Tampere-Pirkkala Airport

Tampere-Pirkkala Airport is not just a transit point, but a cozy aerial gateway to the heart of the Finnish Lakeland. Unlike noisy metropolises, a calm and measured atmosphere reigns here, allowing you to start your journey without unnecessary fuss. Thanks to its compact size and thoughtful navigation, the path from the terminal entrance to boarding the plane takes mere minutes, leaving more time for a cup of coffee before departure.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

The main "feature" of Tampere-Pirkkala is its unique two-terminal structure. Terminal 1 serves scheduled flights of classic airlines and offers a full range of services, including cafes and shops. Terminal 2 specializes in low-cost carriers and operates on the principle of maximum efficiency and speed of service. This separation allows for smart passenger flow distribution, ensuring there are practically no queues here.

Another important advantage is its strategic location. The airport is located just a 15–20 minute drive from the centre of Tampere, the country's third-largest city. This makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the Pirkanmaa region. Additionally, the airport serves as a base for the Satakunta Air Command of the Finnish Air Force, so occasionally you can see not only civil airliners but also military aircraft, adding a special character to the place.

For the most up-to-date information regarding airport operations, flight schedules, and services, it is recommended to consult official channels. Below are the contact details for Tampere-Pirkkala Airport (TMP).

• Official Website: All information regarding flights, services, and regulations can be found on the official website of the Finnish airport operator Finavia, in the section dedicated to Tampere-Pirkkala Airport: www.finavia.fi/en/airports/tampere-pirkkala
• Information Service Phone: The general Finavia information centre is available at: +358 20 708 000 (call charges may apply).
• Airport Address: Lentokentäntie 150, 33960 Pirkkala, Finland.
• Email: A direct email address for general inquiries is not provided. It is recommended to use the feedback form on the official Finavia website for communication.
• Social Media: You can follow news and updates for all Finnish airports, including Tampere-Pirkkala, on Finavia's official social media pages (Facebook, X, Instagram).
• Lost Luggage Information: If your items were lost within the airport terminal, please contact the lost and found service, Suomen Löytötavarapalvelu. If luggage or personal items were lost on board the aircraft, you must contact your airline directly.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Passenger support is provided via the general Finavia information service by phone or through the feedback form on the website.

Reaching Tampere-Pirkkala Airport (TMP), located approximately 17 km southwest of the centre of Tampere, can be done in several convenient ways. The most popular and budget-friendly option is city bus No. 103. It runs between the airport (Terminal 1) and the city centre, making stops at the railway station and the bus station. The journey takes about 30-40 minutes. The fare is calculated based on the Nysse local transport zone system, and a ticket for the necessary zones will cost approximately 5-6 Euros. This is an excellent choice for those travelling light.

If you value comfort and time, your choice is a taxi or pre-booked transfer. A taxi ride from the city centre to the airport will take approximately 20-25 minutes. The estimated cost is 40-50 Euros, depending on the carrier and the time of day. This is a more expensive option, but it is ideal for travellers with a lot of luggage, families with children, or those in a hurry to catch a flight. Taxi stands are located directly outside the terminal exits.

For those planning to actively explore the Lakeland of Finland, the optimal solution is car rental. Offices of major international and local rental companies are present at Tampere-Pirkkala Airport. By booking a car in advance, you can start your journey immediately upon arrival. If you are arriving at the airport in your own vehicle, there are several parking zones available for short-term and long-term parking. Their cost depends on the distance from the terminal and the duration of parking.

When planning your route, it is worth considering other airports in the region. For example, the country's largest international Helsinki-Vantaa Airport is located approximately 143 km from Tampere, which is about a two-hour drive or train ride. Alternatively, you can consider Turku Airport (about 124 km) or the air harbour of the city of Pori (about 96 km).

Tampere-Pirkkala Airport (TMP) is a compact and convenient aviation hub, the structure of which is clear even for those visiting for the first time. The airport consists of two terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Their key difference lies in the airlines they serve. Terminal 1 is designed for scheduled flights of traditional carriers, while Terminal 2 specializes in serving low-cost carriers and charter flights.

The airport layout is extremely simple. Both terminals are separate buildings located a few minutes' walk from each other. Transfer between them is done via the street, so there is no special transit corridor. Thanks to the small size and clear signage in Finnish, Swedish, and English, it is practically impossible to get lost here.

Terminal 1 is the main terminal and offers passengers more amenities. Located here are the check-in counters for most airlines, a cafe, a small shop, and car rental offices. The departure and arrival zones are in the same building, making the process of passing through controls quick and comfortable.

Terminal 2 is known as the "low-cost terminal". Its infrastructure is more minimalist and aimed at the fastest possible boarding and disembarking of passengers. There are fewer services here than in the main terminal, so if you have time before departure, it is worth considering this fact. It is extremely important to verify in advance with your airline which terminal your flight departs from to avoid confusion upon arrival at the airport.

Check-in and security screening at Tampere-Pirkkala Airport usually take very little time. Unlike large international hubs, long queues are rare here. Generally, it is sufficient to arrive at the airport 1.5–2 hours before departure. This allows ample time to drop off luggage without rushing, pass through security control, and reach the boarding gate, making it one of the most convenient airports in Finland for those who value their time.

The history of Tampere-Pirkkala Airport (TMP) is a story of growth and adaptation to the changing needs of aviation. The airport's journey began not in Pirkkala, but in the Härmälä district, where the first runway was opened in 1936. It was one of the first civil airports in Finland and quickly became an important hub for domestic flights.

Over the years, it became obvious that the old airport in Härmälä could not cope with increasing traffic and the requirements of modern, larger aircraft. Therefore, a decision was made to build a new airport. A new era for the region's air connectivity began in 1979 with the opening of the airport at its current location — the municipality of Pirkkala. The new location allowed for the construction of a longer runway and a modern terminal, opening up opportunities for international flights.

