Leknes Airport

Leknes Airport is not merely a runway, but a true gateway to the heart of the magical Lofoten Islands. Located in the picturesque municipality of Vestvågøy, this compact regional airport serves as the starting point for thousands of travellers eager to witness the famous Norwegian fjords, mountains, and fishing villages. Its proximity to key points of the archipelago and the incredible views revealed upon landing make it the perfect beginning for an unforgettable adventure in the north of Norway.

The main advantage of Leknes Airport is its strategic location. It is situated just one kilometre from the centre of Leknes city, allowing for quick access to hotels via taxi or rental car, with rental desks available directly in the terminal. Despite its modest size, the airport efficiently handles the flow of tourists, offering passengers everything necessary for a comfortable start or end to their journey.

The airport is primarily served by the regional airline Widerøe, which operates flights using Dash 8 turboprop aircraft, connecting Leknes with major hub airports such as Bodø. This ensures convenient connections to flights for Oslo and other cities in Norway. The compactness of the terminal means that flight check-in and security screening take minimal time, allowing you to enjoy the stunning views of the Lofoten Islands for longer.

Below you will find essential contact information for Leknes Airport (LKN), which is operated by the state-owned company Avinor. Please note that many services are centralised through the Avinor head office.

• Official Website: Up-to-date information on flights, services, and regulations can be found on the official airport page on the Avinor website: avinor.no/en/airport/leknes-airport/ (site available in Norwegian and English).
• Help Desk Phone: +47 67 03 00 00. This is a unified contact centre for all airports managed by Avinor.
• Airport Address: Leknes lufthavn, 8370 Leknes, Norway.
• Email: To contact airport representatives, it is recommended to use the feedback form on the official Avinor website, as a separate email for small regional airports is generally not provided.
• Social Media: Leknes Airport does not have its own social media accounts. News can be followed on the official pages of Avinor.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you must primarily contact your airline representative. Airport staff can advise you on whom to approach.
• Passenger Support Contacts: All issues related to passenger service are resolved through the unified Avinor call centre or via the online form on the website.

Getting to Leknes Airport (LKN) from the city of Leknes is effortless, as it is located just a couple of kilometres from the centre. This makes it one of the most accessible airports in Norway for travellers exploring the Lofoten Islands. Depending on your budget and preferences, you can choose one of several convenient methods.

Public Transport is the most budget-friendly option. Buses are the main form of public transport in Lofoten and connect the airport with the centre of Leknes and other key settlements in the region. A bus ride to the city centre will take about 10-15 minutes, and the ticket price is usually 40–60 Norwegian Krone (NOK). Be sure to check the current schedule on local transport websites (e.g., Reis Nordland), as the frequency of trips may change depending on the season.

Taxi or Pre-booked Transfer is the fastest and most comfortable method. The journey from the centre of Leknes to the terminal will take just 5-10 minutes. This is the ideal choice if you have a lot of luggage, are travelling with family, or are arriving late in the evening. The cost will be significantly higher than the bus, estimated at around 200–300 NOK, but you get the convenience of "door-to-door" travel. It is recommended to book a taxi in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.

Car Rental is an extremely popular and practical option for those planning to actively explore the Lofoten Islands. Many major and local rental companies have desks right at the airport or offer car delivery for your flight. By renting a car, you gain complete freedom of movement and can create your own routes along the archipelago's scenic roads. This is the best way to see all the hidden gems of the region at your own pace.

For those arriving at the airport in their own or a rented vehicle, parking is available. There are both short-term and long-term parking spaces at the terminal. Rates vary, but the estimated cost for long-term parking is about 150–250 NOK per day. This is convenient if you are flying out for a few days or meeting someone. Given the small size of the airport, finding parking and getting to the terminal entrance takes just a couple of minutes.

Leknes Airport (LKN) is a typical example of a compact regional airport in Norway, making it incredibly simple to navigate. Here, travellers will find just one small terminal, which handles both domestic and rare international charter flights. Getting lost inside is practically impossible.

All airport infrastructure is located in a single building on one level. Immediately upon entering, you find yourself in the general area where the check-in counters for several airlines are located. After checking in and dropping off luggage, you proceed directly to the security checkpoint, which is just a few steps away. Departure and arrival zones are located next to each other, but passenger flows are cleverly separated. After passing security, you will find yourself in a small but cosy waiting hall with a boarding gate.

Since there is only one terminal, the issue of transfers between them is irrelevant. The entire journey from the airport entrance to the boarding gate will take you no more than 5-10 minutes on foot. Check-in and screening procedures also proceed very quickly thanks to the low passenger volume. It is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1-1.5 hours before departure — this time will be more than sufficient to complete all formalities without rushing.

The history of Leknes Airport (LKN) is inextricably linked to the development of transport infrastructure in Norway and the desire to make remote regions more accessible. The airport was officially opened in 1972 and became one of many regional airfields built as part of the state programme to create a network of short runways (kortbanenettet). Its appearance was a real breakthrough for the residents of the Lofoten Islands, significantly reducing travel time to the mainland and other parts of the country.

