Andenes Airport

Andenes Airport, also known as Andøya, is not merely an air gateway but a starting point into the world of Arctic adventures. Located at the northernmost tip of the picturesque island of Andøya, it welcomes travellers with stunning views of the ocean and mountains. This small but strategically important airport serves a dual purpose: it handles civilian flights and acts as a base for the Royal Norwegian Air Force. Its compactness and proximity to nature make it the ideal start for exploring the Vesterålen region, famous for whale watching and the Northern Lights.

The main advantage of Andenes Airport is its unique location and intimate atmosphere. Thanks to its compact size, all pre-flight formalities and baggage claim happen here quickly and without unnecessary fuss, which is especially valuable for tourists. The airport is just a few minutes' drive from the city, allowing you to instantly immerse yourself in your journey without wasting time on long transfers. For passenger convenience, the terminal has a café, car rental desks, and free Wi-Fi. Additionally, the airport is part of a complex that also houses the Norwegian Space Centre, adding to the uniqueness of this location.

Below is the contact information for Andenes Airport (ANX) to help you plan your trip and resolve any potential issues.

• Official website: You will find the most complete and up-to-date information on the airport's official page on the operator Avinor's website: avinor.no/flyplass/andenes.
• Information desk phone: For immediate information, you can call +47 67 03 48 50.
• Airport address: Flyplassveien, 8480 Andenes, Norge.
• Email: A direct email address is not provided. It is recommended to use the contact form on the official Avinor website for communication.
• Social media: News and updates can be tracked on the official social media pages of the operator, Avinor.
• Lost luggage information: If you have lost luggage, you must first contact your airline's representative. Detailed instructions are also available in the "Bagasje" (Luggage) section of the airport website.
• Passenger support contacts: For all general questions, please contact the information desk by phone or via the feedback form on the website.

Andenes Airport (ANX) is located in the immediate vicinity of the city centre of Andenes, making the journey there quick and convenient. The distance is only about 2 kilometres, so you can reach the terminal in a matter of minutes. Depending on your budget and travel plans in Norway, you can choose one of several modes of transport.

Taxi and transfer are the simplest and fastest ways to get to the airport. The trip from the city centre will take only about 5 minutes. Given the small size of the city, it is recommended to book a car in advance, especially if your flight is early in the morning or late at night. The cost of the trip will be relatively high, which is typical for Norwegian taxis, but it is a convenient option if you have a lot of luggage. Some hotels also offer transfer services for their guests.

Public transport in this region is represented mainly by buses. Although local bus routes may pass near the airport, their schedule is not always coordinated with flight arrival and departure times. It is worth checking the current schedule on the Nordland fylkeskommune transport company website in advance. Given the short distance, many travellers prefer to get to the airport on foot — this will take about 20–30 minutes and allow you to enjoy the fresh air and views.

Car rental is the ideal option for those planning to explore the picturesque Vesterålen archipelago. Offices of several rental companies are present at Andenes Airport. Having your own car gives you complete freedom of movement and allows you to easily reach places such as the whale safari or the Andøya National Tourist Route. It is better to book a car well in advance, especially during the high tourist season (summer).

Airport parking is very convenient. Right at the terminal, there are parking spaces for both short-term and long-term parking. This is an excellent option if you have arrived in your own or a rented car. Payment is usually made via machines or mobile apps, and the system is intuitive. Information on rates is available on the official website of the Norwegian airport operator, Avinor.

The Andenes Airport (ANX) is a compact regional aviation hub serving the eponymous city in northern Norway. Its main feature is one small and convenient terminal that handles all passenger flows. Thanks to its modest size, the airport offers very simple and clear navigation, making it ideal for travellers who value time and tranquillity.

All airport infrastructure is concentrated in one building. Here you will find check-in counters, a security checkpoint, a small waiting area for departing passengers, and a baggage claim area for arrivals. The departure and arrival zones are logically separated but are within walking distance of each other. You won't have to worry about how to get from one terminal to another — everything is close at hand.

Check-in and security screening procedures at Andenes Airport usually take minimum time. Unlike major international hubs, there are rarely long queues here. The entire process, from entering the building to reaching the gate, happens quickly and without fuss. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport about an hour to an hour and a half before departure to check in your luggage and complete all formalities without rushing.

Navigation through the terminal is intuitive. All key zones — check-in, security, boarding gates — are located sequentially and equipped with clear signs. It is practically impossible to get lost here. Basic amenities necessary for a comfortable wait for your flight are available inside the terminal. This is a perfect example of how a small airport can be maximally functional and convenient for passengers.

The history of the Andenes Airport (ANX) is unique and closely intertwined with the military history of Norway. It was founded primarily as a military facility — Andøya Air Station (Andøya flystasjon). The decision to build it was made in 1952 at the height of the Cold War, and the official opening took place in 1957. Due to its strategic position on the far north of Andøya island, the base became a key NATO outpost for maritime reconnaissance and patrolling in the North Atlantic.

