Haugesund Karmøy Airport (HAU/ENHD): The Premier Gateway to Norway’s West Coast and Rogaland Region
Haugesund Karmøy Airport (HAU), officially designated ENHD, stands as the critical transportation hub for the scenic Rogaland region of Norway. Strategically located on the island of Karmøy, HAU serves as a vital artery for both the region’s thriving offshore industry and a growing leisure tourism market, offering essential connectivity to domestic and international destinations.
General Airport Information
HAU’s strategic positioning makes it highly accessible. The airport is situated approximately 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) from the Haugesund city center, typically equating to a swift 15-minute drive.
- Official Code: HAU (IATA) / ENHD (ICAO)
- Location: Karmøy Island, Rogaland, Norway
- Coordinates: 59° 24′ 20” N, 5° 16′ 45” E
- Regional Significance: As a crucial gateway, HAU successfully managed approximately 650,000 passengers in the most recent fiscal year, underscoring its role as a dynamic regional hub. It provides direct access to historical sites like the Avaldsnes Viking Village and the charming coastal town of Skudeneshavn.
Airlines, Routes, and Connecting the World
Haugesund Airport boasts a diverse portfolio of carriers, ranging from national flag carriers to leading low-cost airlines, ensuring competitive pricing and comprehensive route coverage for both business and holiday travelers. The airport services a blend of scheduled domestic, international routes, and seasonal charter operations.
Main Airlines Operating at HAU:
- Scandinavian Airlines (SAS): Key domestic and European connections.
- Norwegian Air Shuttle: Extensive low-cost domestic and international service.
- Widerøe: Essential regional flights connecting to smaller Norwegian towns.
- Wizz Air: Focused services to Eastern European destinations.
Key Direct Destinations (Scheduled and Seasonal):
| City | Country | Primary Airline(s) | Connection Highlights |
| Oslo (OSL) | Norway | Norwegian, SAS | Frequent daily service, critical national link. |
| Bergen (BGO) | Norway | Widerøe | Essential West Coast connection for business and tourism. |
| Málaga (AGP) | Spain | Norwegian | Longest-haul route (approx. 3h 50m), popular seasonal getaway. |
| Alicante (ALC) | Spain | Norwegian | Direct flights to Spain’s Costa Blanca region. |
| Gdańsk (GDN) | Poland | Wizz Air | Key connection for business and cultural exchange. |
Seasonal Charter Destinations:
HAU is a popular departure point for sun-seeking Norwegians, with seasonal charter services to major European holiday hotspots, including: Gran Canaria, Palma de Mallorca (Spain), Cyprus, Antalya (Turkey), and Chania (Greece).
World-Class Airport Services and Amenities
The airport operates efficiently from a single, modern terminal that underwent a significant renovation in 2022 to enhance the overall passenger experience.
- Connectivity: Free, reliable Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal via the “Avinor_Free_WiFi” network, allowing travelers to stay connected immediately upon arrival or before departure.
- Dining and Retail: The terminal features a well-equipped café offering fresh Norwegian fare and a dedicated Duty-Free Shop for international passengers, offering tax-free savings on cosmetics, alcohol, and confectionery.
- Airport Lounge Access: A dedicated lounge service is available for a fee (typically around 25 EUR), providing a quiet, comfortable space for relaxation or work before a flight.
- Baggage Services: For traveler convenience, a dedicated baggage storage service is available. For lost or misplaced items, the official Lost & Found service can be reached at +47 67 031 010.
- Accessibility: The terminal is fully equipped to accommodate passengers with reduced mobility, ensuring seamless and dignified access across all facilities.
- Payment Options: For ease of transaction, the airport accepts both the local currency (Norwegian Krone – NOK) and the Euro (EUR) at most retail and service points.
Ground Transportation and Parking Solutions
HAU offers highly efficient transport links, being directly accessible via the E134 highway. A variety of ground transport options are available immediately outside the terminal.
- Bus Service (Flybussen): The dedicated Flybussen route offers a cost-effective and direct connection to Haugesund city center in approximately 20 minutes. Tickets can be purchased online or via the local public transport provider (Kolumbus.no).
- Taxi Service: A taxi ride to the city center is the fastest option (approx. 15 minutes), with an estimated fare of 250 NOK. Haugesund Taxi is the principal provider (+47 52 80 80 00).
- Car Rental: Travelers looking for flexibility can choose from several major international and local rental desks conveniently located inside the terminal: Avis, Hertz, Sixt, Europcar, and Budget.
- Parking: The airport provides two main options for vehicle storage: P1 for short-term drop-offs and quick visits, and P2 for secure, long-term parking. Importantly, the facility features dedicated charging stations for electric vehicles (EVs).
Explore Rogaland: Nearby Hotels and Must-See Attractions
The airport’s favorable location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty of the Rogaland region.
Airport Area Hotels:
For immediate convenience, several high-quality accommodations are available close to the airport and in Haugesund city center:
- Park Inn Haugesund Airport
- Clarion Collection Hotel Amanda
- Aiden by Best Western Haugesund Airport
Historical and Natural Attractions:
- Avaldsnes Viking Village: Discover Norway’s rich heritage at this historically significant site, often referred to as Norway’s oldest royal seat. It is a short, essential visit from the airport.
- Haraldshaugen National Monument: A towering stone monument dedicated to Harald Fairhair, the first King of Norway, offering breathtaking views and a direct link to the nation’s founding.
- The Haugesund Fjords: Explore the majestic landscapes that characterize the Norwegian West Coast, easily accessible by car or guided tour from the airport.
Essential Contact Information and Travel Tips
For official airport information, flight status, and general inquiries, use the details provided by the operator, Avinor.
- Address: Avinor, 4262 Avaldsnes, NORWAY
- Official Phone: +47 67 031 010
- Official Website: www.avinor.no/en/airport/haugesund
- Travel Advisory: Non-Schengen area citizens are reminded to secure the necessary visa documentation for entry into Norway, a member of the Schengen Area. Travelers should always check the latest travel advisories before departure.