Support

Valan Airport

About the Airport

Valan Airport. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars

Valan Airport (HVG) is more than just a transport hub; it is the true aerial gateway to the legendary North Cape. Located on the rocky coast of Norway, just a few kilometres from the city of Honningsvåg, it is the first to introduce travellers to the harsh and majestic beauty of the Arctic. Landing here, amidst fjords and cliffs, is an unforgettable beginning to the adventure in itself. This compact airport plays a key role in the life of the region, connecting it with the rest of the country.

IATA Code HVG
ICAO Code ENHV
City Honningsvåg
Distance to centre approx. 4 km
Status Domestic
Passengers per year approx. 25,000 (in 2023)
Popular Airlines Widerøe
Schedule Valan Airport Online Flight Board

The main feature of Valan Airport is its strategic location. It is only 31 kilometres from the famous North Cape, making it the primary arrival point for tourists from all over the world eager to witness the Midnight Sun or the Northern Lights. The airport is operated by the state-owned company Avinor and handles flights connecting Honningsvåg with Tromsø, from where convenient connections to Oslo and other cities are available. Despite its modest size and short runway, the terminal offers basic amenities, including car rental, and its compactness ensures a swift passage through all formalities.

It is important to note that due to the complex terrain and changeable Arctic weather conditions, landing at Valan requires special skill from pilots, and airport operations can be affected by strong winds. Nevertheless, this small but important airport is a fine example of how modern infrastructure is harmoniously integrated into the rugged and beautiful Arctic landscape.

Contact Information

Below is the main contact information for Valan Airport (HVG), serving the city of Honningsvåg. We recommend checking the accuracy of the data on official resources before your trip.

  • Official Website: avinor.no/honningsvag-airport
  • Information Desk Phone: +47 67 03 48 20
  • Address: Valan, 9750 Honningsvåg, Norway
  • Email: For most inquiries, it is recommended to use the feedback form on the official Avinor operator website.
  • Social Media: The airport is part of the national Avinor network. Follow news on the official Avinor social media pages.
  • Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact the baggage tracing service of the airline that operated the flight. At Honningsvåg Airport, ground handling is provided by Widerøe Ground Handling (+47 417 06 459).
  • Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions and support, you can use the main airport information desk phone number.

How to Get to the Airport

Valan Airport (Honningsvåg Valan Airport) is located just 4.5 kilometres from the centre of Honningsvåg, making the journey to the city quick and convenient. Depending on the chosen transport, the trip will take no more than 5-10 minutes. Below are the main ways to get from the airport to the city and back.

Public Transport. The most economical way is by bus. Local bus routes are usually synchronized with the schedule of arriving and departing flights. This is a convenient option, but it is strongly recommended to check the current schedule on the local transport operator's website in advance, as it may change depending on the season. There are no trains or metro services in this remote region of Norway.

Taxi and Transfer. A taxi represents a more comfortable and faster option. A taxi rank can be found at the terminal exit. Given the small size of the city and high demand during the tourist season, it is better to book a car in advance by phone. The cost of the trip, as elsewhere in Norway, will be quite high even for a short distance. Some hotels also offer transfer services for their guests, which is worth clarifying when booking accommodation.

Car Rental. For those planning to explore the island of Magerøya and visit the famous North Cape on their own, renting a car is the ideal solution. There are representatives of several rental companies at Valan Airport. A car gives freedom of movement and allows you to enjoy the stunning Arctic landscapes at your own pace. It is recommended to book a car online well in advance, especially for the summer months.

Parking. If you are travelling by private or rented car, convenient parking is available at the airport. It is located within walking distance of the terminal building and offers spaces for both short-term and long-term parking.

It is also worth noting that there are other small airports in the region that may be useful when planning a route through Northern Norway. Among them are Mehamn Airport (about 67 km), Hammerfest Airport (92 km), and Banak Airport (111 km).

Terminals and Map

Valan Airport (HVG), serving Honningsvåg and the North Cape region, is a small and compact aviation hub. Its structure is as simple and convenient as possible for passengers, making navigation intuitive even for those visiting for the first time.

The airport operates one passenger terminal, which handles both domestic and international flights, although the majority are local flights within Norway. Since there is only one terminal, you do not have to worry about transfers between buildings. All zones — check-in, security control, departure, and arrival — are located in one building a short distance from each other.

The terminal layout is extremely simple. Upon entering, you immediately find yourself in the common area where the check-in counters are located. After receiving a boarding pass and dropping off luggage, passengers pass through the single security control point, which leads to a small departure lounge. The arrival area is also located here, with a separate exit to the common area where meeting parties can wait for arriving passengers.

Thanks to the compact size of the airport, completing all pre-flight formalities usually takes very little time. Check-in and screening rarely take more than 20-30 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1-1.5 hours before departure, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid rushing. Getting lost in Valan Airport is practically impossible — follow the simple and clear signs, and you will easily find the zone you need.

Airport History

Valan Airport (HVG), serving the city of Honningsvåg, is one of the most important transport hubs in Northern Norway. Its history is closely linked to the need to ensure reliable year-round communication with the island of Magerøya, where the city is located. The airport was officially opened on 1 July 1973, along with several other small airports in the Finnmark region. Its construction was part of a government programme to develop infrastructure in remote areas of the country.

