Kajaani Airport

Kajaani Airport (KAJ) is not merely a transport hub, but a cozy aerial gateway to the very heart of Finnish lake nature and the Kainuu region. This compact air terminal welcomes travelers with an atmosphere of tranquility and northern hospitality, allowing you to forget the bustle of metropolises immediately upon landing. Your acquaintance with boundless forests, the region's unique history, and popular ski resorts, located just an hour's drive away, begins here.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

The main advantage of Kajaani Airport is its compact atmosphere and lack of queues. Thanks to the low passenger flow, all procedures, from check-in to baggage claim, are completed as quickly as possible, which is especially appreciated by tourists eager to get to the slopes of Vuokatti or fishing on the pristine lakes. The staff here is known for their friendliness and readiness to help, creating a sense of home-like comfort from the first minutes of your stay.

The terminal's location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the Kainuu region. The airport is located just a 15-minute drive from the city center and has convenient connections to major tourist locations. For those who value their time, parking is available in the immediate vicinity of the entrance, and free Wi-Fi allows you to stay connected immediately after landing.

Below you will find essential contact information for Kajaani Airport, which will help you plan your trip and resolve any potential issues.

• Official Website: The main source of information is the Kajaani airport section on the Finavia management company portal: www.finavia.fi/ru/aeroporty/kajaani.
• Information Service Phone: You can use the unified Finavia information center number at +358 20 708 000. The center serves all airports in Finland.
• Airport Address: Lentokentäntie 70, 87850 Paltaniemi, Finland.
• Email: For official inquiries, it is recommended to use the feedback form on the Finavia website, indicating Kajaani Airport in the subject line.
• Social Media: It is most convenient to follow news and updates on Finavia's official social media pages (Facebook, X, Instagram).
• Lost Luggage Information: If your belongings were lost on board the aircraft, please contact your airline directly. For items left in the terminal building, contact the information desk or Finavia's lost and found service.
• Passenger Support Service: For assistance, you can use the general telephone number or online services provided by Finavia.

Kajaani Airport (KAJ) is located just 10 kilometers north of the city center, making the journey there fast and convenient. You can get from Kajaani to the airport in several ways, each with its own advantages depending on your budget, time, and preferences.

Public Transport: Bus
The most economical way to get to the airport is to use the special shuttle bus. Its schedule is generally synchronized with flight departure and arrival times, which is very convenient for passengers. The trip from the city center takes approximately 15–20 minutes. This is an excellent choice for solo travelers and those looking to save money. It is best to check exact schedule and fare information in advance, as it may change.

Taxi and Transfer
For maximum comfort and speed, you can order a taxi. A taxi ride from the center of Kajaani to the airport will take only 10–15 minutes. This is an ideal option if you are traveling with family, a large amount of luggage, or simply value your time. The cost will be higher than the bus, but you receive "door-to-door" service. You can also book a private transfer in advance, guaranteeing a car at your required time.

Car Rental and Parking
If you plan to actively travel around the Kainuu region in Finland, renting a car will be the best solution. You can rent a car in the city and easily return it at the company's office right at the airport before departure. For those arriving at the airport in their own or a rented vehicle, parking is provided. There are zones for both short-term and long-term parking. It is recommended to check current parking rates on the official airport website.

Nearest Alternative Airports
If you haven't found suitable flights directly to Kajaani, it is worth considering airports in neighboring cities as an alternative arrival point. From there, you can reach Kajaani by train, bus, or rental car. Among the nearest options:

• Oulu Airport (OUL) — located approximately 133 km away.
• Kuopio Airport (KUO) — located at a distance of about 143 km.
• Kostomuksha Airport — approximately 149 km away.
• Kuusamo Airport (KAO) — about 203 km away.
• Joensuu Airport (JOE) — at a distance of approximately 205 km.

Kajaani Airport (KAJ) is a compact and efficient regional airport consisting of one passenger terminal. Both domestic and international (mostly seasonal and charter) flights are serviced in this single building. Thanks to its simplicity and small size, the airport ensures fast and comfortable passenger service.

The terminal layout is extremely logical and intuitive. Upon entry, you find yourself in the general area with check-in counters and baggage drop-off points. Immediately behind them is the security screening zone leading to the departure hall. Departure and arrival zones are located in the same building but are functionally separated, eliminating confusion. Navigation is very simple thanks to clear signs in Finnish and English.

Since there is only one terminal, you do not need to worry about transfers between buildings — they simply do not exist. All boarding gates are located in one waiting hall after passing security control. One of the main advantages of Kajaani Airport is the speed of procedures. Flight check-in and screening usually take no more than 20-30 minutes, which significantly saves time and reduces stress compared to major airports.

For a comfortable journey, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1.5 hours before a domestic flight and 2 hours before an international one. This time will be more than sufficient to go through all formalities without rushing. Simply follow the signs, and you will easily find your boarding gate. This airport in Finland is an excellent example of how a small aerial gateway can be maximally convenient for travelers.

