Sorkjosen Airport

Sørkjosen Airport (Sørkjosen) is a compact air gateway to the amazing world of northern Norway, located in the municipality of Nordreisa. Despite its modest size, this airport plays a key role in the transport system of the Troms region, serving as a starting point for journeys to majestic fjords, mountains, and the mesmerising Northern Lights. Opened in 1974, it provides reliable connections for locals and tourists wishing to explore the Arctic nature. It is an ideal place to begin an adventure in the lands of the Sámi people and experience the untouched beauty of Scandinavia.

The main advantage of Sørkjosen Airport is its compactness and convenient location. Passengers appreciate the quick completion of all formalities, which is especially valuable when travelling. The airport is operated by the state-owned company Avinor, guaranteeing high standards of safety and service. Although flights mainly operate to Tromsø from here, this opens access to the entire route network of Norway and the world. Basic amenities are available for travellers, including parking and car rental options, making the airport a convenient launchpad for trips to picturesque surroundings such as the Lyngen Alps and Reisa National Park.

To contact the administration of Sørkjosen Airport (SOJ) and obtain the latest information, you can use the following contacts:

• Official Website: All detailed information regarding schedules, services, and regulations can be found on the official website of the operator Avinor: avinor.no/en/airport/sorkjosen-airport.
• Information Desk Phone: For general enquiries, you can call: (+47) 67 03 48 20.
• Airport Address: Sørkjosen lufthavn, 9152 Sørkjosen, Norway.
• Email: A direct email address for general enquiries is not published. It is recommended to use the feedback form on the official Avinor website.
• Social Media: It is most convenient to follow news and updates on the official pages of the operating company, Avinor.
• Lost Luggage Information: If your luggage has been lost or damaged, you must first contact the representative of the airline you travelled with.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance and consultations, use the information desk phone number or the online form on the airport website.

Getting to Sørkjosen Airport (SOJ) from the city of the same name is quite simple, as it is located just a few kilometres from the centre. Depending on your budget, time, and preferences, you can choose one of several convenient methods.

Public Transport
The most budget-friendly option to reach the airport is the regional bus. Routes passing through Sørkjosen usually make a stop near the airport. It is important to check the schedule in advance on the website of the local transport company (Troms fylkestrafikk), as buses do not run very frequently, and their schedule may be linked to flight departure and arrival times. There is no direct metro or rail connection to the airport.

Taxi and Transfer
A trip by taxi is the fastest and most comfortable way to get to the terminal. The journey from the city centre will take just 5-10 minutes. This is an ideal option if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling in a small group. Given the size of the town, it is recommended to book a car in advance, especially if your flight is early in the morning or late at night. The cost will be higher than the bus, but it ensures maximum convenience.

Car Rental
If you plan to explore the picturesque surroundings of northern Norway, renting a car is the best solution. You can book a car online in advance and pick it up upon arrival at the airport or in the city. This gives you complete freedom of movement. The drive from the centre of Sørkjosen to the airport is very simple and does not take much time.

Alternative Routes
Since Sørkjosen Airport mainly serves regional flights, travellers often consider flying into larger neighbouring airports. Popular options are Tromsø Langnes Airport (TOS) and Alta Airport (ALF), which handle a greater number of flights, including international ones. From there, you can comfortably reach Sørkjosen by rental car or intercity bus, which will also allow you to enjoy the scenic views of Northern Norway.

Airport Parking
For those arriving in their own or rented vehicle, parking is provided at Sørkjosen Airport. It is located in the immediate vicinity of the terminal building, which is very convenient. Both short-term and long-term parking options are available at standard regional rates.

Sørkjosen Airport (SOJ) is a small regional airport serving the Nordreisa municipality in Norway. Its structure is extremely simple and convenient for passengers: the airport consists of one compact passenger terminal that handles both departing and arriving flights.

Thanks to its modest size, navigation within the terminal is intuitive. The airport layout is maximally simplified: upon entering the building, you immediately find yourself in the common area where the check-in counters are located. Nearby are the security checkpoint and a small waiting area with a boarding gate. The departure and arrival zones are located in close proximity to each other, making it impossible to get lost. There are no transfers between terminals as they are unnecessary.

Completing all pre-flight formalities at Sørkjosen Airport takes minimum time. Flight check-in and security screening usually proceed very quickly; typically, this takes no more than 15–20 minutes. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately one hour before departure to drop off luggage and go through all procedures without rushing.

The main feature of the terminal is its functionality and lack of excess. There are no numerous shops or restaurants here as in major hubs, but there is everything necessary for a comfortable wait for your flight in a small café. Since all services are located in one small space, you will not have to worry about long searches for the right gate. Simply follow the signs, which are clearly visible from any point in the hall.

Sørkjosen Airport (SOJ) is not just a transport hub, but an important part of the history of the North Troms region. Its story began on 1 April 1970, when it was opened as part of an ambitious government programme to create a network of regional airports with short take-off and landing strips (STOL) in Norway. The goal of the project was to connect remote communities with the rest of the country, and Sørkjosen Airport handled this task brilliantly.