Since its opening, the airport has played a key role in the lives of the local population and the development of tourism, as it provides the fastest access to the famous North Cape. The main carrier throughout the airport's history has been and remains the airline Widerøe, using aircraft adapted for short runways. Initially, flights were operated on De Havilland Canada Twin Otter aircraft, which were later replaced by more modern Dash 8s.

There have been no significant expansions in the airport's history due to its specific location — it is wedged between mountains and the sea. However, the terminal and navigation equipment have been repeatedly modernized to meet modern safety standards and to ensure stable operation in harsh Arctic conditions. The installation of modern approach systems became a critically important stage, allowing for a reduction in the number of flight cancellations due to bad weather — a frequent occurrence at these latitudes.

Interesting fact: the runway at Valan Airport is only 880 metres long, making it one of the most demanding for pilot skill. Today, the airport continues to fulfill its main mission — to be a reliable connecting thread between one of the northernmost corners of Europe and the rest of the world, serving both local residents and thousands of tourists eager to see the Midnight Sun or the Northern Lights.

Services and Amenities

Valan Airport (HVG) is a compact regional airport that provides passengers with key amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its modest size, everything necessary for a short stay before departure is available here. Inside the terminal building, there is a small café where you can order hot and cold beverages, sandwiches, and light snacks. There is also a small shop selling souvenirs, press, and travel essentials.

For passengers wishing to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport. In the waiting hall, you can find power outlets for charging mobile phones and other gadgets. There are no specialized high-comfort lounges or VIP areas at Valan Airport, but the general waiting area is clean and comfortable.

The airport is adapted to serve passengers with reduced mobility — to receive assistance with boarding or disembarking, it is recommended to notify your airline in advance. For travellers with small children, there are changing tables in the restrooms. Specialized play areas for children are absent. There is no permanent medical centre in the airport building, but staff are trained in first aid.

It is important to note that there are no bank branches, ATMs, or currency exchange points at Valan Airport. All financial transactions should be completed in advance in the city of Honningsvåg. Business centre services or conference rooms are also not provided. The nearest hotels and guest houses are located in Honningsvåg, which is just a few minutes' drive from the airport.

Where to Eat

Valan Airport (HVG) is a small regional airport serving the northernmost districts of Norway. Due to its compact size, the choice of dining establishments here is limited but quite sufficient for a snack before departure or a cup of coffee while waiting for a flight.

The main and, as a rule, the only place where you can eat is a small café located in the general hall of the terminal. Here, passengers are offered hot and cold beverages, fresh pastries, sandwiches, and light snacks. It is a versatile place suitable for both a quick bite and a more relaxed wait with a cup of tea or coffee.

Although one should not expect a full restaurant menu, you can find something with local flair in the café. Pay attention to the sandwiches with Norwegian salmon or pastries with northern berries, such as cloudberries. This is an excellent opportunity to taste local flavours in a simple format. In general, the establishment is oriented towards quick and convenient dining options rather than long lunches.

Travellers with special dietary needs (vegetarians, vegans) should note that the selection may be extremely limited. It is recommended to carry suitable snacks with you. The café's opening hours are usually synchronized with the flight schedule — it opens shortly before the first flight and closes after the departure of the last one. Prices correspond to the average level for airports in Norway, so be prepared that a snack will not be cheap.

Travel Tips

Travelling through Valan Airport, serving the city of Honningsvåg and the famous North Cape, has its own specifics. Being a small regional airport, preparation for a flight here differs from the bustle of major hubs. Here are a few tips to make your trip more comfortable and predictable.

Arrival at the Airport and Check-in. Given the compact size of Valan Airport, you do not need to arrive many hours before departure. For domestic flights within Norway, arriving 1–1.5 hours before departure is sufficient. Check-in and security control processes here are quite fast. Nevertheless, it is always better to complete online check-in in advance to save time and select a convenient seat.

Seat Selection and Hand Luggage. Flights to this region are often operated on small aircraft, so window seats will offer you unforgettable views of the Arctic fjords and coastline. regarding hand luggage, the standards are the same: liquids in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. However, pay attention to the weight and size restrictions set by your airline, as overhead bin space in small liners is limited.

Connections and Customs Control. Valan Airport mainly serves domestic flights. If you have an international connection, it will likely be at a larger airport, such as Oslo or Tromsø. Allow enough time for the connection, especially if you have to go through passport and customs control when entering or leaving the Schengen Area. In Honningsvåg itself, customs formalities for domestic flights are minimal or non-existent.

Savings and Unforeseen Situations. To save money, book flight tickets in advance and consider using public transport or a shuttle to the city instead of a taxi. In case of a flight delay, which is not uncommon in the Arctic due to changeable weather, keep in mind that the airport's facilities are limited. The airline counter is your main source of information. Ensure your phone is charged and have a book or downloaded movies with you to pass the time. It is also useful to have travel insurance covering expenses in case of long delays.

Reached the end of the page?

That means the route is fully explored