Kardla Airport

Kärdla Airport (Kärdla lennujaam) is the air gateway to the picturesque island of Hiiumaa, the second largest in Estonia. For many travellers, it serves as the starting point for exploring the island's pristine nature, ancient lighthouses, and cosy villages. Despite its modest size, this small airport plays a key role in the region's transport system, providing a fast and convenient connection to the mainland. Landing here is the beginning of an adventure in itself, as the aircraft offers mesmerizing views of the Baltic Sea and lush forests.

The main advantage of Kärdla Airport is its compactness and simplicity. There are no long queues or the hustle and bustle of large aviation hubs here, making the check-in and security control process as fast and comfortable as possible. For travellers, this means more time to enjoy their holiday and less stress. The airport primarily serves domestic flights to Tallinn, offering residents and guests of the island an excellent alternative to the ferry crossing, especially in the off-season. It is not just a transport facility, but a vital part of island life, ensuring accessibility and connection with the rest of the country.

Below is the contact information for Kärdla Airport, which may be useful when planning your trip.

• Official website: kardla.tallinn-airport.ee
• Information desk phone: +372 463 1381
• Address: Lennujaama tee 20, Hiiessaare küla, Hiiumaa vald, 92411, Estonia
• Email: kardla.info@tll.aero
• Social Media: Kärdla Airport is part of the Tallinn Airport group. The latest news and updates can be found on the official social media pages of Tallinn Airport.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your belongings were lost within the airport premises, please contact the information service. In case of lost luggage during the flight, you must contact your airline's representative directly.
• Passenger Support: For general inquiries and assistance, please contact the airport information service via the phone number or email provided above.

Kärdla Airport (KDL) is located on the picturesque island of Hiiumaa in Estonia, just a few kilometres from the city of the same name. It is a small but important transport hub, serving primarily domestic flights and making the island easily accessible. You can get to it from the city of Kärdla in several ways.

Taxi or pre-booked transfer is the fastest and most comfortable option. The trip from the centre of Kärdla to the airport will take only 5–10 minutes, as the distance is about 7 kilometres. The estimated cost of the trip is 10–15 Euros. This is particularly convenient if you are travelling with bulky luggage or are in a hurry for your flight. It is recommended to book a car in advance, especially during peak hours or for early/late flights.

Public transport is the most budget-friendly method. Local buses connect the airport with Kärdla and other key points on the island. The bus schedule is often coordinated with the arrival and departure of aircraft, but it is always worth checking in advance on the local carrier's website. A bus ride will last about 15–20 minutes, and the ticket price is usually 1–3 Euros.

If you plan to actively explore the island of Hiiumaa, car rental would be the ideal solution. You can rent a car in the city and drive comfortably to the airport for your flight. There is convenient parking near the terminal, which, as a rule in such small regional airports, is free or very inexpensive, making this method convenient for independent travellers.

Although Kärdla Airport is perfect for travelling around the island, for international flights or a wider choice of routes, you might consider alternative airports. The nearest one is Kuressaare Airport (URE) on the neighbouring island of Saaremaa. The country's main air gateway, Tallinn Airport (TLL), is located approximately 122 km away and offers many international destinations. Also within reach (taking ferry crossings into account) are airports in Finland: Turku Airport (TKU) and the country's largest, Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL). Another option is Mariehamn Airport (MHQ) in the Åland Islands.

Kärdla Airport (KDL) is a small regional airport serving the island of Hiiumaa in Estonia. Its structure is extremely simple and convenient for travellers, making it one of the most straightforward airports in the country.

Kärdla Airport has only one passenger terminal, which serves all flights — both arrivals and departures. It is a small and cosy building where all necessary services are concentrated. Thanks to its compact size, navigation through the terminal is intuitive, and getting lost here is practically impossible. All zones — from check-in counters to boarding gates — are within walking distance of each other.

Departure and arrival zones are located in the same building. After check-in, passengers proceed to a small waiting area. Due to the absence of multiple terminals, there is no need for transfers or shuttles — everything is under one roof. The airport layout is so simple that you will easily orient yourself, even if you have arrived here for the first time.

The main feature of the terminal is its intimate atmosphere and speed of service. Check-in and security screening procedures take a minimal amount of time. Typically, the entire process from entering the building to the waiting hall takes 15-20 minutes. This allows you to arrive at the airport shortly before departure, avoiding the long waits characteristic of major aviation hubs. The main recommendation for travellers is simply to follow the signs, which are few but extremely clear. The entire path from the entrance to the gate will take just a few steps.

Kärdla Airport, located on the scenic island of Hiiumaa in Estonia, began its history in 1963. Originally built to connect the island with the mainland, it quickly gained popularity. During the Soviet period, one could fly from Kärdla not only to Tallinn but also to other major cities such as Moscow, Leningrad, and Minsk. In 1987, a record passenger flow of over 24,000 people was recorded, indicating the high demand for air travel.

