Oulu Airport

Oulu Airport (OUL) is not merely an air gateway to the technological and cultural hub of the same name, but also the second busiest airport in Finland, surpassed only by the capital's Helsinki-Vantaa. Located on the shores of the Gulf of Bothnia, it serves as a vital transport hub for the entire northern part of the country, connecting businesses and tourists with the rest of the world. Modern and compact, the airport offers passengers a comfortable and peaceful atmosphere, ideally suited for beginning a journey through the amazing region of Northern Ostrobothnia.

Despite its size, Oulu Airport boasts well-thought-out infrastructure and a range of services that make waiting for a flight as convenient as possible. Passengers have access to free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal, several cafes and shops, as well as car rental desks for those planning to explore the region independently. The terminal building has been significantly modernized and expanded, featuring jet bridges that speed up the boarding and disembarking process. The airport is also used by the Finnish Air Force for training flights, so occasionally you may see more than just civilian liners in the sky.

• Official Website: You can find the most complete and up-to-date information on the official website of the operator Finavia: www.finavia.fi/ru/aeroporty/oulu. Flight schedules, terminal maps, and a list of services are available here.
• Information Service Phone: For general inquiries, you can contact the Finavia information service at +358 20 708 000.
• Airport Address: Lentokentäntie 720, 90410 Oulu, Finland.
• Email: To contact the airport, it is recommended to use the feedback form available on the official Finavia website, as a public email address is not provided.
• Social Media: You can follow news from the management company Finavia on social networks such as Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter).
• Lost Luggage Information:
  • If your inquiry concerns items left in the airport building (excluding the aircraft), please contact the lost and found office, Suomen Löytötavarapalvelu.
  • For issues regarding lost or damaged checked baggage, you must contact your airline's baggage tracing service directly.
• Passenger Support: For assistance at the airport, please visit the information desk in the terminal. For telephone consultations, use the information service number listed above.

You can reach Oulu Airport (OUL), located approximately 15 kilometers from the city center, in several convenient ways. The choice depends on your budget, amount of luggage, and time preferences. The trip typically takes between 20 to 40 minutes.

Public Transport is the most economical option. City buses operated by Oulun joukkoliikenne run regularly between the center of Oulu and the airport. The main routes are No. 8 and No. 9. They pass through key points in the city, including the railway station. Buses run from early morning until late evening, but it is worth checking the current schedule in advance. The bus ride takes about 30-40 minutes, and the ticket costs approximately 3-5 Euros. It can be purchased from the driver or via a mobile app.

Taxi or Pre-booked Transfer is the fastest and most comfortable way to get to the terminal. The journey from the city center takes about 20 minutes. The cost of a taxi ride is approximately 40-50 Euros, making this a convenient option if you are traveling with family, a large amount of luggage, or simply value speed. Cars can be found at designated stands in the city, ordered by phone, or via mobile apps.

For those who prefer complete freedom of movement, renting a car or driving your own vehicle is a good solution. The road to the airport is well signposted. Oulu Airport offers various parking options: from short-term parking for quick passenger drop-offs to long-term parking zones for those leaving their car for the duration of their trip. It is recommended to check the parking map and rates on the airport's official website in advance.

Oulu Airport (OUL) is a modern and compact aviation hub characterized by thoughtful organization and passenger convenience. Navigation here is intuitive, making pre-flight formalities quick and comfortable.

The airport consists of one passenger terminal that serves both domestic and international flights. Thanks to this, you do not have to worry about transferring between different buildings — all services and zones are under one roof. The terminal layout is logical: it is clearly divided into a departure zone and an arrival zone, located in different parts of the building, which eliminates confusion.

The Departure Zone includes check-in counters, baggage drop-off points, the security control area, and boarding gates. After passing through security, passengers enter the airside area, where there are shops, cafes, and comfortable waiting lounges. The Arrival Zone is located on the ground floor and includes baggage claim belts, customs control for international flights, and the exit to the city, where taxi stands and public transport stops are located.

Due to its small size and high efficiency, completing all procedures at Oulu Airport usually takes significantly less time than in major hubs. Check-in and security screening generally proceed quickly. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport according to standard practice: 1.5–2 hours before international flights and approximately 1–1.5 hours before domestic ones, to complete all formalities without rushing.

For easy navigation through the terminal, simply follow the clear signs in Finnish and English. The entire path from the entrance to the gate is well thought out, so getting lost here is practically impossible. This makes Oulu Airport particularly convenient for families with children and those who value their time.

The history of Oulu Airport (OUL) began in 1953 when it opened in Oulunsalo to serve the region's growing air travel needs. Initially, it was a modest airfield, but its strategic location in northern Finland predetermined its future growth. From the very beginning, it played a key role not only in passenger but also in cargo transport, supporting the regional economy.

