Parnu Airport

Pärnu Airport is not just a transport hub, but a modern and cosy aerial gateway to the "Summer Capital" of Estonia. Following a large-scale reconstruction, this boutique airport has become a true example of comfort, free from the hustle and bustle of giant hubs, where your holiday begins literally from the first minutes after landing. Thanks to its compact size, it offers travellers a unique experience: you can get from the plane to a taxi faster than you can finish your coffee. Located just a few kilometres from the famous sandy beaches and spa hotels, the airport is ideal for those who value their time and tranquillity.

Features and advantages of the airport:

• New Terminal: The airport reopened in 2022 after major reconstruction. The updated infrastructure includes a modern passenger terminal and an extended runway capable of accommodating larger airliners.
• Speed of Service: The main trump card of Pärnu Airport is its intimacy. There are practically no queues at check-in and security, and all procedures are completed as quickly and stress-free as possible.
• Convenient Location: The airport is located very close to the city limits. A taxi or bus ride to the city centre and the beach area takes only 10–15 minutes.
• Connection to Islands: The airport serves as an important link for flights to Estonia's small islands, such as Ruhnu, making it an excellent starting point for eco-tourism enthusiasts.
• Free Amenities: Parking and free Wi-Fi are available for passengers, adding comfort while waiting for a flight.

• Official Airport Website: parnu.tallinn-airport.ee
• Information Service Phone: +372 447 5001 (flight and service information)
• Airport Address: Pärnu lennujaam, Eametsa küla, Tori vald, 85001 Pärnu maakond (Eametsa village, Tori parish, Pärnu county, Estonia)
• Email: parnu.info@tll.aero
• Lost Luggage Information: contact via phone +372 447 5001 or write to parnu.info@tll.aero (found items are stored for 1 month)
• Passenger Support Contacts: service for passengers with special needs and general enquiries — +372 447 5001

Thanks to the compactness of the city and the convenient location of the terminal, the journey to Pärnu Airport (EPU) takes minimal time and does not cause the stress typical of large metropolises. The airport is located in the village of Eametsa, just 6–7 kilometres from the city centre, allowing you to reach it in literally 15 minutes by car.

Taxi and Transfer

The most popular and convenient way to get to the terminal is by taxi. Both popular aggregators (for example, Bolt) and local taxi companies (Pärnu Takso, Bristol Takso) operate in Pärnu. A car can be ordered via a mobile app or by phone.

• Travel Time: From the city centre or the beach district, the trip will take about 10–15 minutes.
• Cost: The average bill for a trip from the centre of Pärnu is 8–12 Euros, depending on the time of day and demand.

Public Transport

A budget option for those travelling light is city buses. The stop closest to the terminal is called "Lennujaam" (Airport); however, it is worth noting that it is located on the highway, approximately 400–500 metres from the terminal entrance, so a small part of the journey will have to be covered on foot.

• Routes: County and city lines pass through the stop, for example, buses heading towards Tori or Sindi. It is recommended to check the schedule in advance on the local transport portal peatus.ee.
• Cost: A city bus ticket costs about 1.50 Euros (it may be more expensive if purchased from the driver).
• Travel Time: A bus ride from the centre will take about 20–25 minutes.

Car Rental and Parking

If you prefer freedom of movement, you can use a rental car. This is especially convenient if you plan to explore not only Pärnu but also the surrounding county. Driving from the city centre, follow the Tallinn Highway (Tallinna mnt) and watch for signs to the airport (Lennujaam).

One of the main pleasant features of Pärnu Airport is parking. A parking lot is provided directly in front of the terminal for passengers and greeters. As a rule, in small regional airports in Estonia, parking is provided free of charge (we strongly recommend checking current signs upon entry, as rules may change).

Alternative Airports Nearby

Since Pärnu Airport serves a limited number of flights (mainly seasonal and charter), many tourists use large international hubs for arrival and then travel to Pärnu by bus or car.

