Joensuu Airport

Joensuu Airport (JOE) is a welcoming gateway to the picturesque region of North Karelia, where your journey begins with a sense of peace and comfort. This small but modern aviation hub is ideal for those who value convenience and the absence of the hustle and bustle typical of large international hubs. Located surrounded by dense forests and lakes, the airport serves as a starting point for trips to the famous Koli National Park and other natural gems of the region. Here, every passenger can count on fast service and true Finnish punctuality.

Features and Advantages of the Airport:

The main advantage of Joensuu Airport is its compactness and efficiency. Unlike huge terminals, everything here is within walking distance: the path from the check-in counter to the boarding gate takes just a few minutes. This allows passengers to arrive at the airport shortly before departure without fearing being late due to queues or long walks.

The airport offers excellent transport accessibility. Getting to the city centre or nearby resorts is easy: a city bus (line 6) runs regularly, a taxi rank is located right at the exit, and car rental offices operate for independent travellers. In winter, the availability of parking with engine heating facilities is particularly appreciated.

Despite its small size, the terminal is equipped with everything necessary for a comfortable wait. Passengers have access to fast and free Wi-Fi throughout the area, and a cosy cafe offers fresh pastries and coffee before the flight. The special atmosphere of tranquillity and the friendly staff make the beginning or end of a journey through Finnish Karelia as pleasant as possible.

• Official Website: Up-to-date information on flights, services, and rules can be found on the official website of the Finnish airport operator, Finavia: www.finavia.fi/en/airports/joensuu.
• Information Service Phone: For general inquiries, you can contact the Finavia information service at: +358 20 708 000.
• Airport Address: Lentoasemantie 30, 80140 Joensuu, Finland.
• Email: A direct email address for general inquiries is usually not provided. It is recommended to use the feedback form on the official Finavia website.
• Social Media: The airport does not have its own separate accounts. You can follow news on the official pages of the operator Finavia, which cover all airports under its management: Facebook, X (Twitter) and Instagram.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your belongings were lost on the plane, you must contact your airline directly. If items were lost within the Joensuu airport terminal, please use the online lost property service eFound.fi.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance directly at the airport, please approach the information desk.

Joensuu Airport (JOE) is located approximately 11 kilometres northwest of the city centre of Joensuu, making it easily accessible for travellers. You can get to the terminal or from it to the city in several ways, suitable for different budgets and preferences.

The most economical option is public transport. City buses run regularly between the airport and the centre of Joensuu. The bus schedule is often coordinated with flight arrivals and departures, which is very convenient. The trip takes approximately 20-30 minutes, and the ticket price is quite affordable. This is an excellent choice for those travelling light and wishing to save money.

For those who value comfort and speed, the ideal solution would be a taxi or transfer. The taxi rank is located right at the terminal exit. The trip to the city centre will take about 15 minutes, and its estimated cost is 25–35 Euros. Ordering a taxi or pre-booking a transfer is especially convenient if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling with children.

If you plan to actively explore the picturesque region of North Karelia in Finland, the best choice would be car rental. Offices of several rental companies are located in the airport building, where you can pick up a car immediately upon arrival. The road to the city is simple and fast. For those arriving at the airport in their own car, parking is provided with zones for both short-term and long-term stays, allowing you to leave your vehicle for the duration of your absence.

Joensuu Airport (JOE) is distinguished by its compactness and efficiency, making it very convenient for travellers. The airport operates one passenger terminal, which handles all flights — both domestic and international charters. Such a simple structure completely eliminates the need for transfers between terminals and makes navigation intuitively clear.

The terminal layout is extremely simple. All key zones are located in one building and within walking distance of each other. Upon entering the terminal, you will immediately see the check-in counters. After completing check-in and dropping off luggage, you proceed to the security checkpoint, behind which lies a small but cosy departure lounge with several gates. The arrival zone is located in the same part of the building as the main entrance, with a separate exit for arriving passengers.

Thanks to the small size of the airport, all pre-flight formalities are completed very quickly. Check-in and security control usually take no more than 20-30 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1-1.5 hours before departure to go through all procedures without rushing, especially if you are travelling with luggage or during peak season.

The main advice for navigation at Joensuu airport is not to worry. It is practically impossible to get lost here. All necessary information is displayed on screens, and signs in Finnish and English will help you orient yourself easily. Airport staff are always ready to help and answer any questions. This is a perfect example of a small regional airport where passenger convenience comes first.

The history of Joensuu Airport (JOE) is closely intertwined with the development of all Eastern Finland. The airport was built in the Onttola area and officially opened in 1937. From the very beginning, it had a dual purpose: serving both civil flights and the needs of the country's Air Force, which determined its strategic importance for many years.

During the Second World War, the airport played a key role as an important airbase. After the end of hostilities, it focused entirely on peaceful tasks, contributing to the recovery and development of the region. The first modest passenger terminal was erected in 1953, and in 1963 the runway received an asphalt surface, allowing it to accommodate more modern aircraft.

