Bodo Airport

Bodø Airport is more than just a transport hub; it is a true aerial gateway to the world of Arctic adventures in Northern Norway. Located on a picturesque peninsula in the immediate vicinity of the city, it welcomes travellers with breathtaking views of the sea and mountains right during landing. This airport is a key point for those heading to the famous Lofoten Islands, the Vesterålen archipelago, or planning to see the world's most powerful tidal current, Saltstraumen. Despite its relatively small size, it plays a vital role in the region's transport system.

The main advantage of Bodø Airport is its unique location. It is situated so close to the city centre that you can reach it not only by bus or taxi but even on foot, which is a rarity for airports. It is a modern and compact terminal that serves as an important transfer hub for regional flights operated by Widerøe. The airport shares its runway with a military airbase, adding to its uniqueness. Travellers will find all necessary services here: from cafes and shops to car rental points, making the wait for a flight or the start of a journey through the north of the country as comfortable as possible.

For the most up-to-date information regarding the operation of Bodø Airport, flight schedules, and services, it is recommended to contact official channels. Below are the primary contact details.

• Official Website: avinor.no/flyplass/bodo
• Information Desk Phone: +47 67 03 35 00
• Address: Olav V gate, 8004 Bodø, Norway
• Email: For most enquiries, Avinor (the airport operator) suggests using the dedicated contact forms on their official website.
• Social Media: You can follow news and updates on the official pages of the operator Avinor on social networks (e.g., Facebook).
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of lost or damaged luggage, you must first contact your airline's representative at the airport. Contact details are usually available at check-in counters or on the carrier's website.
• Passenger Support Service: For general questions and assistance at the airport, you can call the main information desk number.

Getting to the airport in Bodø is surprisingly simple, as it is one of the closest airports to a city centre in Norway. The distance is only about 2 kilometres, opening up several convenient options for travellers.

Public Transport. The most economical way is to use city buses. Routes No. 1 and No. 4 run between the city centre (Sentrumsterminalen) and the airport at short intervals. The journey takes just 5-10 minutes and is an excellent choice for those wishing to save money. Tickets can be purchased at machines, kiosks, or via a mobile app.

Taxi or Transfer. For maximum comfort, especially if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling with family, you can order a taxi. The rank is located right outside the terminal exit. The ride to the centre will be very quick, about 5 minutes, but will cost significantly more compared to the bus. You can also book a private transfer in advance.

Car Rental and Parking. If you plan to explore the picturesque surroundings, for example, take a trip along the famous Kystriksveien coastal road or to the Lofoten Islands, renting a car is the best solution. All major car rental companies have offices at the airport. For those arriving in their own vehicle, there are zones for short-term and long-term parking on the airport territory, though service costs can be quite high.

On Foot. A unique feature of Bodø Airport is its accessibility on foot. If you are travelling light and the weather permits, a walk from the city centre to the terminal takes only 20-30 minutes. This is not only free but also allows you to enjoy the fresh northern air before your flight.

Bodø Airport (BOO) is a modern and compact aviation hub distinguished by a structure that is simple and clear for passengers. The airport operates one passenger terminal serving both domestic and international flights. Thanks to its small size, navigating through it causes no difficulties even for those here for the first time.

The terminal layout is logical and intuitive. Arrival and departure zones are located in the same building, eliminating the need for long transfers or shuttles. Check-in counters and the baggage drop area are on the ground floor, immediately at the entrance. After check-in, passengers proceed to the first floor, where the security control zone and boarding gates are located. The arrival zone is also on the ground floor, with separate exits to the public area and baggage claim points.

Completing all pre-flight formalities at Bodø Airport usually takes little time. On average, check-in and security screening take from 20 to 40 minutes. However, during peak hours or the height of the tourist season, waiting times may increase, so it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance — approximately 1.5-2 hours before your flight departure.

To navigate the terminal, simply follow the clear signs in Norwegian and English. All key areas — from check-in counters to boarding gates and baggage claim — are within a few minutes' walk of each other. Thanks to its compactness and thoughtful layout, Bodø Airport leaves a pleasant impression and allows you to start or end your journey through northern Norway without unnecessary stress.

The history of Bodø Airport (BOO) is closely intertwined with key events of the 20th century. Its construction began in 1940 by British troops during World War II, but after the occupation of Norway, the airfield was completed and used by the German Air Force. After the war, it was converted for civil needs, and the first civil terminal opened in 1952, marking the beginning of regular air service to the region.

During the Cold War years, Bodø Airport played a dual role: it was not only an important civil hub but also one of the key NATO airbases in Northern Europe. It gained worldwide fame in 1960 in connection with the incident involving the American U-2 reconnaissance aircraft piloted by Francis Gary Powers, which was heading here after its espionage flight over the USSR. This episode permanently inscribed the airport into the annals of world history.

With the growth of passenger traffic, the airport has been modernized repeatedly. A significant milestone was the opening of a new, modern terminal in 1990, which serves passengers to this day. For decades, the airport was home to F-16 fighters of the Royal Norwegian Air Force until the military airbase was officially closed in 2022.