The history of Kajaani Airport (KAJ) is closely linked to key events in the history of Finland. The airport was built in 1939, and the first terminal building was completed in 1940. Initially, it was created as a military airfield and played an important strategic role for the Finnish Air Force during the Winter War and World War II, serving as a vital airbase in the Kainuu region.

The post-war years opened a new chapter in the airport's history. The transition to civil aviation began in 1956, when the airline Aero O/Y (known today as Finnair) operated the first regular passenger flight. This moment became a turning point, transforming the military facility into a key transport hub that connected the remote region with the rest of the country and contributed to its economic development.

With increasing passenger flow and technological development, Kajaani Airport went through several stages of modernization. In the 1950s, a new runway was built. The most significant reconstruction took place in 1993, when a new, modern terminal building was put into operation. Later, the runway was extended to 2,500 meters, allowing the airport to accommodate larger types of aircraft.

Today, Kajaani Airport serves as an important aerial gateway catering to both locals and tourists wishing to explore the natural beauty and culture of the Kainuu region. Its history is a vivid example of successful transformation from a military facility into a modern civil airport playing an integral role in the life of northern Finland.

Kajaani Airport (KAJ) is a compact and modern regional airport offering passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait before their flight. Despite its small size, the terminal is designed so that your journey begins without unnecessary hassle.

Before departure, you can have a snack in a cozy cafe offering fresh pastries, sandwiches, and beverages. Here you can also find a small selection of souvenirs to remember your trip to the Kainuu region. Please note that there are no large shops or Duty Free zones at the airport.

Free Wi-Fi is available for passengers throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay connected or work while waiting for your flight. There are also stations for charging mobile devices. Specialized business lounges or VIP zones are not provided at the airport, but the general waiting area is sufficiently comfortable.

An ATM is installed in the airport building for cash withdrawals. However, currency exchange points are absent, so it is better to take care of this in advance. A mother and child room is equipped for passengers with children. The airport is fully accessible for people with reduced mobility, and staff are ready to provide necessary assistance. It is important to remember that assistance services should be booked in advance through your airline. Basic first aid is also available at the airport.

There are no hotels on the airport grounds, but the nearest accommodation options are just a few minutes' drive away in the city of Kajaani. For business travelers, the airport offers the possibility to rent a small meeting room, which must be booked in advance. This is a convenient option for holding meetings right upon arrival or before departure. The airport serves as a convenient gateway for travels through the picturesque corners of Finland.

Kajaani Airport (KAJ) is a compact regional airport, so dining options here are concentrated in one place and designed for passengers waiting for their flight. All establishments are located in the single passenger terminal, making finding and accessing them as simple as possible.

The main and, essentially, the only place for a snack at the airport is Cafe Kajaani. It is located in the general area of the terminal (landside), before security control, making it convenient for both departing passengers and those meeting or seeing someone off. Due to the airport's small size, you can reach the cafe from any point in the building in a couple of minutes.

In the cafe menu, you will find a standard selection for a quick and light snack: fresh pastries, sandwiches, salads, as well as hot and cold beverages. There are no restaurant-format offers for a full lunch, but as a hearty alternative, the cafe can offer the soup of the day or more substantial sandwiches. If you want to try something local, pay attention to traditional Finnish pastries, such as cinnamon buns known as pulla.

regarding special dietary needs, the selection may be limited. Basic vegetarian sandwiches will likely be available, but for specific vegan or gluten-free options (or to inquire about ingredients for Halal requirements), it is best to speak directly with the cafe staff. The establishment's operating hours are tied to the flight schedule — it opens before departures and closes after the last aircraft has left. Prices can be characterized as average for Finnish airports.

Arrival and Check-in: Kajaani Airport is compact and convenient, so long queues are rare here. It is recommended to arrive 1.5–2 hours before a domestic flight within Finland to calmly check in luggage and pass through security. To save time, use online check-in on your airline's website. Despite the airport's small size, security rules here are just as strict as everywhere else.

In the Aircraft Cabin: Want to see the picturesque lake region from above? Choose a window seat. For greater comfort, an aisle seat is suitable. Keep in mind that small aircraft are often used on flights from Kajaani, so seat selection may be limited. Regarding carry-on luggage, remember the standard restriction on liquids (containers up to 100 ml in a transparent bag) and be sure to verify weight and dimension limits with your airline.

Connections and Customs Control: Most flights from Kajaani operate with a connection in Helsinki. When purchasing a ticket, allow enough time for the transfer, especially if flying further outside the Schengen area. Customs control is passed at the first airport of entry into the EU, so in Kajaani, this procedure is relevant only for very rare international charters. There is no customs control for flights within the EU.

Useful Tips and Force Majeure: To save time and money, check in online, travel light, and book your transfer to the city in advance. If your flight is delayed or canceled, immediately contact an airline representative. Remember your rights as a passenger in the EU (Regulation 261/2004), which may include the provision of food, beverages, and even a hotel. Keep all receipts for expenses incurred due to the delay.