For decades, the airbase was home to P-3 Orion patrol aircraft squadrons, which played a vital role in monitoring submarines in the Norwegian Sea. Parallel to this, for the needs of the local population, a civilian terminal was opened in 1964, and the airport began accepting regular passenger flights. This allowed the remote Vesterålen region to be connected with the rest of the country and contributed to its economic development.

A significant historical event in the airport's recent history was the closure of the military airbase. In the summer of 2023, after more than 65 years of service, military operations at the base ceased, and the patrol aircraft were relocated. This marked the end of an era and opened a new chapter for the airport and the entire island.

Today, Andenes Airport is undergoing an impressive transformation. Military tasks have been replaced by scientific and technological ones. The existing infrastructure, including the long runway, has become the foundation for the development of the Andøya Space centre. This centre specialises in suborbital rocket launches, drone testing, and is developing a project for Europe's first spaceport for launching satellites into polar orbit. Thus, the former military facility is turning into an advanced hub for aerospace research, proving its importance in a new era.

The Andenes Airport (ANX) is a compact regional airport in Norway that provides passengers with basic amenities necessary for a comfortable wait for their flight. It is important to understand that due to the small size of the terminal, the range of services here is basic and focused on functionality.

Inside the terminal, there is a small café where you can purchase hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, and light snacks. Shopping opportunities are limited, so it is better to make major purchases in the city itself. Free Wi-Fi is available for passengers throughout the airport, and there are power outlets in the waiting lounge for charging mobile devices and laptops.

Please note that there are no bank branches, currency exchange points, ATMs, or specialised VIP lounges or business centres at Andenes Airport. It is recommended to settle all financial matters in the city beforehand. Medical assistance is limited to first aid provided by airport staff; there is no pharmacy in the building.

For passengers with small children, changing tables are equipped in the restrooms. Travellers with reduced mobility are provided with assistance during boarding and disembarking, but this service must be booked in advance through your airline. The terminal itself is single-story, which simplifies movement within it.

There are no hotels on the airport grounds, but in the city of Andenes, which is just a couple of kilometres away, you will easily find suitable accommodation options — from guest houses to comfortable hotels.

Andenes Airport (ANX), being a small regional aviation hub, offers passengers basic but convenient snacking options. Do not expect food courts and restaurants here as in major international airports, but satisfying your hunger before departure or after arrival is quite possible.

As a rule, all catering services are concentrated in one small café or buffet, located in the main hall of the single terminal. Most often, it is situated in the public zone (landside), before security control, allowing both departing passengers and those seeing them off or meeting them to use its services.

The menu usually consists of a standard set for a quick snack. Here you will find:

• Hot drinks: coffee, tea, cocoa.
• Cold drinks: juices, water, carbonated drinks.
• Sandwiches and fresh pastries, for example, traditional Norwegian buns.
• For a more substantial option, you can look for hot dogs — a popular and simple snack in Norway.
• Various snacks: chocolate, crisps, bars.

Options for passengers with strict dietary needs, such as vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes, are practically non-existent. If you follow a specific diet, it is safer to bring food with you. Prices for food and drinks correspond to the average level for Norwegian airports, which may seem quite high.

The café's opening hours depend directly on the flight schedule: it is open during aircraft departure and arrival periods. Thus, the airport in Andenes is great for having a coffee and a sandwich, but for a full lunch or dinner, it is better to choose an establishment in the city.

Travelling through the Andenes Airport, located in a picturesque corner of Norway, can be a pleasant start or end to your adventure in the Vesterålen archipelago. To ensure everything goes smoothly, use our tips.

Arrival time at the airport. Andenes is a small regional airport, so there are no long queues here. We recommend arriving 1.5 hours before a domestic flight departure. This will be enough time to check in your luggage, pass security control, and reach the boarding gate without rushing.

Check-in and security control. Procedures at a small airport usually go quickly. To save time, check in for your flight online and save the boarding pass on your phone. Keep your passport or ID ready for inspection.

Seat selection. When flying from Andenes, try to get a window seat. Depending on the flight direction, you will see breathtaking views of fjords, mountains, and the endless ocean. This is an excellent opportunity to take a few farewell shots of the archipelago from a bird's-eye view.

Hand luggage. Standard rules apply here too: liquids up to 100 ml must be packed in a transparent bag. Sharp objects are prohibited. If you are travelling with hiking gear, such as trekking poles, check the carriage rules with your airline in advance — they will likely need to be checked in as luggage.

Connecting passengers. Direct international flights from Andenes are rare. Your connection will likely be in a larger airport, for example, in Oslo or Tromsø. Allow sufficient time for the connection to calmly transfer to the next flight, especially if you have to go through security control again.

Customs control. Since most flights from Andenes are within the Schengen area, there is no passport control. However, random customs checks are possible, so ensure you are not carrying goods exceeding established limits.

Saving time and money. Book flight tickets and car rental in advance, especially during the peak tourist season (summer). The choice of food and drinks at the airport may be limited, so bring a light snack and a water bottle that can be filled after passing security control.

In case of flight delay. Weather in northern Norway can be unpredictable and may cause delays. Ensure your phone is charged, and download movies or books. Save your airline's contact details. Check with carrier representatives regarding your rights to drinks, meals, or accommodation depending on the length of the delay.