Today, Bodø Airport is entering a new era. A decision has been made to build a completely new airport approximately one kilometre south of the current location. This ambitious project, scheduled for completion by 2029, will free up valuable land in the city centre for development and will mark a new chapter in Bodø's aviation history, providing the region with an ultra-modern aerial gateway.

Bodø Airport (BOO), despite its compact size, offers passengers a full range of services necessary for a comfortable journey. Conditions here are designed to ensure that waiting for a flight is pleasant and hassle-free.

At the airport, you will find several cafes and eateries where you can have a full meal or simply enjoy a cup of coffee with fresh pastries. For those wishing to shop, a Duty-Free store operates with a classic assortment of perfumes, cosmetics, confectionery, and other goods. You can also purchase traditional Norwegian souvenirs here. The terminal also features a bookstore with press and travel essentials.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, allowing passengers to stay connected or work. Special zones are provided for charging gadgets. For travellers preferring to wait for their flight in a quieter atmosphere, a VIP lounge is open, offering snacks, beverages, and comfortable seating.

Financial services at the airport are represented by ATMs. Please note that it is better to exchange currency in the city beforehand, as there may not be a specialised exchange bureau within the terminal. If necessary, passengers can receive first aid.

The airport is well-equipped for passengers with special needs. For travellers with children, there are nursery rooms with changing tables. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with special assistance, which is recommended to be requested in advance through the airline. This includes escort through the terminal and assistance with boarding and disembarking.

Although there are no hotels within the airport territory itself, many hotels to suit all tastes are located just a few minutes' drive away in Bodø city centre. For business travellers, the airport offers conference room services that can be rented for meetings and negotiations.

At Bodø Airport (BOO), passengers will find several convenient options for a snack or a full meal, although the selection, as in most regional airports, is concentrated in the main departure area after security control. Whether you are looking for a quick coffee before your flight or want to relax with a hearty dinner, there are venues here to suit various tastes.

Most cafes and restaurants are located in the departure zone (airside). For a full lunch or dinner, the sports restaurant O'Learys is an excellent choice, serving classic American dishes: burgers, ribs, and wings. It is an ideal place to pass the time while waiting for a flight while watching sports broadcasts. Nearby is the Food Factory — a venue with a food court concept offering a more diverse menu, including hot dishes, fresh salads, and sandwiches. If you need a quick snack, visit Caffè Ritazza, where you can get excellent coffee, pastries, and light bites.

In the public zone (landside), in the arrival hall, the Point kiosk is in operation. This is a great option for those meeting passengers or for those wanting to buy something immediately upon arrival. Here you can find beverages, sandwiches, sweets, and famous Norwegian hot dogs (pølse). Although most offers at the airport are international, at Food Factory you can sometimes find dishes with local flair, such as Norwegian salmon.

Regarding special dietary needs, vegetarian and gluten-free options can be found in most establishments — usually salads, as well as the possibility to order a sandwich with special bread. Vegan and halal dishes may be more difficult to find, so it is best to clarify ingredients with the staff on-site. Prices at the airport correspond to the general price level in Norway — they are quite high. Be prepared to pay more for a cup of coffee and a sandwich than the European average. Opening hours of establishments are generally tied to the flight schedule: they open with the first departures and close after the last aircraft leaves.

To ensure your journey through Bodø Airport goes as smoothly as possible, make use of our tips. Although it is a relatively small and convenient airport, proper preparation will help avoid stress and save time. We recommend arriving at the airport 1.5–2 hours before domestic flights and 2–3 hours before international ones to clear all procedures calmly.

To save time, use online check-in, which is offered by most airlines. Self-service kiosks are also available at the airport. The security checkpoint usually operates quickly, but queues are possible during peak hours. Prepare your boarding pass and documents in advance, and remove laptops and liquids from your hand luggage.

When choosing a seat on the plane, consider that Norway is famous for its landscapes. If you want to enjoy breathtaking views of the fjords and coast during takeoff or landing, choose a window seat. An aisle seat will provide more legroom and allow you to exit the aircraft faster upon arrival.

Rules for carrying hand luggage are standard: liquids are permitted in containers of no more than 100 ml each, packed in a single transparent bag. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited. Always check the exact norms and rules of your airline, as they may differ slightly.

Passengers with transfers in Bodø will find it easy to orient themselves thanks to the compact terminal. Study your ticket carefully: when transferring from an international flight to a domestic one, you may need to go through security control again and re-check your luggage. Ensure you have enough time between flights.

Customs control for passengers arriving from Schengen countries usually amounts to random checks. However, when entering from non-Schengen countries, you will have to go through full passport and customs control. If you are carrying goods subject to declaration, be sure to use the "Red Channel".

To save money, use public transport for the trip to the city — it is significantly cheaper than a taxi. Inside the airport, prices for food and drinks are quite high, so you can bring an empty water bottle and fill it after passing security. Booking parking online in advance will also help reduce costs.

In case of a flight delay, remain calm. First, contact your airline representative for information on the flight status and possible compensation (e.g., meal vouchers). Bodø Airport has free Wi-Fi, cafes, and shops to help pass the waiting time.