A real breakthrough occurred in the early 2000s with the arrival of budget airlines. To cope with the sharp increase in passenger traffic, Terminal 2 was built and opened, specifically designed to serve low-cost carriers. At certain periods, Tampere-Pirkkala became the country's second busiest international airport, second only to Helsinki-Vantaa. An interesting fact: the airport has a dual purpose — in addition to civil flights, the Satakunta Air Command of the Finnish Air Force is based here.

In subsequent years, the airport was modernized repeatedly to meet modern standards of safety and passenger comfort. Today, Tampere-Pirkkala remains an important aerial gateway connecting the region with both Finnish cities and various corners of Europe, continuing its history as a key transport hub.

Tampere-Pirkkala Airport (TMP) offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its compact size, the airport is well-equipped and thoughtfully designed for the convenience of travellers heading to Tampere or other parts of Finland.

In both airport terminals, you will find cafes and restaurants where you can have a snack before your flight, drink coffee, or have a full meal. For shopping enthusiasts, there are shops, including Duty Free, where you can purchase souvenirs, perfumes, sweets, and local delicacies. The assortment of goods is oriented towards both departing and arriving passengers.

For a more comfortable wait, the Pirkkala Lounge is open in Terminal 1, available to all passengers for an additional fee. Here you can relax in a quiet atmosphere, enjoying snacks and beverages. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and charging stations for electronic devices are provided in the waiting areas so you can always stay connected.

ATMs are installed in the airport for cash withdrawals. It is important to note that there are no currency exchange offices at the airport, so it is recommended to exchange money before arriving at the airport or once you are in the city.

The airport takes care of passengers with children: there are nursery rooms equipped with changing tables. For passengers with reduced mobility, ramps, accessible toilets, and an escort service are provided, which is recommended to be booked in advance through the airline. First aid is available at the airport if necessary.

Although there are no hotels within the airport territory itself, there are many accommodation options in the immediate vicinity and in the city of Tampere. There are also no specialized conference rooms at the airport, but necessary business services are often provided by nearby hotels.

Despite its compact size, Tampere-Pirkkala Airport offers passengers several options for a snack or a full meal before departure. The main establishments are concentrated in Terminal 1, which serves the majority of flights.

In the departure area of Terminal 1 (after passing security control, airside), the main airport restaurant, Tampere Cafe, is located. Here you can quickly have a coffee with fresh pastries or have a more substantial lunch. The menu features sandwiches, salads, hot dishes such as the soup of the day, as well as traditional Finnish treats like cinnamon buns (korvapuusti). This is the best place for those who want to eat calmly while waiting for their flight. Nearby, the Pirkka Pub also operates, where you can order beverages and light snacks in a pub atmosphere.

Passengers departing from Terminal 2 (which is mainly used by low-cost airlines) should note that the selection there is extremely limited and usually consists of a small kiosk with drinks and packaged snacks. Therefore, if you have time, it is recommended to eat in Terminal 1 before moving to the departure zone of your flight.

Regarding special dietary requirements, vegetarian sandwiches and salads are available in the cafe. The selection for vegan or gluten-free diets may be small, so it is best to check ingredients with staff or rely on fruits and beverages. Muslim travellers are advised to check with staff regarding Halal options or specific ingredients. The price range corresponds to the average level for airports in Finland — be prepared for prices to be higher here than in the city. Opening hours are directly linked to the flight schedule, so they are open to serve all departing flights.

To ensure your journey through Tampere-Pirkkala Airport goes as smoothly as possible, take advantage of these tips. Being one of the important international airports in Finland, it remains sufficiently compact and easy to navigate. It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before international flights and 1.5 hours before domestic ones. This will give you enough time to complete all formalities without rushing, even during peak hours.

To save time, check in for your flight online and, if travelling with hand luggage only, proceed directly to security control. The security checkpoint at Tampere Airport works efficiently, but be prepared: pack all liquids (up to 100 ml each) in a transparent bag with a volume of no more than 1 litre in advance, and be ready to remove laptops and other large electronics from your bag.

When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your priorities. A window seat will give you the opportunity to enjoy views of the Finnish Lakeland during takeoff and landing. An aisle seat provides more legroom and allows you to stand up freely without disturbing neighbours. If you want to be among the first to exit the aircraft, choose seats in the front of the cabin.

Strictly observe the rules for carrying hand luggage. In addition to restrictions on liquids, it is forbidden to take sharp objects (knives, scissors with blades longer than 6 cm), flammable substances, weapons, and imitation weapons on board. Power banks and other batteries can be carried only in hand luggage; checking them into hold luggage is prohibited.

If you have a transfer at Tampere-Pirkkala, pay attention to signs for transit passengers. Transfers within the Schengen area usually go quickly as they do not require passport control. If you are flying from a non-Schengen country to the Schengen area (or vice versa), you will need to pass border control, so allow extra time for this.

Customs control is organized according to the "green" and "red" channel system. If you are arriving from an EU country and have no goods to declare, proceed confidently through the green channel. If you are carrying goods exceeding established limits (for example, a large amount of tobacco) or cash sums over 10,000 Euros, you should pass through the red channel and declare them.

To save money, book your transfer to the city or parking online in advance — this is often cheaper. Bring an empty reusable water bottle with you, which can be filled at drinking fountains after passing security control. This will help avoid buying expensive water at the airport.

In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative for information and instructions. Keep an eye on updates on information screens. Remember that in accordance with EU legislation (Regulation 261/2004), during long delays, passengers have the right to meals, drinks, and in some cases — hotel accommodation and compensation.