Vadsø Airport (VDS/ENVD): Your Essential Gateway to Arctic Norway and the Varanger Fjord
Vadsø Airport (VDS/ENVD) is a critical regional transportation hub nestled in the heart of Finnmark, Norway’s northernmost county. Located just 4 km (2.5 mi) east of the town of Vadsø, this Avinor-operated facility serves as a vital lifeline for local residents and a convenient entry point for adventurers exploring the vast, pristine landscapes of the Varanger Peninsula. Situated directly on the scenic Varanger Fjord, VDS connects this unique Arctic region to the rest of Norway, facilitating both essential travel and the growing Arctic tourism sector focused on birdwatching, Sami culture, and the Northern Lights.
Airport Overview & Location
Vadsø Airport’s strategic location in the village of Kiby makes it easily accessible while offering stunning views of the surrounding Arctic wilderness. As a small but efficiently run regional airport, it plays a crucial role in maintaining connectivity across Northern Norway.
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Kiby, Vadsø, Finnmark, Norway |
| Coordinates | 70°03′55″N 029°50′41″E |
| Elevation | 39 m (127 ft) Above Mean Sea Level (AMSL) |
| Operator | Avinor (The Norwegian state-owned company responsible for operating most of Norway’s civil airports) |
| History | Opened in 1974, continually sustaining fixed flights to support Arctic travel and local transport. |
| Annual Traffic | Served approximately 30,000 passengers (Data from 2024/2025, reflecting stable regional demand). |
Airlines and Destinations
The primary carrier operating out of Vadsø Airport is Widerøe, the largest regional airline in Scandinavia. Widerøe utilizes VDS as a key stop on its expansive network of short-haul flights, often referred to as “milk run” routes, which link small communities across Finnmark. This ensures daily connections for both business and leisure travellers.
| Category | Details |
| Primary Airline | Widerøe (WF) |
| Key Domestic Destinations | Kirkenes (KKN), Vardø (VAW), Tromsø (TOS), Hammerfest (HFT), Berlevåg (BVG), Båtsfjord (BJF), Mehamn (MEH). |
| Flight Frequency | Typically sees 1 to 3 daily departures and arrivals, depending on the season and day of the week, connecting passengers to larger hubs like Tromsø or Kirkenes. |
| Longest Route | The longest non-stop flight is to Tromsø (TOS), covering approximately 418 km (260 miles) and taking about 50 minutes, providing crucial access to international connecting flights. |
Terminal Facilities and Services
Despite its size, Vadsø Airport provides all the essential services required for a comfortable and efficient travel experience, adhering to Avinor’s high standards for airport operations.
- Terminal Building: The airport operates a single, compact terminal that efficiently handles passenger flow, with a capacity designed for regional aircraft operations.
- Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal under the “Avinor_Free_WiFi” network, allowing passengers to stay connected.
- Dining and Refreshments: A small café or kiosk is available on-site, offering light snacks, hot and cold beverages, perfect for pre-flight waiting.
- Accessibility: The facility is fully compliant with modern disabled access standards, offering assistance and facilities for passengers with reduced mobility.
- Local Currency: Payments for all services are conducted in Norwegian Krone (NOK). Major credit cards are widely accepted.
- Lost & Found: For enquiries regarding lost property, passengers should contact the airport administration directly at +47 67 035 280 during operational hours.
Ground Transportation & Parking
Located conveniently close to the city center, Vadsø Airport offers straightforward and quick transportation options. The airport is directly accessible via the major coastal route, the E75 road.
- Taxi Services: The quickest way to reach Vadsø center is by taxi. The ride takes approximately 5 minutes and costs around 120–150 NOK. You can pre-book or contact Vadsø Taxi at +47 78 95 10 00.
- Car Rental: For travelers looking to explore the broader Finnmark region and the Varanger Peninsula at their own pace, car rental services are available from reputable providers such as Hertz and Avis, with desks located in or near the terminal building.
- Parking: A dedicated, small parking lot is provided for travelers. In line with many regional Norwegian airports, short-term and long-term parking are typically available free of charge.
Operational Data and Infrastructure
The operational structure of VDS is tailored to handle regional flights efficiently while mitigating the challenges posed by the Arctic environment.
| Detail | Specification |
| Runway Length | 880 meters (2,890 ft) of asphalt, suitable for regional turboprop aircraft like the Widerøe Dash 8. |
| Runway Alignment | Aligned 08–26 (roughly East–West). |
| Landing System | Equipped with a modern SCAT-I (Satellite-based Category I) landing system, which is crucial for maintaining operational reliability and flight safety in conditions with limited visibility, common in the Arctic. |
| Operational Note | Due to its extreme northern location, passengers should be aware that winter weather, including heavy snow or wind, may occasionally cause flight delays or cancellations. Always check flight status before heading to the airport. |
Exploring Vadsø and the Varanger Region
Vadsø Airport serves as a launching pad to one of the most distinctive travel regions in Europe. The area offers unique experiences tied to its history and natural environment.
- Local Attractions:
- Varanger Museum: Explore the local history, including the Sami culture and the unique architecture of Vadsø, known for its wooden buildings.
- Birdwatching: The Varanger Peninsula is internationally renowned as a prime birdwatching destination, with the coastline and nearby islands hosting massive colonies of seabirds.
- Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis): During the dark winter months (September to April), the region’s high latitude and minimal light pollution make it one of the best spots globally for viewing the spectacular Northern Lights.
- Midnight Sun: Conversely, the summer months (May to July) feature the Midnight Sun, where daylight lasts 24 hours.
- Accommodation: Several comfortable lodging options are available in the city center, including established hotels like the Scandic Vadsø and Vadsø Hotell, providing easy access to local amenities and the fjord.
- Travel Advisory: Visitors from certain countries, including those traveling from outside the Schengen Area (e.g., Turkish citizens), must ensure they secure the appropriate Schengen visa prior to travel to Norway.
Contact Information
For administrative or general inquiries regarding the airport, please use the following contact details:
| Field | Detail |
| Operator | Avinor |
| Address | Avinor, 9811 Vadsø, NORWAY |
| Phone (General) | +47 67 035 280 |
| Official Website | www.avinor.no/en/airport/vadso |