Nearest major hubs:

• Tallinn Airport (TLL) — the country's main air gateway, located 113 km from Pärnu. This is the most popular option: from Tallinn Airport, you can comfortably reach Pärnu on a Lux Express bus in 1.5–2 hours.
• Riga International Airport (RIX) — located in Latvia, 169 km from Pärnu. Riga Airport offers the widest network of routes and is often used by tourists heading to Southern Estonia. The bus transfer takes about 2.5 hours.
• Helsinki-Vantaa Airport (HEL) — located 213 km away (including the Tallinn-Helsinki ferry crossing). An excellent option for transcontinental flights.

For domestic or regional flights, the following may also be of interest:

• Kuressaare Airport (URE) — 117 km. Located on the island of Saaremaa.
• Kresty (PKV) — 242 km. An airport in Pskov, serving regional flights.

Pärnu Airport is arranged as simply and logically as possible, which fully corresponds to the concept of a cosy regional aviation hub. The entire airport complex consists of one passenger terminal, which serves both domestic flights (for example, to the islands) and international charter programmes. Thanks to the building's compactness and the absence of complex passageways, navigation here is intuitive even for those flying for the first time.

Terminal Layout and Zoning

The airport building is a modern single-storey structure where all necessary services are within walking distance of each other. It is impossible to get lost here — the passenger route is a straight line from the entrance to the aircraft.

• Departure Zone: Upon entering the terminal, you immediately find yourself in the general hall where the check-in counters are located. To the left of the entrance, you will usually find the security screening areas. After completing formalities, passengers enter a small but comfortable secure waiting lounge with panoramic windows overlooking the runway.
• Arrival Zone: Arriving passengers enter the terminal either on foot across the apron (the distance from the plane to the door is minimal) or, in rare cases, are driven to the entrance. The baggage claim area is located in the same building and is equipped with one conveyor belt. The exit to the city is located immediately after the baggage claim area.

Terminal Features

Following recent reconstruction, the terminal has received a modern Scandinavian-style design: plenty of light, use of wood in the finishing, and ergonomic space. The main feature of Pärnu Airport is the absence of jet bridges ("sleeves"). Boarding and disembarking are carried out in the traditional way, which adds a certain charm to the trip, allowing you to breathe in the fresh sea air immediately after landing.

The terminal is equipped with everything necessary for a short wait:

• Restrooms (including facilities for people with disabilities).
• A small seating area.
• Information screens.

Processing Time

One of the main advantages of flying from Pärnu is the phenomenal speed of service. There are no endless queues here, typical of capital hubs.

• Check-in: Usually opens 1.5–2 hours before departure, but the actual processing and baggage drop-off take literally 5–10 minutes.
• Security: Security checks are very quick. In most cases, no more than 15–20 minutes pass from the airport entrance to a seat in the departure lounge.

However, despite the speed, we recommend arriving at the airport in advance (at least 45–60 minutes before departure) to avoid unnecessary stress in case of unforeseen delays.

Navigation Recommendations

Since there is only one terminal, you do not need to look for transfers or passageways between buildings. If you are flying to the island of Ruhnu or other small islands, the procedure may be even simpler (sometimes it is enough to show a document to the pilot or agent). Pay close attention to the display boards and announcements, as voice messages are very audible in the small hall. For meeters and greeters, a waiting area is provided right at the exit from the arrival zone, so it is practically impossible to miss your guests.

The history of aviation in Estonia's "Summer Capital" began long before the appearance of the modern glass terminal. Pärnu Airport (EPU) has travelled a long and complex path from a military facility to a cosy civil harbour, becoming a symbol of the development of the region's tourism infrastructure.

From Military Airfield to Civil Flights

The current airport is located on the site of a former Soviet military airfield known as Suurküla. It was built during the Cold War era and possessed powerful infrastructure designed to accommodate interceptor fighter jets. The runway was then laid with concrete slabs typical of military facilities of that time.

The airport's civil history began in independent Estonia:

• 1992: The airfield was transferred to the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Transport and Communications of Estonia. From this moment, its transformation into a civil facility began.
• 1990s: The airport began serving the first passenger and charter flights, however, the infrastructure inherited from the military required serious adaptation to civil aviation standards.
• 2000s and 2010s: During this period, the airport functioned mainly as a base for flights to small islands (Kihnu, Ruhnu) and for private aviation. Due to the deteriorating condition of the runway, accommodating large aircraft became impossible.

