and the iconic Seven Sisters (Syv Søstre) mountain range—with the rest of Norway.
The airport’s strategic location makes it the primary aerial entry point for both business travelers and tourists eager to explore one of Norway’s most beautiful coastal areas, including the renowned Helgeland Coastal Route (FV17).
Airlines and Direct Routes (Current Destinations)
As a key hub for regional air traffic, Sandnessjøen Airport is primarily served by Norway’s largest regional airline, Widerøe. The routes operated from SSJ are often crucial Public Service Obligation (PSO) routes, ensuring essential connectivity for the region.
| Airline | Confirmed Destinations | Frequency |
| Widerøe | Bodø (BOO), Trondheim (TRD), Oslo (OSL), Brønnøysund (BNN) | Approximately 5 daily departures |
The key destinations include:
- Bodø (BOO): The main northern connection point.
- Trondheim (TRD): An essential hub for onward travel to Southern Norway.
- Oslo (OSL): Providing a direct link to Norway’s capital, typically via connecting flights or direct services on certain days.
- Brønnøysund (BNN): Important local traffic route.
The longest route is to Oslo, with a typical flight time of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Sandnessjøen Airport General Information & Specifications
| Category | Details |
| IATA Code | SSJ |
| ICAO Code | ENST |
| Location | Stokka, Alstahaug Municipality, Nordland, Norway |
| Distance to City | Approximately 10 km (6.3 miles) southwest of Sandnessjøen |
| Coordinates | 65° 57′ 29” N, 12° 28′ 17” E |
| Operator | Avinor |
| Elevation | 56 ft / 17 m above sea level |
| Runway | 1,409 meters (4,623 ft) on Asphalt |
The airport is characterized by its compact, efficient design, catering specifically to regional turboprop aircraft like the Widerøe Dash 8 fleet. While specific annual traffic figures for 2025 are still being processed, the airport consistently serves around 80,000 passengers annually, underlining its significance to the regional economy and tourism sector.
Terminal Facilities and Passenger Services
Despite its size, Sandnessjøen Airport offers a modern and comprehensive range of facilities to ensure a comfortable travel experience within its single terminal building.
- Connectivity: Free high-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal under the network name “Avinor_Free_WiFi”.
- Food & Drink: A dedicated café and kiosk provide passengers with refreshments, snacks, and light meals.
- Car Rental: Travelers can easily access vehicle options from major international agencies located directly at the terminal, including Hertz and Avis. Europcar is also a key local rental option.
- Accessibility: Avinor is committed to accessibility, and the terminal provides dedicated services and infrastructure for passengers with reduced mobility.
- Currency: All transactions and services are conducted in the local currency, the Norwegian Krone (NOK).
- Lost & Found: For inquiries regarding lost baggage or items within the airport, contact the airport directly via the main service number.
Ground Transportation Options
The airport is conveniently situated with excellent road connections to the town of Sandnessjøen and the wider road network, making transfers quick and efficient.
- Taxi: A taxi ride to the center of Sandnessjøen takes approximately 10 minutes and typically costs around 200 NOK. Sandnessjøen Taxi can be contacted at +47 75 04 10 00.
- Bus Service: Local Bus Line 701 offers a cost-effective journey to the town center, taking about 15 minutes. Tickets are priced affordably at approximately 50 NOK.
- Car Rental: Pre-booking a vehicle from one of the terminal agencies (Hertz, Avis, Europcar) is highly recommended, particularly for visitors planning to drive the scenic coastal routes.
- Parking: The airport offers hassle-free free parking facilities for all travelers, a significant convenience for short and long-term stays.
Exploring the Helgeland Region
Sandnessjøen Airport is not just a transit point; it is the starting line for exploring the diverse and spectacular Helgeland region.
- Syv Søstre (The Seven Sisters): The majestic mountain chain, an iconic landmark visible from the airport, offers fantastic hiking challenges for all skill levels.
- Alstahaug Church: A beautiful medieval stone church located near the airport, and the historic home of the famous Norwegian poet Petter Dass, making it a significant cultural site.
- Helgeland Coastal Route (FV17): Recognized as one of the world’s most beautiful drives, the Coastal Route starts near Sandnessjøen, offering an unforgettable journey through archipelagos, fjords, and charming fishing villages.
Contact Information for Travelers
Sandnessjøen Airport is an official Avinor facility. For the most up-to-date travel information, always check the operator’s official website.
| Detail | Contact Information |
| Address | Avinor, 8800 Sandnessjøen, NORWAY |
| Telephone | +47 67 033 350 |
| Official Website | www.avinor.no/en/airport/sandnessjoen |
| Traveler Note | Always check passport and visa requirements, especially for non-Schengen area citizens. |