Kristiansand Airport

Kristiansand Airport, Kjevik (KRS) is the main air gateway to the Sørlandet region, often referred to as the "Norwegian Riviera." Located northeast of the city, it is one of the key international airports in southern Norway. This modern and compact aviation hub plays a vital role in the region's transport system, connecting it to both the country's major cities and important European hubs. Every year, the airport serves hundreds of thousands of travelers eager to discover the picturesque coastline and charming towns of the southern part of the country.

Despite its modest size, Kristiansand Airport is distinguished by its well-thought-out infrastructure and passenger convenience. The terminal was expanded in 2015, which allowed for an increase in the Duty Free area and the number of boarding gates. Thanks to this, navigation through the airport is simple, and waiting for a flight takes place in a comfortable environment. Travelers have access to all necessary services: from cafes and shops to car rental desks and free Wi-Fi. Excellent transport connections, including express buses to the centre of Kristiansand and neighbouring towns, make it a convenient starting point for exploring the entire southern coast.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Kristiansand Airport (KRS), located in Norway. The airport operator is Avinor.

• Official Website: You will find the most up-to-date information on flights, services, and rules on the official airport page on the Avinor website: avinor.no/en/airport/kristiansand-airport.
• Information Service Phone: For general inquiries, you can contact the Avinor contact centre at: +47 67 03 00 00.
• Airport Address: Kjevikveien 300, 4657 Kjevik, Norway.
• Email: A direct email address for general inquiries is usually not provided. It is recommended to use the contact form on the official website to communicate with airport services.
• Social Media: News and important updates are published on the official social media pages of the operator, Avinor.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage was lost during the flight, you should contact your airline directly. If you have lost personal belongings within the terminal, please use the "Lost and Found" (Hittegods) service on the Avinor website.
• Passenger Support Service: Support is provided via the telephone line and online forms on the official airport website.

You can get to Kristiansand Airport (KRS) from the city centre of Kristiansand in several convenient ways. The choice of the best option depends on your budget, amount of luggage, and time preferences.

Public Transport is the most economical method. Regular bus routes connect the city centre with the airport. A trip on a city bus usually takes about 25-30 minutes. Additionally, there are express buses (Flybussen), the schedule of which is often coordinated with flight arrivals and departures. This is slightly more expensive but faster and more comfortable than regular city transport.

Taxi or Transfer is the ideal option for those who value comfort and travel with heavy luggage. A taxi ride from the city centre to the airport will take just 15-20 minutes, making it the fastest method. The cost will be significantly higher than the bus. For greater convenience and a fixed price, you can book a private transfer in advance.

Car Rental offers maximum freedom of movement, especially if you plan to explore the picturesque surroundings of Norway. Several major rental company offices operate at Kristiansand Airport. It is recommended to book a car in advance, especially during the tourist season. The road from the city centre is simple and well-marked.

For those driving to the airport in their own or a rented car, parking is provided. There are both short-term and long-term parking zones on the premises. The cost depends on the duration of parking. It is best to check current rates and online booking availability on the official airport website.

Kristiansand Airport (KRS), serving the southern part of Norway, is a modern and compact aviation hub. Its structure is designed for maximum passenger convenience, making orientation intuitively clear even for those visiting for the first time.

The airport consists of one passenger terminal, which serves both domestic and international flights. Due to its small size, it is practically impossible to get lost here. All key areas—check-in counters, security checkpoints, boarding gates, and the baggage claim area—are within walking distance of each other.

The terminal layout is very simple. The ground floor houses the arrivals hall with baggage claim belts and customs control, as well as the flight check-in area. After check-in, passengers proceed to the second floor, where the single security checkpoint leading to the secure area is located. Here you will also find the boarding gates, Duty-Free shops, cafes, and rest areas.

Completing all pre-flight formalities at Kristiansand Airport usually takes little time. On average, check-in and security checks take from 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the traffic. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance: 1.5-2 hours before international flights and approximately 1 hour before domestic flights to avoid rushing.

Main navigation tip: simply follow the signs. Signs are in Norwegian and English and are clearly visible. The compactness of the terminal is its main advantage, so moving between zones will not cause any difficulties. You can walk from the airport entrance to the boarding gate in just a few minutes.

The history of Kristiansand Airport (KRS), also known as Kjevik, is closely intertwined with key events in the history of Norway. Officially opened on June 1, 1939, it became one of the first land-based airports in the country, built shortly before the outbreak of World War II. Its creation was an important step in the development of civil aviation in the region.

The peaceful operation of the airport was short-lived. On April 9, 1940, the day of the German invasion of Norway, Kjevik Airport was seized by German troops and became one of the first strategic points they occupied. Throughout the war, it was used as an important Luftwaffe airbase, highlighting its advantageous geographical location.

After the war ended, the airport returned to civilian use and began to gradually develop as a key transport hub for Southern Norway. In the post-war years, regular connections with Oslo were established, followed by the first international routes, mainly to neighbouring Denmark. SAS (Scandinavian Airlines) became one of the first major carriers to operate regular flights from Kristiansand.