In the initial stage of its existence, the airport was a rather modest facility. The runway was initially short and had a gravel surface. The first flights were operated by the airline Widerøe using reliable De Havilland Canada Twin Otter aircraft, which were perfectly adapted for flying in the challenging conditions of Northern Norway. For local residents, the appearance of regular air connections became a true revolution, reducing travel time to major cities from several days to several hours.

Over the years, the airport has constantly developed and modernised to meet growing needs and modern aviation standards. The runway was paved and extended, allowing it to accommodate larger turboprop aircraft such as the Dash 8. In 2005, a new control tower was put into operation, and the terminal building has been renovated multiple times to ensure passenger comfort.

One interesting fact is the airport's unique location: it is wedged between high mountains and the picturesque Reisa Fjord, making take-offs and landings here a particularly impressive spectacle. Today, Sørkjosen Airport is a modern and efficient transport hub that continues to play a key role in the economic and social life of the region, as well as serving as a gateway for tourists wishing to explore the Arctic nature of Northern Norway.

Sørkjosen Airport (SOJ) is a small regional aviation hub, so the range of services here corresponds to its compact size. Nevertheless, passengers can count on basic amenities ensuring a comfortable wait for their flight.

For a snack before departure, there is usually a small café or kiosk operating in the airport, where you can purchase drinks, sandwiches, pastries, and light snacks. The selection of shops is limited; typically, this is a small section with essentials, press, and souvenirs. There is no full-scale shopping or Duty-Free zone here.

A general hall is provided for waiting for flights. There are no specialised VIP halls or lounges for business class passengers at Sørkjosen Airport. Passengers are provided with access to free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal territory. There are also sockets for charging electronic devices, although their number may be limited.

Banking services, such as full bank branches or currency exchange points, are absent at the airport. It is recommended to take care of exchanging cash in advance. The availability of an ATM should be checked immediately before the trip. The airport is equipped to serve passengers with reduced mobility — assistance is provided during boarding and disembarking; it is necessary to notify the airline in advance for this.

Among other amenities are restrooms equipped with changing tables for passengers with infants. There are no specialised children's play areas, on-site hotels, conference rooms, or medical centres at the airport. The nearest hotels and a wider range of services can be found in the town of Sørkjosen and the neighbouring settlement of Storslett.

Sørkjosen Airport (SOJ) is a small regional air terminal, so the choice of dining establishments here is quite limited and corresponds to its compact size. Nevertheless, passengers can find everything necessary to have a snack before departure.

In the airport's single terminal, there is typically a small café or buffet. It is located in the public zone (before security control), making it accessible to both departing passengers and those meeting them. The opening hours of this establishment are usually fully synchronised with the flight schedule: it opens some time before the first departure and closes after the departure of the last aircraft.

The menu mainly offers simple and quick options for a snack. Here you will find:

• Hot and cold drinks: Coffee, tea, juices, soft drinks.
• Pastries and sandwiches: Traditional Norwegian open sandwiches (smørbrød), buns, croissants.
• Light snacks: Chips, chocolate, yoghurts.

Sometimes the assortment includes items from local cuisine, for example, famous Norwegian waffles with jam or brown cheese (brunost). For a full lunch, the choice will be minimal, but one can count on a soup of the day or a simple hot dish like sausages. Prices, as in most airports in Norway, are quite high. Options for passengers with strict dietary restrictions (vegan, gluten-free, or Halal dishes) are practically non-existent, so if you have special requirements, it is recommended to bring food with you.

To ensure your journey through Sørkjosen Airport goes as smoothly as possible, use our tips. This is a small regional airport, so large crowds are rare here, but proper preparation is never amiss.

Arrival Time and Check-in: Despite the compact size of the airport, it is recommended to arrive approximately 1.5-2 hours before departure, especially if you need to check in luggage. To save time, complete online check-in for the flight on your airline's website. Screening procedures usually go quickly, but it is better to have a buffer of time in case of unforeseen circumstances.

Seat Selection and Hand Luggage: When travelling around Norway, it is worth choosing a window seat. The views of the fjords, mountains, and coast from the window are often breathtaking. Regarding hand luggage, remember the standard rules: liquids are allowed in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. All sharp objects, including nail scissors, must be checked in as luggage.

Passengers with Connections: If you have a connecting flight, check in advance whether your luggage will be automatically checked through to the final destination. In most cases, when transferring in major hubs such as Oslo or Tromsø, you will need to collect your luggage and check it in again. Allow sufficient time for the transfer, especially if flying outside the Schengen area.

Customs Control: Upon arrival in Sørkjosen from another country (outside the Schengen area), you may need to pass through customs control. If you have no goods to declare, proceed through the "green" channel. Otherwise, choose the "red" channel. Ensure you are familiar with Norway's customs regulations, especially regarding the import of restricted goods, tobacco, and food products.

Saving Money and Flight Delays: To save money, bring an empty water bottle with you (it can be filled after security) and light snacks, as the selection in a small airport may be limited, and prices high. In case of a flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline representative for information. Keep all receipts for necessary expenses (food, drinks) — they may be needed to claim compensation. Having travel insurance will also help cover unforeseen costs.