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Stokka Airport

About the Airport

Stokka Airport. Source: Kupi.com Binoculars

Stokka Airport (SSJ) is not just a point on the map, but an aerial gateway to one of the most mesmerizing regions of Norway — the Helgeland coast. Located near the city of Sandnessjøen, this compact yet modern regional airport serves as a starting point for travellers dreaming of seeing the famous "Seven Sisters" mountain range and exploring the idyllic islands of the archipelago. Since opening in 1968, Stokka has become a key transport hub connecting this picturesque corner with the rest of the country.

IATA Code SSJ
ICAO Code ENST
City Sandnessjøen
Distance to centre About 11 km.
Status Domestic.
Annual Passengers 73,026 (2023).
Popular Airlines Widerøe.
Schedule Stokka Airport online flight status

Despite its modest size, Stokka Airport offers everything necessary for a comfortable start or end to your journey. Its main advantage is the thoughtful layout and speed of service. A single terminal for arrivals and departures makes orientation easy, and you can reach the city centre in just 10-15 minutes via a dedicated airport shuttle bus (flybuss), taxi, or rental car, with counters (Hertz, AVIS, Europcar) located directly inside the airport building.

One unique feature highlighting the tourism focus of this location is the Fly & Bike concept by Widerøe airlines. It allows travellers to book a bicycle in advance, which will be waiting for them immediately upon arrival. This is an ideal solution for those planning to actively explore the scenic coastal routes of Helgeland, which are perfectly equipped for cycling. Thus, Stokka Airport is not merely a transit point, but a platform perfectly integrated into the tourism infrastructure for launching unforgettable adventures.

Contact Information

Below you will find essential contact information for Stokka Airport (SSJ) in Sandnessjøen, which will assist you in planning your journey.

  • Official Website: The most up-to-date information about the airport, including flight schedules, available services, and passenger regulations, can be found on the airport's page on the Norwegian operator Avinor's website: avinor.no/flyplass/sandnessjoen.
  • Information Desk Phone: For general inquiries, you can contact the Avinor contact centre at +47 67 03 00 00.
  • Airport Address: Flyplassveien 10, 8805 Sandnessjøen, Norway.
  • Email: A direct email address for general inquiries is not published. It is recommended to use the contact forms on the official Avinor website for communication.
  • Social Media: News and important updates regarding the airport are typically published on the official social media pages of the operator, Avinor.
  • Lost Luggage Information: In case of lost or damaged baggage, you must first contact your airline's Lost and Found service directly at the airport or via the contacts provided on the carrier's website.
  • Passenger Support Contacts: For most issues related to airport services, support is provided via the telephone line and the official Avinor website.

How to Get to the Airport

Stokka Airport (SSJ) is located just a few kilometres from the city centre of Sandnessjøen, making it highly accessible for travellers. You can get to or from the airport using several convenient methods suitable for any budget and travel style. The journey from the city centre usually takes no more than 10-15 minutes.

Public Transport is the most economical option. Typically, a dedicated airport bus (Flybussen) runs between the airport and the city centre, with a schedule coordinated with flight arrivals and departures. This is an excellent choice for budget-conscious tourists and those travelling light. The fare is lower than a taxi, and tickets can be purchased directly from the driver or via a mobile app.

For maximum comfort, especially if you are travelling with children or a large amount of luggage, a taxi or transfer is the ideal choice. The taxi stand is located outside the arrivals terminal. The ride will be quick and comfortable, though it is the most expensive option. You can also pre-book a private transfer so that a driver meets you with a name sign.

If you plan to actively explore the picturesque Helgeland coast, the best solution is car rental. Offices of several rental companies usually operate at Stokka Airport. Having your own vehicle gives you complete freedom of movement along the famous Fv17 tourist route and allows you to easily reach the region's most beautiful and secluded spots.

For those arriving at the airport by private transport, parking is provided. There are zones for short-term parking for quick drop-offs or pick-ups, as well as parking spaces for long-term vehicle storage during your trip.

If you haven't found convenient flights to Sandnessjøen, consider flying into one of the neighbouring airports in Norway. Among the nearest options are Kjærstad Airport in Mosjøen, Brønnøysund Airport, and Mo i Rana Airport. From there, you can reach Sandnessjøen by rental car or intercity bus, enjoying stunning views along the way.

Terminals and Map

Stokka Airport (SSJ) is a small and modern regional airport characterized by its compactness and efficiency. You won't have to worry about complex maps or long walks, as there is only one passenger terminal serving both departing and arriving passengers.

The terminal structure is intuitive. Immediately at the entrance are the check-in counters, followed by a single security checkpoint. After passing control, you enter a small but cosy waiting hall with boarding gates. The departure and arrival zones are located in the same building, making navigation extremely simple. Since there are no multiple terminals, the issue of transferring between them is irrelevant.

The main advantage of Sandnessjøen Airport is the speed of completing all formalities. Unlike large international hubs, there are practically no long queues here. Check-in and security screening usually take no more than 15-20 minutes. Nevertheless, it is always recommended to arrive at the airport with some time to spare, especially if you are travelling with luggage.

Navigation at Stokka Airport will not cause any difficulties even for first-time visitors. All key areas — from check-in to boarding gates and baggage claim — are within walking distance of each other. Signs in Norwegian and English will help you orient yourself easily. Essentially, the entire path from the building entrance to boarding the aircraft is a straight and clear line.