Significant modernization stages occurred in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. In 1994, a new, more spacious and modern passenger terminal was put into operation, replacing the old building. In the 2010s, the airport underwent another series of renovations, including terminal expansion and runway upgrades, to meet growing passenger demand and accommodate larger aircraft.

Today, Kristiansand Airport serves as an vital air gateway to the Sørlandet region, serving both domestic and international destinations. Its history is a journey from a small airfield built at the dawn of the aviation era to a modern infrastructure facility playing a key role in the country's transport system.

Kristiansand Airport (KRS) is a modern and convenient transport hub in southern Norway, offering passengers a full range of services for a comfortable journey. Before departure or after arrival, you can have a snack in one of the cafes or dine in a restaurant serving local and international dishes. For those flying out of the country, a Duty Free shop is open with a wide assortment of perfumes, cosmetics, beverages, and sweets.

Comfortable lounges are equipped in the terminal for waiting for flights. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and numerous charging stations for gadgets will allow you to stay connected at all times. For business travellers or those who need to work in a quiet environment, the airport offers conference rooms and business services that can be booked in advance.

ATMs for cash withdrawal and currency exchange points are located in the airport building, which is very convenient for international tourists. In case of need, first aid is available at the airport. All key services operate to ensure your stay here is as safe and predictable as possible.

The airport is well-equipped for travellers with children: there are mother and child rooms with changing tables and play areas. Special attention is paid to passengers with reduced mobility. Ramps, special restrooms, and elevators are provided for them. You can book an assistance service in advance through your airline to receive the necessary help upon arrival at the airport and during boarding.

If you have an early departure or a long layover, several hotels offering comfortable accommodation are located in the immediate vicinity of the airport. The availability of business services and conference rooms makes Kristiansand Airport a convenient point not only for tourists but also for business travellers.

At Kristiansand Airport (KRS), despite its compact size, passengers can find several convenient options for a snack or a full meal. Food outlets are located both in the public area before security control and in the secure departure zone.

In the public area (before security), a deli shop usually operates, which is ideal for those seeing off or meeting passengers, as well as for travellers wishing to have a quick snack before check-in. Here you can buy fresh pastries, sandwiches, hot snacks, salads, as well as hot and cold drinks. This is a great option for grabbing something to go.

In the departure zone (after security), the main food court or cafe is located. The selection here is wider and suitable for those who have time before boarding their flight. The menu usually features both light snacks (sandwiches, yoghurts, pastries) and more substantial hot dishes, such as pizza, burgers, or soups. There is also a counter offering a selection of various beverages.

When travelling through Norway, it is worth paying attention to local specialties. In the airport cafe, look for sandwiches with smoked salmon (laks) or shrimps (reker) — this is a classic Norwegian snack and a great seafood option. Regarding special dietary needs, vegetarian sandwiches or salads can always be found in the assortment. For information on gluten-free or vegan options, it is best to ask the cafe staff directly.

Recommendations and prices:

• For a quick snack, the food outlet in the public area or ready-made sandwiches in the departure zone are best.
• For a full lunch or dinner, head to the cafe after passing through security.

Prices for food and drinks correspond to the average level in Norway, which may seem high for tourists from other countries. Opening hours of establishments are generally tied to the flight schedule: they open with the first departures and close after the departure of the last aircraft.

Travelling through Kristiansand Airport (KRS) usually goes smoothly and without unnecessary hassle, but a few tips will help make your experience even more comfortable. It is a compact and modern airport serving the southern part of Norway, so navigating it will not be difficult.

Arrival and Check-in: It is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 1.5-2 hours before departure, especially for international flights. To save time, complete online check-in on your airline's website, and if you are travelling with hand luggage only, you can head straight to the security checkpoint. If you have luggage, drop it off at the special counter (bag drop).

Security and Hand Luggage: The screening procedure is standard. Remember the restrictions on carrying liquids: all containers must be no more than 100 ml in volume and packed in one transparent plastic bag. Laptops and other large electronics must be removed from your bag. Do not take sharp objects or other prohibited items with you to avoid delays.

Customs Control and Transfers: Although Norway is part of the Schengen Area (meaning no passport control on flights from member countries), it is not a member of the EU Customs Union. This means there are strict rules on importing certain beverages, tobacco, and specific food products. If you have a layover in Kristiansand, check in advance if you need to collect and re-check your luggage.

Savings and Useful Tricks: Prices in Norwegian airports are quite high. To save money, bring an empty water bottle with you and fill it after passing security. You can also bring light snacks. When choosing a seat on the plane, if you want to enjoy views of the picturesque coast, book a window seat. An aisle seat is more convenient if you need to get up during the flight.

In Case of Flight Delay: If your flight is delayed, follow the information on the departure boards and in the airline's app. The airport has several cafes and free Wi-Fi. In the event of a long delay or cancellation, contact your airline representative to learn about your rights to compensation, meals, or hotel accommodation.