Support

Aarhus Airport

About the Airport

Aarhus Airport. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars

Aarhus Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a welcoming and stylish gateway to the "City of Smiles" and the picturesque Jutland region. Unlike bustling capital hubs, a calm Scandinavian atmosphere reigns here, where modern Danish design meets incredible functionality. Travellers often call it one of the most efficient airports in the world thanks to the lightning-fast completion of all formalities, allowing you to begin your holiday without unnecessary stress just minutes after arrival.

IATA Code AAR
ICAO Code EKAH
City Aarhus (located in Tirstrup)
Distance to Centre ~40 km
Status International
Passengers per Year Over 540,000 (2023 data)

Aarhus Airport is renowned for its compactness and efficiency, making it a favourite among those who value their time. The main feature of the terminal is the absence of queues; the path from the entrance to the boarding gate takes only a matter of minutes. A recent large-scale renovation has gifted the airport with updated interiors, designed in light tones using wood and greenery, creating a sense of comfort that is atypical for airport terminals.

For the convenience of passengers, there is a spacious car park located just a few steps from the terminal, as well as a regular bus service (route 925X), which is synchronised with the flight schedule and delivers guests directly to the centre of Aarhus in less than an hour. Inside, travellers will find comfortable waiting areas, free Wi-Fi, and duty-free shops with an excellent selection of Scandinavian goods.

Contact Information

Below you will find the main contact information for Aarhus Airport (AAR), which you may need when planning your trip or during your stay at the airport.

  • Official Website: www.aar.dk
  • Information Desk Phone: +45 87 75 70 00
  • Address: Ny Lufthavnsvej 24, 8560 Kolind, Denmark
  • Email: info@aar.dk
  • Social Media: You can follow airport news and updates on their official page on Facebook.
  • Lost Luggage: In case of lost luggage during a flight, you should first contact your airline's representative. If you have lost personal items within the airport terminal complex, information on further actions can be found in the "Lost & Found" section on the airport's official website.
  • Passenger Support Service: For general inquiries and assistance, you can contact the phone number or email address listed above.

Getting to the Airport

Aarhus Airport (AAR) is located approximately 45 kilometres northeast of the city centre, on the Djursland peninsula. Despite the distance, getting to the terminal is effortless — several convenient transport options are available for travellers, suitable for any budget and style of travel across Denmark.

The most popular and budget-friendly method is the dedicated express bus (Flybussen). Route 925X connects the airport with key points in Aarhus, including the main railway station (Aarhus H). The journey takes about 50 minutes. The bus schedule is strictly coordinated with flight arrival and departure times, making this a very reliable option. You can pay for the fare by bank card directly on the bus, with cash (Danish kroner), or via a mobile app.

For those who value comfort and time, a taxi is the ideal choice. This is the fastest way to get to the airport — the trip from the city centre will take approximately 40-45 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Although this is the most expensive option, it can be beneficial for families or small groups travelling with a large amount of luggage. You can also book a transfer in advance to fix the cost and ensure the driver meets you at the required time.

If you are travelling by rental car, the road to the airport is straightforward. The main route follows expressways, making the trip fast and comfortable. Aarhus Airport hosts representatives of all major rental companies, so you can easily return the vehicle right before departure. This is particularly convenient for those who planned to explore not only the city but also the picturesque surroundings of Jutland.

For travellers arriving in their own vehicle, various parking options are provided on the airport grounds. Both short-term parking for quick drop-offs or pick-ups and long-term parking zones for those leaving their car for several days or weeks are available. It is recommended to book a parking space online in advance — this often allows you to receive a discount.

Terminals and Map

Aarhus Airport (AAR) is distinguished by a simple and passenger-friendly structure. The airport operates with just one terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights. This makes navigation intuitively clear and eliminates the need for long walks, which is especially valuable for travellers arriving in Denmark for the first time.

The terminal layout is logical and simple. Upon entering, you find yourself in the general hall with the check-in area. After completing registration and checking in luggage, you proceed to the security control point, beyond which lies the departure zone with gates, shops, and cafes. The arrival zone is located on the same level but in a separate part of the building, including baggage claim belts and customs control. Thanks to the compact size of the airport, getting lost here is practically impossible, and all signs are duplicated in English.

Since there is only one terminal, moving between zones takes minimal time. Departure and arrival areas are clearly demarcated but are within walking distance of each other. Registration and screening procedures at Aarhus Airport typically proceed very quickly compared to major international hubs. It is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5–2 hours before an international flight and approximately 1 hour before a domestic one — this time will be more than sufficient for a calm passage through all formalities.

The main advice for navigation is simply to follow the signs. All key points, from check-in counters to boarding gates, are close to one another. Even if you arrive at the last moment, you will likely make your flight without difficulty. AAR Airport is designed with a focus on efficiency and passenger comfort, making it an excellent starting point for travelling around the region.

Airport History

The history of Aarhus Airport (AAR) begins in one of the most dramatic periods of the 20th century. It was founded not as a civil facility, but as a military airfield. Construction was completed in 1943 by German engineers during the Second World War, and it initially bore the name "Fliegerhorst Tirstrup". Its strategic location on the Jutland peninsula was chosen for military purposes.

After the war ended, the airfield was transferred to the management of Danish authorities and began its transformation into a civil airport. Already in the post-war years, Scandinavian Airlines System (SAS) established the first regular flights, the most important of which became the route to Copenhagen. This step laid the foundation for the airport's development as a key transport hub for the eastern part of Jutland, linking the region with the capital and the rest of the world.