Major Reconstruction 2021–2022

A key turning point in the airport's recent history was the state's decision on large-scale modernisation. The old airfield no longer met safety and comfort requirements, so an ambitious renewal project was developed.

Main changes:

• Runway: A complete reconstruction of the runway was carried out. It was lengthened to 1970 metres and widened to 30 metres, allowing it to accommodate medium-haul airliners such as the Airbus A320 or Boeing 737.
• New Terminal: The passenger terminal was practically rebuilt from scratch. The building area increased, modern security screening systems, a check-in area, and a cosy waiting lounge appeared. The total area of the terminal amounted to about 900 square metres.
• Opening: The grand opening of the renovated airport took place in the summer of 2022. The first significant event was the reception of a scheduled flight by Finnair from Helsinki, symbolising Pärnu's return to the map of international aviation.

Interesting Facts and Achievements

Despite its modest size, Pärnu Airport has several unique features that distinguish it from other regional hubs.

• Fastest "Road to the Sea": This is perhaps the only international airport in the region from where you can reach the sea beach by taxi in less than 15 minutes.
• Vital Necessity: For residents of the island of Ruhnu (one of Estonia's most remote small islands), flights from Pärnu are not a luxury but a vital link to the "mainland", especially in winter when ferry services may be interrupted.
• Largest Hangar: A huge hangar is located on the airport territory, preserved from Soviet times and renovated. It is now used for the maintenance and parking of aircraft.
• Ecological Course: During the airport's reconstruction, special attention was paid to energy efficiency. The terminal is equipped with modern heating and ventilation systems that minimise the carbon footprint, which corresponds to Pärnu's status as a green resort.

Pärnu Airport (EPU) is a classic example of a "boutique airport", where the number of services strictly corresponds to passenger traffic. You will not find huge shopping galleries or food courts here, typical of megacities. The terminal infrastructure is designed on the principle of "necessary minimum with maximum comfort". Since most passengers spend very little time here before departure, the service is focused on basic needs and a calm atmosphere.

Dining and Shops

Given the compactness of the terminal, shopping and dining options here are limited but sufficient for a short wait.

• Cafe: In the departure zone, a small pop-up cafe or self-service point usually operates, where you can drink a cup of hot coffee, buy water, soft drinks, and light snacks (sandwiches, pastries). There are no full-service restaurants with hot meals in the terminal, so if you plan a substantial lunch, it is better to visit establishments in the city before travelling to the airport.
• Shops: There are no large Duty Free zones here. Depending on the season and flight schedule, a small retail point with souvenirs, Estonian sweets, and press may operate.

Connectivity and Work

Estonia is famous for its digital development, and Pärnu Airport is no exception.

• Wi-Fi: Free wireless internet is available throughout the terminal (in check-in, waiting, and arrival zones). Connection usually does not require complex authorisation and features high speed.
• Charging Devices: In the waiting lounge after reconstruction, sockets and USB ports are provided for charging gadgets, so you can easily stay connected.

Financial Services

Travellers should take care of cash or check card balances in advance.

• Currency Exchange and Banks: There are no bank branches or currency exchange points in the airport building.
• ATMs: The availability of ATMs may depend on the season, so it is strongly recommended to withdraw cash (Euros) in the city. However, cafes and service counters almost always accept bank cards.

Comfort and Waiting Lounges

Due to the small size, there is no separation into regular and business lounges at Pärnu Airport. The entire "airside" waiting lounge (the area after security) resembles a business lounge in terms of comfort level: it is quiet here, comfortable modern seats are installed, and panoramic windows offer a view of the runway and, sometimes, wild animals grazing nearby, adding local colour.

Passengers with Children

The airport is friendly to family travellers thanks to the absence of crowds and queues.

• Amenities: Changing tables for infants are provided in the restrooms.
• Safety: The small space allows parents to easily keep an eye on children — it is practically impossible to get lost here. There are no specialised playrooms, so we recommend taking toys or colouring books in your hand luggage.

Passengers with Reduced Mobility

After the 2022 reconstruction, the terminal became fully accessible for people with reduced mobility.

