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Vagar Airport

About the Airport

Vagar Airport. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars

Vagar Airport is the sole aerial gateway to the Faroe Islands and the place where your acquaintance with the archipelago's rugged beauty begins. Landing here is considered one of the most picturesque in the world: the aircraft descends between green mountains and the waters of Lake Sørvágsvatn, which appears to hover above the ocean. Built by the British during World War II, today it is a modern and cozy aviation hub that, despite its compact size, connects the islands with the outside world and ensures a comfortable start to any journey.

IATA Code FAE
ICAO Code EKVG
City Sørvágur (serves Tórshavn)
Distance to Center ~47 km (about 45 min to Tórshavn)
Status International
Passengers per Year ~431,000 (2023 data)
Schedule Online board

Features and Advantages of the Airport:

The main advantage of Vagar is its compactness and efficiency. There are practically never long queues here, and the journey from the aircraft stairs to the terminal exit takes just a few minutes. This allows tourists to pass through passport control and retrieve their luggage as quickly as possible to immediately set off to explore the islands.

The airport is located in a strategically important and beautiful spot on the island of Vagar. Just a few minutes' drive away are famous landmarks such as the Múlafossur waterfall in the village of Gásadalur and the "floating lake." Thanks to the subsea tunnel Vágatunnilin, the trip to the capital, Tórshavn, by bus or rental car takes less than an hour, making logistics incredibly convenient.

Inside the terminal, despite its small size, there is everything necessary: a Duty Free zone with local goods and beverages, a café with a panoramic view of the runway, and a car rental desk. Travelers often note the friendly atmosphere and cleanliness, which set the right tone for the entire stay in the Faroe Islands.

Contact Information

  • Official Website: www.fae.fo
  • Information Desk Phone: +298 35 44 00
  • Airport Address: Vága Floghavn, FO-380 Sørvágur, Faroe Islands
  • Email: fae@fae.fo
  • Social Media: You can follow airport news on Facebook and Instagram.
  • Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to checked baggage, please contact your airline directly. If you have lost personal items within the airport terminal, contact the Lost & Found office at +298 35 44 60 or via email at hittad@fae.fo.
  • Passenger Support Service: For general information and assistance, please contact the help desk at the main airport phone number.

How to Get to the Airport

Vagar Airport (FAE), the only aerial gateway to the Faroe Islands, is located approximately 45 kilometers from the capital, the city of Tórshavn. The journey from the center to the terminal passes along picturesque roads and through a subsea tunnel, which is an adventure in itself. You can reach the airport in several convenient ways.

Public Transport: The most affordable and popular option is the bus. Route No. 300 operated by Strandfaraskip Landsins runs regularly between the bus terminal in Tórshavn and the airport. The trip takes approximately 50-60 minutes, and the ticket cost is about 100 Danish kroner (DKK). This is an excellent way to not only save money but also admire the breathtaking landscapes along the way. We recommend checking the schedule on the carrier's official website in advance, as the frequency of trips may change.

Taxi and Transfer: For greater comfort, especially if you are traveling with large luggage or in a group, you can use taxi services. The trip will take about 45 minutes but will cost significantly more than the bus — the estimated cost is 700-800 Danish kroner. To guarantee availability, it is better to book a taxi or private transfer in advance. Many companies offer a fixed price for trips to the airport.

Car Rental: If you plan to actively travel around the Faroe Islands, the ideal solution would be car rental. Rental company offices are located both in Tórshavn and directly at Vagar Airport. Having your own transport will give you freedom of movement and allow you to explore the most remote corners of the archipelago at your own pace. The road to the airport by car is simple and well-marked.

Airport Parking: For those arriving at the airport in a rented or private car, a parking lot is equipped on the terminal grounds. Here you can leave your car for both short and long terms. This is a convenient option if you are flying off the islands for a few days.

Terminals and Map

Vagar Airport (FAE) is distinguished by a well-thought-out and modern structure that makes it extremely convenient for passengers. The main feature of the airport is that it consists of just one passenger terminal, which serves all flights, both domestic and international.

The terminal layout is extremely simple and intuitive. The building is modern, designed in a Scandinavian style with panoramic windows offering views of the runway and the picturesque surroundings. Since there is only one terminal, there is no issue of transferring between them — all zones are within walking distance of each other. Departure and arrival zones are located on the same level but are clearly separated to avoid confusion.

After entering the terminal, you immediately find yourself in the check-in area. After completing check-in and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed to pre-flight security screening. The departure area (gate area) is a cozy space with a Duty Free shop, several cafes, and ample seating. Thanks to the airport's compactness, the walk from the check-in counter to the boarding gate rarely takes much time.

Completing all formalities, including check-in and security, usually happens very quickly — often taking no more than 20-30 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport generally 2 hours before an international flight to go through all procedures without rushing, have a coffee, and enjoy the views. Orienting yourself in Vagar Airport is very easy thanks to clear signage and its small size, so getting lost here is practically impossible.

Airport History

The history of Vagar Airport (FAE) is inextricably linked to key events of the 20th century in the Faroe Islands. Its appearance is a direct consequence of World War II. The airfield was built in 1942 by British Royal Engineers during the occupation of the islands. The main objective was to create a military base for defense against Nazi Germany. After the war ended, the airfield was abandoned and remained inactive for almost two decades.

The revival of the airport began in the 1960s. In 1963, after lengthy negotiations and preparatory work, the airport was opened for civil aviation. The first flights were seasonal and operated on small DC-3 aircraft. This was a real breakthrough, as until that moment, the only way to reach the islands was by sea. However, the short runway and complex weather conditions severely limited aviation capabilities.