Airport History

The history of Stokka Airport (SSJ) is inextricably linked to the development of aviation in the coastal regions of Norway. The airport was officially opened on 30 June 1968 and became one of the first four Short Take-Off and Landing (STOL) airports built as part of a pioneering government project. Its creation was a real breakthrough for the city of Sandnessjøen and the entire Helgeland region, significantly reducing travel time to other parts of the country and making travel more accessible.

Initially, the airport had a runway length of only 800 metres, and flights were operated by Widerøe using small Twin Otter aircraft. With the growth of passenger traffic and technological advancements, the airport was modernized several times. In 1987, the runway was extended to 1,080 metres, allowing for larger Dash 7 aircraft. The next major expansion occurred in 1995, when the runway reached 1,199 metres, opening the possibility for operating modern Dash 8 liners. In 1996, management of the airport transferred from the municipality to the state-owned company Avinor.

One of the key stages in the airport's recent history was the large-scale reconstruction in 2011. During the modernization, a new, contemporary terminal was built, significantly increasing the level of comfort for passengers and improving the overall infrastructure. This allowed Stokka Airport to meet modern standards and effectively serve both local residents and the growing number of tourists coming to admire the beauty of the Helgeland coast.

Interesting fact: Stokka Airport and three other initial STOL airports became a pilot project, the success of which determined the creation of an entire network of similar aviation hubs throughout the country. This initiative fundamentally changed transport accessibility for remote areas and played an important role in their economic and social development. Today, the airport in Sandnessjøen is not just a transport hub, but a symbol of the successful integration of modern technologies into life in rural Norway.

Services and Amenities

Stokka Airport (SSJ), serving the city of Sandnessjøen in Norway, offers passengers a basic set of services for a comfortable wait before their flight. The terminal features a small café where you can have a snack, coffee, or other beverages, as well as a kiosk with newspapers and travel goods. The selection of establishments and shops corresponds to the size of the airport, which is oriented towards regional transport.

For the convenience of travellers, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay connected. Charging stations for electronic devices are also provided. Regarding financial services, there is an ATM at the airport, but full bank branches and currency exchange points are absent, so it is worth arranging this in advance.

The airport is adapted to the needs of various categories of passengers. Changing tables are equipped for travellers with children. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with assistance in moving through the terminal and boarding. To use this service, you must notify your airline in advance. Specialized VIP halls or business lounges are not provided at the airport, nor are separate medical points.

Hotels for accommodation are not located on the airport territory but in the nearby city of Sandnessjøen, which is easily accessible by taxi or bus. Due to its regional status, Stokka Airport also does not have its own conference rooms or business centres.

Dining

Stokka Airport (SSJ) in Sandnessjøen is a compact regional hub, so all dining options here are concentrated in one place. Do not expect a variety of restaurants as seen in major hubs, but finding a place to comfortably wait for a flight with a cup of coffee or a hearty snack is certainly possible.

The main establishment at the airport is a cosy café located in the main hall of the terminal, in the public zone (landside), before passing security control. This makes it convenient for both departing passengers and those meeting them. Here you can find everything needed for a quick snack or a more substantial lunch: from fresh pastries, sandwiches, and salads to hot dishes, such as the soup of the day.

To experience local cuisine, look for seafood dishes for which Norway is famous. A classic choice is a sandwich with cured salmon (laks), which allows you to taste the region even during a short stop. Regarding special dietary requests, the selection may be limited. Typically, there are vegetarian sandwich or salad options available. Finding gluten-free or vegan options is more difficult, but sometimes packaged snacks are available for sale — it is worth checking the labels carefully. Specialized Halal meals are generally not available.

The café is ideal for a quick coffee before departure or a full lunch. The establishment's opening hours depend directly on the flight schedule: it opens well in advance of the first departure and operates until the last plane leaves. Please note that prices correspond to the general Norwegian level, which is noticeably higher than the European average.

Travel Tips

Travelling through Stokka Airport in Sandnessjøen is typically a calm and quick process due to its compact size. To avoid unnecessary haste, we recommend arriving at the airport approximately 1.5–2 hours before the departure of a domestic flight. This time is sufficient to check in luggage and pass security control without stress. To save time, check in online and save your boarding pass on your smartphone. The screening procedure here is standard: be prepared to remove liquids (in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag) and large electronic devices from your hand luggage.

When choosing a seat on the plane departing from this part of Norway, it is worth preferring a window seat. The likelihood of seeing breathtaking landscapes of fjords and mountains from a bird's-eye view is very high. Regarding hand luggage, carefully study your airline's rules regarding weight and dimensions. Standard prohibitions apply to sharp objects, flammable substances, and liquids in containers larger than 100 ml. It is better to pack such items in checked luggage.

If you have a connecting flight, clarify at check-in whether your luggage will be automatically forwarded to the final destination. Sandnessjøen is a small airport, so most connections take place in major hubs such as Oslo or Bodø. Allow enough time for the transfer. When entering the country, remember that Norway is part of the Schengen Area but is not a member of the EU, so specific customs rules apply. If you have nothing to declare, proceed through the "green channel." Current regulations regarding duty-free allowances and currency should be checked in advance on the official Norwegian Customs website.

To save money, book flight tickets and airport transfers in advance. Bring an empty water bottle, which can be filled after passing security control, and light snacks — the choice of cafés and shops in a small airport may be limited, and prices high. This is a simple way to reduce unforeseen expenses on the road.

In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative at the counter in the airport. Depending on the length of the wait, you may be offered vouchers for food, drinks, or even hotel accommodation. Be sure to keep all receipts for expenses incurred due to the delay for potential subsequent compensation. Use the free Wi-Fi at the airport to monitor flight status and stay in touch with loved ones.

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