After the restoration of Estonia's independence in the early 1990s, the volume of traffic decreased sharply, and the airport faced new challenges. However, its strategic importance for the island was obvious, and a period of modernization began. In 1995, the runway surface was renovated, and in 1998, a new, more modern and comfortable passenger terminal was opened. These steps helped preserve and develop the air gateway of Hiiumaa.

One of the tragic moments in the airport's history was the plane crash on November 23, 2001. A plane flying from Tallinn crashed while approaching Kärdla. This event led to a temporary suspension of flights and served as an impetus for reviewing and tightening safety standards, which subsequently increased the reliability of air connections with the island.

Today, Kärdla Airport (KDL) is an integral part of Hiiumaa's transport infrastructure. Managed by Tallinna Lennujaam (Tallinn Airport), it ensures stable and fast connections with the country's capital. For residents and guests of the island, it is not just an airport, but a vital artery linking them to the mainland at any time of the year. In addition to scheduled flights, the airport also serves charter and private aircraft, playing an important role in the development of regional tourism.

Kärdla Airport (KDL) is a small and cosy regional airport serving the island of Hiiumaa in Estonia. Its infrastructure is focused on ensuring fast and comfortable pre-flight procedures for domestic flight passengers. You will not find large shopping centres or a variety of restaurants here as in international hubs, but everything necessary for a short wait is available.

The terminal building features a comfortable waiting area for passengers. You can have a snack and drink coffee in a small cafe that operates according to the flight schedule. For the convenience of travellers, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, as well as power outlets for charging electronic devices. Since the airport serves domestic flights, there are no currency exchange points, banks, or duty-free shops.

The airport is adapted to serve passengers with reduced mobility. To receive special assistance, it is recommended to contact the airline or airport administration in advance. Basic amenities are created for travellers with small children. There are no hotels or business centres directly in the airport building, however, suitable accommodation options and conference rooms can easily be found in the city of Kärdla, located a few kilometres from the airport.

Kärdla Airport (KDL) is a small and cosy regional airport, so the choice of dining establishments is appropriate to its size. Passengers should not expect a wide variety of restaurants as found in large international hubs. However, everything necessary for a comfortable wait is available here.

A small cafe operates in the airport's single terminal. It is perfect for having a cup of coffee or tea and a snack before departure. The menu usually features sandwiches, fresh pastries, snacks, as well as cold and hot beverages. Prices here are moderate, comparable to city cafes. This is an excellent option for a quick snack, but not for a full lunch or dinner.

The cafe is located in the general area of the terminal, before the security check (landside), so it is accessible to both departing passengers and those seeing them off. Its operating hours are usually tied to the flight schedule — the establishment opens some time before departure and closes after the plane takes off. At other times, the cafe may be closed.

Given the modest size of the establishment, finding specialised dishes for vegans, vegetarians, or specific dietary requirements (such as Halal or gluten-free options) may be difficult. Passengers with strict dietary restrictions are recommended to bring food with them or dine at one of the establishments in the city of Kärdla before travelling to the airport. There you will find a wider selection of cafes and restaurants.

Travelling through Kärdla Airport is an experience distinct from the hustle of major international hubs. It is a small and cosy regional airport, which has its advantages. To make your trip go as smoothly as possible, use these tips.

Arrival at the airport and check-in. Given the compact size of the terminal, you do not need to arrive 3-4 hours before departure. Usually, it is sufficient to arrive 1-1.5 hours before your flight departs. This time will be enough to check in and go through security without rushing. If possible, use online check-in to save time. Procedures at the airport are fast, as passenger traffic is low.

Hand luggage and security. Despite the size of the airport, security rules here are standard for the entire European Union. Liquids can be carried in containers of no more than 100 ml, packed in one transparent bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited in hand luggage. The screening process usually takes just a few minutes.

Transfers and customs. Kärdla Airport mainly serves domestic flights, most often to Tallinn. It is not a transit hub, so there is no special zone for transfer passengers here. If you are flying further from another airport, you will need to collect your luggage and check in for the next flight again. Since the flights are domestic, there is no customs or passport control.

Seat selection and savings. Aircraft on routes to Kärdla are typically small propeller planes, where every window offers a good view of the island of Hiiumaa and the Baltic Sea. To save money, buy tickets in advance and travel with minimal luggage to avoid extra charges. Study the bus schedule to the city in advance so as not to depend solely on taxis.

In case of flight delay. Infrastructure at the airport is minimal, so it can be boring during a long delay. Always check the status of your flight on the airline's website before leaving for the airport. If the flight is delayed or cancelled, contact your carrier's representative to learn about your rights under EU regulations (including the right to compensation, meals, or accommodation).