Since its founding, the airport has been served primarily by the airline Widerøe, which continues to operate the majority of flights to this day. Initially, the infrastructure was quite modest and designed for small propeller aircraft, ideally suited for short runways. The main task of the airport was to ensure reliable communication for the local population, as well as the delivery of mail and cargo.

A key stage in the airport's development was its modernisation in the late 1990s. In 1998, a new modern terminal was opened here, and the runway surface and navigation equipment were updated. These improvements significantly increased comfort and safety for passengers. The subsequent lengthening of the runway, which occurred at a later stage, allowed for the reception of larger aircraft, which in turn contributed to a sharp increase in tourist flow to the Lofoten Islands.

One of the most interesting facts about Leknes Airport is its scenic location. It is surrounded by mountains and fjords, making landing and take-off some of the most beautiful in the world, yet also technically challenging for pilots, especially in changeable weather. Today, the airport does not break records for passenger numbers on a national scale, but its main achievement is its stable and reliable operation as a vital artery connecting one of the most stunning corners of the planet with the rest of the world.

Leknes Airport (LKN) is a small but important transport hub for those travelling around the Lofoten Islands in Norway. Despite its compact size, it offers a basic set of services for a comfortable wait for your flight.

In the airport terminal, you will find a small café where you can have a snack, drink coffee, or purchase light refreshments and beverages before departure. The selection here is not as extensive as in major airports, but quite sufficient for a quick bite. There are no Duty Free shops at the airport, but locally made products can be found in the souvenir area.

A general waiting hall is equipped for passengers. There are no separate VIP lounges provided here. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and power outlets for charging electronic devices can be found in the waiting area. There are no bank branches or currency exchange points in the airport building, however, there is usually an ATM for cash withdrawals.

Leknes Airport is adapted to serve all categories of passengers. For travellers with children, there are changing tables in the restrooms. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with necessary assistance during boarding and disembarking. It is recommended to notify the airline in advance regarding the need for assistance. First aid can be provided by airport staff.

There are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, however, many accommodation options — from hotels to cosy guest houses — are located in the city of Leknes itself, just a few minutes away by taxi. Specialised business centres or conference rooms are absent at the airport.

Leknes Airport (LKN) is a compact regional aviation hub, so the choice of dining establishments here corresponds to its size. Do not expect a wide variety of restaurants, as found in large international airports. All infrastructure for passengers is concentrated in one small terminal, where one cosy café usually operates, serving all flights.

In the local café, travellers can have a quick snack before departure or upon arrival. The assortment typically includes fresh pastries, sandwiches, and possibly traditional Norwegian waffles (`vaffel`), which are often served with sour cream and jam. This is a great opportunity to try something local while waiting for the plane. Of course, you can always order coffee, tea, and other hot or cold beverages here — an ideal option for those wanting to satisfy a light hunger.

If you are counting on a full hot meal of several courses, keep in mind that opportunities for this at Leknes Airport will most likely be unavailable. The choice is usually limited to the aforementioned sandwiches and snacks. Passengers with strict dietary requirements (vegan, gluten-free, or Halal) are strongly advised to bring food with them, as specialised dishes are unlikely to be found on the menu. Prices correspond to the general level in Norway and may seem high.

The sole café is located in the main hall of the terminal, making it easy to find. It is situated in the public area (landside), so it can be used by both departing passengers and those meeting them. Its opening hours depend directly on the flight schedule — it opens to serve passengers of the first morning departures and closes after the last plane of the day has left.

To ensure your journey through the airport of Leknes goes as smoothly as possible, take advantage of our tips. This is a small regional airport in Norway, so many procedures here are faster than in major hubs, but preparation is never superfluous.

Arrival Time and Check-in. Despite the compact size of the airport, we recommend arriving 1.5-2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight. This time is enough to drop off luggage and pass security control without rushing, especially during the peak tourist season. To save time, use online check-in, which is offered by most airlines.

Choosing a Seat on the Plane. Flights from Leknes and over the Lofoten Islands are famous for incredible views. Be sure to try to book a window seat. Snow-capped peaks, emerald valleys, and fjords extending into the ocean — these landscapes will be one of the most vivid impressions of the trip.

Hand Luggage and Security Control. The rules are standard: liquids in containers up to 100 ml must be packed in a transparent bag, and all sharp objects must be checked in as luggage. Electronics, such as laptops and power banks, usually need to be removed from bags. The screening procedure is generally quick due to the low passenger volume.

Connecting Passengers and Customs. Leknes Airport mainly serves direct domestic flights (for example, to Bodø or Oslo). If you have a transfer planned in another Norwegian city, ensure you have allowed enough time between flights at the connecting airport. There is no customs control when departing from Leknes on domestic flights.

Saving Time and Money. Book flight tickets and car rentals in advance, especially if travelling in summer. Infrastructure at the airport is minimal, so it is better to bring a water bottle (it can be filled after screening) and a light snack, as the choice of cafés and shops may be limited.

What to Do in Case of Flight Delay. The weather in the Lofoten Islands can be unpredictable and may cause delays. Monitor the status of your flight via the airline's app or on the displays at the airport. in the event of a long delay or cancellation, contact an airline representative to learn about your rights to compensation, meals, or accommodation.