With the growing popularity of air travel, the airport was repeatedly expanded and modernised. A significant event was the opening of a new passenger terminal in 1981, which allowed for handling increased passenger traffic with greater comfort. Another important stage in history occurred in 1997, when the airport was officially renamed from "Tirstrup" to "Aarhus Airport" to strengthen its association with the region's largest city — Aarhus.

In the 21st century, development continued: the runway was extended to accommodate larger aircraft, and the infrastructure was constantly updated. Recently, a large-scale project for the expansion and complete modernisation of the airport was launched, designed to turn it into a modern and convenient hub, ready for future challenges and further growth in the number of travellers.

A curious fact: despite its name, the airport is located approximately 45 kilometres northeast of the city of Aarhus. Such a distance is a legacy of its military past, when strategic considerations were more important than proximity to the urban centre during the site selection for the airfield. This fact gives the airport a unique feature even today.

Services and Amenities

Aarhus Airport (AAR) offers travellers all necessary amenities to ensure that waiting for a flight in one of Denmark's key transport hubs is comfortable and pleasant. Despite its relatively small size, the airport is well-thought-out and oriented towards passenger needs.

Before departure or after arrival, you can refresh yourself in one of the cafes or restaurants, offering both light snacks and full meals. For those wishing to shop, a Duty Free store operates with an assortment of perfumes, cosmetics, beverages, and local souvenirs. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and numerous charging stations for electronic devices are equipped for passenger convenience.

For a more comfortable wait, passengers can utilise the services of the lounge area, where one can relax or work in a quiet atmosphere. ATMs for cash withdrawal are installed in the terminal. Currency exchange points are also available, though it is better to check their operating hours in advance. Although there is no permanent medical centre at the airport, staff are trained to provide first aid and can call an ambulance if necessary.

The airport is well-equipped for travellers with special needs. For passengers with children, mother and child rooms with changing tables are provided. Passengers with reduced mobility can count on comprehensive assistance: from parking to boarding the aircraft. It is recommended to book the assistance service in advance through your airline.

Although there is no hotel directly on the airport grounds, several hotels are located within a few minutes' drive. For business travellers, conference halls and meeting rooms equipped with everything necessary for holding meetings and events are provided. These services usually require prior reservation.

Dining

Despite its compact size, Aarhus Airport offers passengers several convenient options for a snack or a full lunch before departure. The main catering establishments are located in the airside zone, that is, after passing security control, allowing travellers to relax while waiting for their flight without worrying about time.

If you are short on time or wish to enjoy a cup of coffee with famous Danish pastries, visit the Lagkagehuset bakery. This is a nationwide chain where you can try the freshest wienerbrød buns, croissants, as well as take away ready-made sandwiches, salads, and light snacks. It is an ideal choice for a quick and high-quality bite.

For those preferring a more substantial lunch, the main restaurant Gastro operates in the departure zone. Here, hot international dishes are served, and there is also an offer to get acquainted with the gastronomic traditions of Denmark. Be sure to try smørrebrød — traditional open sandwiches with various toppings, which are a hallmark of local cuisine. This is a great opportunity to enjoy a full meal in a calm setting.

Regarding special dietary needs, vegetarian options are usually present on the menus. For information regarding Halal, gluten-free, vegan, or other specific dietary requirements, it is best to ask the staff directly. Please keep in mind that the price range at the airport is traditionally higher than the city average. The opening hours of the cafe and restaurant are tied to the flight schedule, starting from early morning until the departure of the last aircraft.

Travel Tips

To ensure your journey through Aarhus Airport goes smoothly and without unnecessary stress, take advantage of our tips. Planning is the key to a successful trip, especially if you are flying from Denmark for the first time.

Arrival Time and Check-in. We recommend arriving at the airport at least 2 hours before international flights and 1.5 hours before domestic ones. This will give you enough time for all procedures. To save time, complete online check-in on your airline's website and save the boarding pass on your phone. If you are travelling only with hand luggage, this will allow you to head straight to security control.

Passing Security Control. Be prepared in advance at the screening point: remove all liquids in a transparent bag from your hand luggage (the volume of each container must not exceed 100 ml), as well as large electronic devices such as laptops and tablets. This is a standard procedure that helps speed up the process for all passengers.

Seat Selection. If the airline allows you to choose a seat in advance, consider your preferences. Window seats (A, F) will give you beautiful views during takeoff and landing. Aisle seats (C, D) are convenient if you plan to get up during the flight. For more legroom, choose seats near emergency exits, but note that airlines often charge an additional fee for them.

Hand Luggage. It is forbidden to carry sharp objects (knives, scissors), flammable liquids, and aerosols in hand luggage. Ensure that the weight and dimensions of your bag comply with the air carrier's requirements — they may vary. Always keep valuable items, documents, medicines, and electronics with you in your hand luggage.

Connecting Passengers and Customs. If you have a connecting flight, clarify at check-in whether your luggage will be automatically forwarded to the final destination. When passing customs control, if you are arriving from a country outside the EU, use the "Red Channel" to declare goods or the "Green Channel" if you have nothing to declare. For travel within the Schengen area, customs control is usually simplified.

Saving Time and Money. To save money, book parking or airport transfers online in advance. Bring an empty water bottle with you and fill it after passing security control — this is cheaper than buying water at a premium. Most airports, including Aarhus Airport, offer free Wi-Fi, which can be used to contact loved ones or for work.

Flight Delays. In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline's counter for information. Depending on the length of the wait and the carrier's rules, you may be provided with vouchers for food or even hotel accommodation. Monitor updates on information screens and remain calm. Use this time to rest, read a book, or explore the shops and cafes in the terminal.

Reached the end of the page?

That means the route is fully explored