A significant stage of modernisation occurred in the 1970s and 1980s. In 1971, the airport began receiving the first jet aircraft, which significantly reduced travel time to Helsinki and other cities. In 1987, a new, more spacious terminal building was built to handle the growing passenger flow. Further development continued at the end of the 20th century: in 1999, the runway was extended to its current 2,500 metres, opening up opportunities for receiving larger aircraft.

An interesting fact: Joensuu Airport retains its dual purpose today. The Karelian Air Command (Karjalan lennosto) of the Finnish Air Force is based on its territory. For tourists, however, it is primarily a modern and convenient aerial gateway to the picturesque region of North Karelia, which is famous for its nature, lakes, and unique culture.

Joensuu Airport (JOE), despite its compact size, offers passengers all the necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. There is a cafe in the terminal where you can have a snack, drink coffee, or have a full lunch before departure. There is also a small shop here where you can purchase local souvenirs, fresh press, and travel goods.

Throughout the airport, free Wi-Fi is available for travellers, allowing you to work or stay in touch with loved ones. If your device runs out of power, you can find sockets and charging stations for gadgets in the waiting hall.

For passengers with small children, a nursing room is equipped where you can change and feed your baby in a quiet environment. Travellers with reduced mobility can receive staff assistance for moving around the terminal, as well as during boarding and disembarking. For this, it is recommended to contact the airline in advance and inform them of your needs. There are no separate VIP lounges provided at the airport.

There is an ATM in the terminal, but currency exchange counters are absent, so it is worth ensuring you have Euros in advance. For business meetings, a small conference room can be rented. In case of feeling unwell, passengers can contact airport staff for first aid.

There are no hotels directly on the airport territory, but a wide selection of accommodation options is available in the city of Joensuu, which is located approximately 11 kilometres from the air harbour. You can get there by taxi or bus in about 15-20 minutes.

Joensuu Airport (JOE) is a compact regional airport, so all main services, including dining, are located in one place and are oriented towards departing passengers. When planning a snack, keep in mind that the main choice of food awaits you after passing through security control.

In the "airside" zone of the airport, a cosy cafe operates, which opens specifically according to the flight schedule, usually 1.5–2 hours before departure. Here you can quickly drink coffee with fresh pastries or have a more substantial lunch. This is the only full-service catering establishment at the airport, so all passengers are served here.

The cafe menu offers a standard set for travellers:

• For a quick snack: sandwiches, buns, yoghurts, and various beverages.
• For a full meal: salads, soups of the day, and several options for light hot dishes.
• Local flavour: be sure to try the famous Karelian pies (karjalanpiirakka) — this is an excellent opportunity to get acquainted with the cuisine of the North Karelia region.

Regarding special dietary needs, you can usually find vegetarian sandwiches or salads in the cafe. The selection of gluten-free, vegan, or Halal dishes is likely to be limited, so it is better to clarify available options with the staff on-site. The price range is average for Finnish airports — be prepared for prices to be higher than in the city.

Important advice: in the public area of the airport (landside), before passing control, dining opportunities are practically absent, with the exception of vending machines. Therefore, if you are hungry, we recommend not lingering and proceeding immediately to the departure zone to have a snack comfortably in the cafe while waiting for your flight.

Travelling through Joensuu Airport is usually smooth and hassle-free, as it is a small regional aviation hub. To make your trip start and end as comfortably as possible, use our tips. It is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5-2 hours before domestic flights and 2-3 hours before international ones. Although procedures here are faster than in major hubs, extra time will save you from unforeseen situations.

To save time, complete check-in online — this will allow you to go straight to baggage drop or security screening if you are travelling only with hand luggage. Security control is standard for airports in Finland and the EU. Pack all liquids up to 100 ml in a transparent bag and be ready to take out your laptop and other large electronics from your bag. The staff works quickly and efficiently, but following the rules will speed up the process for everyone.

When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences. Window seats will give you magnificent views of the lake district during take-off and landing, especially if you are flying during daylight hours. Aisle seats provide more convenience if you need to stand up during the flight. Regarding hand luggage, strictly adhere to the airline's rules and general safety regulations: sharp objects, flammable substances, and liquids in containers larger than 100 ml are prohibited.

Joensuu Airport mainly serves direct flights, most often to Helsinki. If you have a connection planned, it will likely be at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport. Be sure to allow enough time for the connection (at least 1.5-2 hours), as you will have to move through a larger and busier terminal. Customs control is undergone by passengers arriving from countries outside the Schengen area. The procedure is standard and usually does not take much time.

To save time and money, use public transport that runs between the airport and the city centre — it is significantly cheaper than a taxi. Book flight tickets in advance to get the best price. In case of a flight delay, contact your airline representative for information and instructions. Remember that passenger rights apply in the EU (EC Regulation 261/2004), which may provide for compensation, meals, and accommodation depending on the length of the delay and the flight distance. In the small terminal, there is a cafe where you can have a snack and wait for your departure.