Kärdla Airport (KDL/EEKA): Your Essential Air Link to the Heart of Hiiumaa Island
Kärdla Airport (IATA: KDL, ICAO: EEKA) is a vital regional airport located on the serene Hiiumaa Island in Estonia. Serving as the primary aerial gateway, KDL is crucial for linking Hiiumaa—the country’s second-largest island—with the mainland, supporting both local residents and a growing number of tourists eager to explore the island’s untouched nature, historic lighthouses, and distinct cultural heritage.
Strategically situated in Hiiesaare, approximately 7 km (4.3 miles) east of Kärdla city centre, the airport ensures quick and convenient access to the island’s capital and surrounding attractions. It is managed by Tallinn Airport Ltd., reflecting a commitment to quality and sustainable operations, with a goal of achieving CO₂ neutrality by 2025.
Essential Kärdla Airport Information (KDL)
Kärdla Airport is a domestic-only facility, but its role in connecting the Estonian islands is unparalleled.
| Feature | Details |
| IATA Code | KDL |
| ICAO Code | EEKA |
| Location | Hiiesaare, Hiiumaa Island, Estonia |
| Time Zone | Europe/Tallinn (GMT+2 / DST+3) |
| Operational Focus | Domestic and Regional Flights |
Flights, Airlines, and Key Destinations
Kärdla Airport’s schedule is primarily focused on maintaining the essential air connection to the capital.
- Primary Route: The sole scheduled destination is Tallinn (TLL). This crucial route ensures year-round accessibility, especially important when ferry connections might be limited by weather conditions.
- Operating Airline: The route is currently served exclusively by NyxAir, offering reliable domestic service several times per week.
- Connectivity: While direct international flights are not available, the frequent service to Tallinn Airport (Lennart Meri Tallinn Airport, TLL) provides passengers with seamless connections to a vast global network.
Terminal Services and Passenger Facilities
KDL operates a single, functional terminal designed to handle its regional traffic efficiently. The terminal prioritizes passenger ease and basic necessities.
- Amenities: Passengers can utilize free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal and find a small cafe for light refreshments and snacks.
- Accessibility: Limited facilities are available for passengers with reduced mobility. It is highly recommended to arrange for special assistance in advance by contacting airport services directly.
- Recent Developments: As part of the Tallinn Airport Group, Kärdla Airport benefits from ongoing efforts to modernize infrastructure and improve sustainability. Recent news indicates that the passenger terminal may be undergoing major renovation efforts to enhance the overall passenger experience.
- Accommodation: While no hotels are directly at the airport, nearby options like the Hiiumaa Hotel and Padu Hotell offer convenient lodging.
Transportation Options to and from KDL
Getting to and from Kärdla Airport is straightforward, with a few local options available.
- Taxi: Taxis are the most convenient and recommended way to travel. The ride to Kärdla city center takes approximately 10 minutes, with an estimated fare between 5–10 EUR. Pre-booking is advisable as availability can be limited.
- Bus Service: A local bus route (e.g., Line No. 6242) connects the airport with Kärdla Bus Station. Schedules are typically coordinated with flight arrivals and departures. It is recommended to check the latest schedules provided by the local bus operator.
- Car Rental: Only limited local rental firms operate on the island. For guaranteed availability, travelers should secure their vehicle through pre-booking well before arrival.
- Parking: A dedicated, free parking area is available right next to the terminal for both short and long-term stays.
Contact and Operational Details
For the most up-to-date flight and service information, you can use the following official contact details:
- Official Address: Kärdla Airport, Hiiesaare küla, 92335 Hiiu County, Estonia
- General Enquiries Phone: +372 463 1381
- Operations Manager Phone: +372 463 1003
- Email: kardla-airport[at]tll.aero
- Official Website: Airport.ee/en/kardla-airport/