• Barrier-Free Environment: The airport is single-storey; there are no complex stairs or long passageways. All entrances and exits are equipped with ramps or are at ground level.
• Restrooms: Specially equipped toilets are available both in the general zone and in the departure zone.
• Staff Assistance: Since boarding takes place without jet bridges, airport staff provide full assistance during boarding and disembarking, using special equipment (ambulift) if necessary. It is recommended to notify the airline of the need for assistance at least 48 hours before departure.

Medical Assistance

There is no full-fledged medical centre or pharmacy in the terminal. Security and passenger service staff are trained in first aid and have the necessary first aid kits. In case of serious health problems, an ambulance arrives from the city of Pärnu in the shortest possible time (travel time less than 10–15 minutes).

Hotels and Accommodation

There are no hotels directly on the airport territory, as the terminal closes at night if there are no flights. However, thanks to the proximity to the city, this is not a problem.

• In Pärnu Centre: Just 6–7 km from the airport (10–15 minutes by taxi), there is a huge selection of accommodation: from luxurious spa hotels (such as Hedon SPA or Tervise Paradiis) to cosy guest houses.
• Nearest Options: If you need to spend the night as close to the airport as possible, you can consider guest houses in the Sauga area, located 3–4 km from the terminal.

The gastronomic infrastructure of Pärnu Airport (EPU) fully reflects its "boutique airport" concept: there are no noisy food courts or fast-food chains here. The choice is limited but focused on quality and convenience for passengers waiting for their flight. Since the terminal serves a small number of flights, catering is organised as concisely as possible.

Cafes and Coffee Shops

In the airport's single terminal, there is usually one food outlet operating in a pop-up cafe format.

• Location: The cafe is located in the Airside zone, meaning it is available only to passengers who have already passed check-in and security screening. In the general area (Landside), there are usually no food outlets, except for vending machines.
• Opening Hours: The cafe's schedule is strictly tied to the flight schedule. It opens approximately 1.5–2 hours before the flight departure and closes immediately after passengers board. On days when there are no flights, the cafe does not operate.
• Menu: The assortment includes hot drinks (coffee, tea), soft drinks, juices, water, as well as light snacks: fresh sandwiches, pastries (pies, croissants), packaged salads, chocolate, and snacks. Hot meals prepared to order (soups, steaks, pasta) are not offered here.

Price Range

Prices at Pärnu Airport correspond to the average level of Estonian transport hubs — they are slightly higher than in ordinary city shops, but remain reasonable.

• Cup of coffee (cappuccino/latte): 3.50–4.50 Euros.
• Sandwich: 5.00–7.00 Euros.
• Bottle of water (0.5 l): about 2.00–2.50 Euros.

Special Dietary Requirements (Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Halal)

Due to the limited assortment, specialised options are difficult to find. Vegetarian sandwiches with cheese or vegetables may be offered at the cafe, but there is no guarantee of vegan or gluten-free items.

Tip: If you follow a strict diet (Halal, gluten-free, vegan), it is strongly recommended to bring food with you. Aviation security rules allow carrying solid foods (sandwiches, fruit, nuts, bars) in hand luggage, provided they do not contain large amounts of liquid or sauces.

Local Delicacies

Even in such a small cafe, you can find echoes of Estonian tastes. Pay attention to:

• Kalev Chocolate: The famous Estonian brand, bars or tablets of which are often sold at the checkout. An excellent option for a last-minute souvenir or snack.
• Kohuke (Curd Snack): Sometimes you can find this beloved local dessert in the refrigerators — a glazed curd snack that goes perfectly with coffee.

Recommendations for Passengers

Considering the airport's proximity to the city, the best dining strategy would be as follows:

1. Full Meal in the City: Since the journey from the centre of Pärnu to the terminal takes only 10–15 minutes, it makes sense to have a leisurely lunch or dinner in one of the numerous restaurants of the "Summer Capital" before leaving. This will ensure you a much larger selection of dishes and comfort.
2. Quick Snack at the Airport: Count on the cafe in the terminal only as a place where you can drink coffee and have a light snack before boarding. Do not arrive at the airport hungry in hopes of a substantial lunch.
3. Vending Machines: Vending machines with drinks and chocolates may be installed in the waiting area for those who want a quick and budget-friendly snack, even if the cafe is closed.