An important stage in development was the creation of the national airline Atlantic Airways in 1987, for which Vagar Airport became the main hub. This stimulated further infrastructure modernization. A key reconstruction took place in 2011, when the runway was extended from 1,250 to 1,799 meters. This allowed for the reception of larger aircraft, such as the Airbus A319, and paved the way for direct flights to a greater number of European cities, significantly increasing tourist flow.

Following the runway expansion, in 2014, a new, modern passenger terminal was opened, replacing the old building constructed in 1977. The new building not only increased throughput capacity but also made the stay at the airport much more comfortable. An interesting fact: the airport is located on the island of Vagar, while the capital, Tórshavn, is on the neighboring island of Streymoy. Before the construction of the subsea tunnel in 2002, the journey to the capital was quite an adventure involving a ferry crossing.

Services and Amenities

Vagar Airport (FAE) serves as the modern and compact aerial gateway to the Faroe Islands, offering passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its small size, the terminal is well-organized and equipped to meet travelers' needs.

Within the airport, you will find several options for dining and shopping. In the café, you can have coffee with fresh pastries or a full lunch while enjoying the view of the runway. The Duty-Free shop offers a standard range of goods: perfumes, cosmetics, international beverages, as well as unique Faroese souvenirs that will serve as a great reminder of your trip.

For those who value enhanced comfort, a VIP lounge operates in the airport. This is a quiet and cozy space where you can take a break from the bustle, work, or simply relax before departure. Guests of the lounge are offered complimentary snacks, drinks, and press. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and charging stations for electronic devices are located in the waiting areas.

To address financial matters, ATMs are installed in the airport. Currency exchange services are also available here, though it is recommended to verify operating hours in advance. In case first aid is required, passengers can approach airport staff who have undergone appropriate training.

Vagar Airport cares for passengers with special needs. For travelers with children, mother and child rooms with changing tables are equipped. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with all necessary assistance, including escorts through the terminal. It is recommended to book such services in advance through your airline.

If you have an early departure or late arrival, a hotel is located right next to the airport building, which is very convenient. For business travelers, conference rooms are available for rent to hold meetings or negotiations, making Vagar Airport a convenient venue for business.

Where to Eat

Vagar Airport (FAE) is the only airport in the Faroe Islands, and while it cannot boast a vast selection of restaurants like major international hubs, it has everything necessary for a comfortable meal before departure.

The main dining area is located in the departure hall, after passing security control (airside). Here you will find the main café-restaurant, which offers passengers both quick snacks and more substantial meals. The atmosphere is cozy, with panoramic views of the runway and surrounding fjords, making the wait for your flight particularly pleasant.

In the menu, you will find standard European dishes: sandwiches, salads, pastries, soups of the day, and hot drinks. For those wishing to experience local cuisine, it is worth paying attention to dishes with Faroese salmon or lamb. Local beverages are also available at the bar. This is a great opportunity to try something authentic without leaving the airport.

Regarding special dietary needs, the selection may be limited. Usually, vegetarian sandwiches or salads are available. Passengers with stricter requirements (such as vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes) are advised to check availability on-site or carry a small snack with them. The price range at the airport, as in the Faroe Islands generally, is above average. The opening hours of dining establishments are tied to the flight schedule — they are open during all departure periods and close after the last plane departs.

Recommendations:

  • For a quick snack, coffee with fresh pastries or a ready-made sandwich is ideal.
  • If you have time for a full lunch, order the hot dish of the day or try a local delicacy — an open sandwich with smoked salmon.

In the arrival area and before security control (landside), dining options are extremely limited, so main establishments should be sought in the "secure" zone.

Tips for Travelers

Traveling through Vagar Airport, the gateway to the amazing Faroe Islands, can be a pleasant start or end to your trip. To ensure everything goes smoothly, use our tips to help save time, money, and stress.

Arrival Time and Check-in. Vagar Airport is small and modern, but due to the changeable weather on the islands, schedule disruptions are possible. We recommend arriving at the airport at least 2 hours before your international flight departure. This will give you enough time for check-in, baggage drop, and security control without rushing. Online check-in helps save time.

Seat Selection on the Plane. Definitely choose a window seat! The approach to the Faroe Islands or departure from them is a breathtaking spectacle. You will see fjords, rocky cliffs, and picturesque villages from a bird's-eye view. These views will be among the most vivid impressions of the trip.

Hand Luggage and Customs. Standard rules for carrying liquids (up to 100 ml in a container, in a transparent bag) and restrictions on sharp objects apply here. Given the unpredictable weather, it is wise to pack a waterproof jacket and a warm sweater in your hand luggage. Remember that the Faroe Islands have their own customs regulations, different from Denmark and the EU. There are restrictions on the import of tobacco and certain food products. Be sure to check current regulations on official websites before traveling to avoid unpleasant surprises.

Transfer Passengers. Although Vagar is not a major transit hub, transfers here are quite quick. Check with your airline if you need to collect and re-check your luggage. Information boards and airport staff will always help you orient yourself.

Savings and Useful Hacks. Prices at the airport can be high. To save money, bring an empty water bottle (you can fill it after security) and light snacks. Transfers to Tórshavn and other settlements are best booked online in advance — this often works out cheaper than taking a taxi on the spot.

If the Flight is Delayed. Flight delays, especially due to fog, are not uncommon in the Faroes. Stay calm. The airport has a café, a duty-free shop, and free Wi-Fi. Keep your airline's contact details handy and monitor flight status updates on the boards or via a mobile app. Having travel insurance that covers flight delays and cancellations will be a big plus.

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