Halmstad Airport (HAD/ESMT): Your Premier Gateway to the Swedish Halland Coast
Halmstad Airport, officially known as Halmstad City Airport (IATA: HAD, ICAO: ESMT), serves as the vital air travel hub for the picturesque Halland region of Sweden. Strategically located just 3 km (1.8 miles) from the Halmstad city center, the airport provides the fastest access to popular destinations like the stunning Tylösand beach and the area’s globally renowned golf courses. Managed by the Halmstad Municipality, the airport demonstrated strong performance with approximately 100,000 passengers handled in recent years (e.g., 2024 data). Its core focus remains on efficient domestic connectivity and pioneering environmental practices.
Terminal Features and Passenger Comfort
The airport operates a streamlined, single-terminal facility designed to ensure a smooth and comfortable experience for all travelers.
- Amenities: Passengers benefit from essential services, including complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the terminal, a cozy café offering snacks and refreshments, and fully dedicated facilities for disabled access.
- Payments: Transactions within the airport are primarily conducted in Swedish Krona (SEK).
- Lost Property: For assistance with lost items, the Lost Property office can be reached directly at: +46 35-18 26 00.
Flights, Airlines, and Key Destinations (Updated for 2025)
Halmstad Airport primarily connects the Halland region with the rest of Sweden, with key domestic routes and expanding seasonal international services.
- Primary Carrier & Route: Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) is the main operator, offering vital daily connections (Mon-Fri, Sun) to Stockholm–Arlanda Airport (ARN). This route remains the most frequent and longest scheduled flight, with a flight time of approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, serving as a crucial link to SAS’s extensive global network.
- Network Expansion: Following a strategic collaboration with Braathens Regional Airways (BRA), SAS has significantly increased the frequency of its Stockholm flights starting in January 2025, strengthening Halmstad’s domestic infrastructure.
- International Connections: Seasonal charter routes enhance the airport’s profile. Currently, GP Aviation operates a seasonal service to Pristina (PRN), and the airport also features charter options to destinations such as Tallinn, Estonia. Note: International passengers must adhere to all relevant Schengen visa requirements.
Efficient Ground Transportation and Parking Solutions
Traveling to and from HAD is convenient, with multiple modes of transport readily available.
- Bus Service: A public bus service connects the airport to Halmstad city center in approximately 10 minutes, with an affordable fare starting around €2.
- Taxi: A fast taxi ride to the city center takes only about 5 minutes, with estimated fares ranging from €10 to €15.
- Car Rental: Leading international car hire companies are represented on-site, including Sixt, Europcar, Hertz, and Avis, offering seamless pick-up and drop-off.
- Parking: The airport provides both short-term and long-term parking options located close to the terminal. Daily rates start competitively at 70 SEK (approx. €6). An excellent perk for travelers is the free parking offered to passengers flying on scheduled charter routes.
Sustainability and General Aviation Operations
Halmstad City Airport is a recognized leader in sustainable airport operations in Sweden, underscoring its commitment to environmental responsibility.
- Biofuel Commitment: It was the first airport in Sweden to establish a continuous supply commitment to Sustainable Aviation Biofuel (SAF), a partnership involving the airport, BRA, and Air BP.
- Technical Information: With a runway length of 2,261 meters (7,417 feet) and an elevation of 101 ft, HAD is well-equipped to handle various aircraft types.
- General Aviation Services: The airport supports private and business flights, offering full refueling services (Air BP Jet A1/Avgas100LL) and de-icing facilities (Verstergaard Elephant MY), and maintains customs capabilities for international general aviation.
Nearby Lodging and Regional Access
For visitors requiring overnight stays, several highly-rated hotels are conveniently located near the airport and city center.
- Recommended Accommodation: Nearby options include the renowned Hotel Tylösand and the centrally-located Scandic Hallandia, offering easy access to both the airport and the city’s attractions.
Airport Contact Details
For all operational, flight, or general inquiries:
- Address: 30591 Halmstad, Sweden
- Phone: +46 35-18 26 00
- Official Website: www.halmstadsflygplats.se