Travelling through a regional airport has its own specifics. Pärnu Airport (EPU) differs from giant hubs in its calmness and speed, however, even here, knowledge of local nuances will help make the trip flawless. Here is a selection of practical tips for tourists.

Optimal Arrival Time

Unlike large international airports, there is no need to arrive three hours before departure in Pärnu. Thanks to the compactness of the terminal and the absence of queues, arriving 60–90 minutes before departure time is considered optimal. This is quite enough to check in luggage and pass security without rushing. If you are travelling only with hand luggage and have already checked in online, you can arrive 45 minutes before, but it is better to leave a small margin of time for unforeseen circumstances.

Check-in and Security Control

Procedures here take place in a relaxed atmosphere, but aviation security rules are strictly observed.

• Documents: Keep your passport and boarding pass (on your phone or printed) handy. In the small terminal, there are not many turnstiles; checks are often carried out by staff personally.
• Liquids: Standard EU rules apply at security. Liquids must be in containers of no more than 100 ml and packed in one transparent resealable bag with a volume of up to 1 litre. Remove it from your bag in advance.
• Electronics: Laptops and tablets must be removed from bags and placed in separate trays.

Seat Selection on the Plane

Flights from Pärnu are often operated on small regional aircraft (for example, ATR) or medium-haul airliners.

• Views: During take-off and landing, stunning views open up of Pärnu Bay, the beach strip, and the resort city immersed in greenery. Try to choose a Window seat.
• Noise: If you are flying on a turboprop aircraft, remember that seats near the propellers (in the front part of the cabin) may be noisier. For quietness, choose the rear of the cabin.

Hand Luggage: What is Allowed and Prohibited

Requirements for hand luggage are standard for European carriers, but there are nuances that are often forgotten:

• Batteries: Power banks and spare lithium batteries can be carried only in hand luggage. Checking them in with luggage is strictly prohibited.
• Food: You can bring solid food with you (sandwiches, nuts, fruit). This is a good idea, as the choice of food in the terminal is limited.
• Prohibited: Sharp and cutting objects (manicure scissors, corkscrews) and imitation weapons will be confiscated at security.

Tips for Transit Passengers

Pärnu Airport is most often the starting or ending point of a route. However, if you are flying with a connection (for example, via Helsinki):

• Single Ticket: If your flight is booked as a single reservation, luggage is usually checked through to the final destination immediately. Clarify this at the counter in Pärnu.
• Connection: Keep in mind that flights from Pärnu may depend on weather conditions. Allow at least 2 hours for a transfer at the hub so as not to risk it in case of a departure delay.

Customs Nuances

Estonia is part of the Schengen Area and the European Union.

• Within the EU: For flights to other EU countries, there is no customs control as such; restrictions apply only to the amount of alcohol and tobacco for personal use.
• Tax Free: If you are a non-EU resident and are leaving the European Union via Pärnu, check the possibility of tax refund processing in advance, as the customs point may work on request or have a limited schedule.

How to Save Time and Money

• Water: Do not buy water before security — you will have to throw it away. Take an empty bottle with you. In the airside zone, drinking tap water is often available in restrooms (in Estonia it is of high quality), or ask to have it filled at the cafe.
• Transfer: Do not order expensive private transfers through travel agencies. A regular taxi via an app (for example, Bolt) to the city centre will cost 2–3 times cheaper.
• Dining: Eat in the city before leaving. Prices in the airport cafe are higher than in the city, and the choice is more modest.

If the Flight is Delayed

In case of a flight delay in a small airport, there are few leisure options.

• Watch the Board: In the small hall, information is announced by voice, but it is better to monitor the flight status via apps (for example, FlightRadar24 or the airline's website).
• Return to the City: If the delay is more than 4–5 hours, the unique location of the airport plays into your hands. You can take a taxi and return to the centre or the beach to spend time in comfort, rather than sitting in a chair. The road takes only 15 minutes.
• Passenger Rights: Remember that EU Regulation 261/2004 applies to flights from Estonia. For long delays (usually from 2 hours), you are required to be provided with drinks and communication, and for longer ones — meals.