The airport received a significant boost in development in the 1970s with the construction of the first terminal in 1973. However, the real takeoff was linked to the technological boom in Oulu, which came to be known as the "Silicon Valley of the North." As the city transformed into a high-tech center, passenger traffic grew, making the airport the second busiest in Finland after Helsinki-Vantaa. It has held this status for many years, becoming a vital transport hub for business travelers and engineers from around the world.

To meet the growing demand, Oulu Airport has been modernized repeatedly. The most extensive reconstruction was completed in 2011. During these works, the terminal area was practically doubled, new boarding gates with jet bridges were added, the baggage handling area was significantly expanded, and passenger facilities were improved, including new shops and restaurants. These changes increased capacity and comfort levels, cementing the airport's reputation as a modern and efficient transport center.

Among the interesting facts in the airport's history is its close connection with the Finnish Air Force, which also uses the airfield. Today, Oulu Airport is not just a gateway to the northern part of the country for tourists wishing to see the Northern Lights or enjoy nature. It is a vital infrastructure facility that continues to support the economic and scientific activities of the entire region, connecting it with the capital and key European cities.

Oulu Airport (OUL) offers passengers a full range of services for a comfortable wait before their flight. In the terminal, you will find cozy cafes and restaurants where you can have a full meal or a quick snack before departure. For shopping enthusiasts, there is a Duty Free shop with an assortment of perfumes, cosmetics, beverages, and Finnish souvenirs, as well as kiosks with newspapers and travel essentials.

For those who need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. Numerous charging stations for gadgets allow you not to worry about the battery level of your devices. Passengers who value enhanced comfort can use the business lounge services, where they can work or relax in a quiet atmosphere while enjoying snacks and drinks. Specially equipped conference rooms may be available for business meetings.

The airport cares for all categories of travelers. For families with children, there are mother and child rooms and a small play area where little passengers can have a fun time. Passengers with reduced mobility can count on comprehensive assistance: the airport is equipped with ramps, elevators, and special restrooms, and staff are ready to provide accompaniment if necessary.

ATMs and a mailbox are also at the passengers' disposal. In case of need, you can visit the first aid point. If you have an early departure or a long layover, there are several hotels located in the immediate vicinity of the airport, easily accessible on foot or by taxi.

Oulu Airport (OUL), despite its compact size, offers travelers several convenient dining options, from quick coffee to a hearty lunch. Most establishments are located in the departure zone after passing security control, so it is better to plan your main meal while waiting for your flight.

The main place for a full lunch or dinner is the restaurant-cafe located in the airside zone (after passport control). Here you can find a menu combining international favorites, such as burgers, salads, and sandwiches, with Scandinavian cuisine. Pay attention to offers with local flair — for example, salmon soup or dishes with reindeer, which allow you to experience the gastronomy of northern Finland. For those in a hurry, fresh pastries, coffee, and other beverages are also offered here.

If you want a snack before checking in for your flight, a small kiosk or cafe usually operates in the landside zone (public area before control). This is an ideal option to have a cup of coffee with a bun while seeing off or meeting loved ones. The assortment here is more limited, but quite sufficient for a quick bite.

Travelers with special dietary needs need not worry. In the main restaurant, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are typically available — simply check the menu or ask the staff. The price range at the airport corresponds to the average and high price levels in Finland. Opening hours of catering establishments are usually tied to the flight schedule; they open with the first departures and close after the departure of the last aircraft, ensuring service for all passengers.

Traveling through Oulu Airport, the gateway to northern Finland, usually proceeds easily and comfortably thanks to its compact size. To ensure your trip starts without stress, use these tips.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5 hours before departure, and for international flights — 2 hours. Oulu Airport is modern and efficient, but during peak hours (early morning and late afternoon) there may be queues. To save time, complete online check-in and, if traveling light, proceed immediately to security screening.

Security Control and Hand Luggage. The screening procedure is standard. Remember the rules for carrying liquids: all containers must be no more than 100 ml in volume and packed in a single transparent bag. Sharp objects are prohibited in hand luggage. Regarding seat selection on the plane, window seats will offer you magnificent views of Finnish forests and lakes during takeoff and landing, while aisle seats provide greater convenience if you need to stand up.

Transfer Passengers and Customs. Oulu Airport is not a major transit hub, so transfers here are quick. Follow the "Connecting Flights" signs. If you arrive from a country outside the Schengen area, you will have to pass through passport and customs control. For most tourists, the procedure involves passing through the "Green Channel" if you have no goods to declare.

Saving Time and Money. Pre-booking a transfer or checking the public bus schedule to the city will help save both money and stress. There are cafes inside the airport, but prices can be high, so consider bringing a light snack. You can also bring an empty water bottle and fill it after passing security control — tap water in Finland is potable, making this both economical and eco-friendly.

In Case of Flight Delay. If your flight is delayed, monitor information on the departure boards and announcements. Contact your airline representative for the latest information. Remember that when flying from the EU, you are protected by passenger rights, which may include the provision of drinks, meals, and, in case of long delays, accommodation.