Svalbard Airport

Svalbard Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a true gateway to the vast Arctic, where adventure begins the moment you land. It proudly holds the title of the northernmost civil airport in the world with scheduled flights, offering travellers a unique experience of arriving in the land of permafrost. Even during the approach, as you gaze through the window at majestic glaciers and snow-capped peaks, you will feel the distinct breath of the North, which cannot be confused with anything else.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

The main "highlight" of Svalbard Airport is its unique geographical location. It is the only airport in the world receiving standard passenger flights at such a high latitude (78 degrees North). The landing here is considered one of the most picturesque on the planet: the aircraft descends over the icy waters of Isfjorden surrounded by rugged mountains. During the polar day, the sun shines here around the clock, while during the polar night, the runway is illuminated only by navigation lights and, if you are fortunate, the Northern Lights.

Despite its modest size, the terminal is distinguished by a high level of comfort and Scandinavian cosiness. All procedures take place in one compact building, which eliminates long walks and the risk of getting lost. Due to the archipelago's special tax status, the airport is effectively one large Duty Free zone. This means that many goods, especially outdoor equipment and clothing for active leisure, may cost less here than on the Norwegian mainland.

Another important feature is the strict yet friendly control. Since Svalbard is not part of the Schengen Area, all passengers undergo passport control, even those arriving from Oslo. However, the atmosphere here lacks the formalism of large hubs: the staff are accustomed to welcoming explorers, scientists, and adventurers from all over the world, creating the feeling that you have entered an elite club of polar explorers.

Below you will find the main contact information for Svalbard Airport (LYR), which serves Longyearbyen and acts as the main air gateway to the Svalbard archipelago.

• Official Website: avinor.no/en/airport/svalbard-airport
• Information Desk Phone: +47 67 03 15 55 (Airport Service Centre, Avinor operator).
• Address: Svalbard Airport, 9170 Longyearbyen, Svalbard, Norway.
• Email: To contact the airport, it is recommended to use the feedback form on the official website, as a direct public email address for general inquiries is not provided.
• Social Media: The airport does not have its own specific social media pages. News can be followed on the official accounts of the operator, Avinor.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact your airline directly or their ground handling agent at the airport.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For consultations and assistance, you may use the information desk phone or the contact form on the Avinor website.

Svalbard Airport (LYR) is located just 5 kilometres northwest of Longyearbyen, the main settlement of the Svalbard archipelago. Getting from the town to the airport and back is quite simple, although due to unique Arctic conditions, transport choices have their own specifics. The main and most reliable methods are the dedicated shuttle bus and taxis.

Public Transport: Shuttle Bus
The most convenient and popular way to get to the airport is the express bus (Flybussen). Its schedule is fully synchronised with the arrival and departure of all scheduled flights. The bus travels along a route stopping at all major hotels and guesthouses in Longyearbyen. The journey from the town centre to the terminal takes only 10–15 minutes. Tickets can be purchased directly from the driver upon boarding, payable by card or cash. This is the most economical and practical option for most travellers.

Taxi and Private Transfer
There are several taxi companies operating in the town that offer trips to the airport. This is a more expensive but also more comfortable option, especially if you have a lot of luggage or are travelling in a group. It is highly recommended to book a taxi in advance by phone, especially if you have an early morning or late night flight, as the number of vehicles is limited. Some hotels and tour operators can also assist in organising private transfers.

Car Rental and Parking
In Longyearbyen, it is possible to rent a car, but this method is rarely chosen solely for the purpose of getting to the airport. Car rental is justified if you plan to explore the surroundings within the available road network. Please note that driving in Arctic conditions requires caution. Svalbard Airport has parking facilities where you can leave your vehicle for the duration of your trip.

Features and Important Recommendations
Walking or cycling from the town to the airport is strictly not recommended and is prohibited for safety reasons. Despite the short distance, the weather can be extreme and unpredictable. Furthermore, outside the settlement, there is a genuine risk of encountering polar bears. Always use organised transport.

Svalbard Airport in Longyearbyen is a unique air hub, and its structure reflects its special location and compact dimensions. There is only one passenger terminal here, which serves all domestic and international flights, making navigation extremely simple for all travellers.

The terminal building features a very simple and logical layout. All key zones—check-in counters, security screening, the waiting lounge, and the baggage claim area—are under one roof and just a few steps away from each other. The airport layout is intuitive, and since there is only one terminal, there is absolutely no need to transfer between different buildings or levels.

Departure and Arrival Zones are clearly separated but located close by. After entering the building, you immediately find yourself in the general area with check-in counters. After completing registration and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed to the single security checkpoint, followed by a small but cosy waiting lounge with boarding gates. The arrival zone is equally compact: passengers enter the baggage claim hall, where they are greeted by a famous taxidermy polar bear—the unofficial symbol of the airport.

Check-in and security procedures at the airport in Svalbard generally proceed very quickly. Thanks to the small number of flights and passengers, long queues are rare here. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 1.5–2 hours before departure. This time will be more than sufficient to complete all formalities without rushing, enjoy a coffee, and purchase Arctic souvenirs.

Svalbard Airport (LYR), located near the town of Longyearbyen, has a relatively short but extremely eventful history. Its official opening took place on September 2, 1975, and this event became a turning point for the entire Svalbard archipelago. Prior to this, connection with mainland Norway was only possible by sea during the summer months, which severely limited regional development, tourism, and scientific research.

Constructing an airport in permafrost conditions was a genuine engineering challenge. The runway was built on a special insulating cushion of gravel and sand to prevent the ice beneath it from melting due to the heat generated by landing gear friction. Early attempts to establish air connections were made using temporary ice airfields, but LYR became the first permanent all-season airport on the archipelago.

The history of the airport is inextricably linked with key events in the region. One of the most tragic moments was the air crash of 1996. At the same time, the airport plays a unique positive role on a global scale: it is through here that seeds from all over the world are delivered to the Svalbard Global Seed Vault, located nearby. This makes the airport a vital link in ensuring humanity's food security.

Since its opening, the airport has been modernised multiple times to meet modern requirements and growing passenger traffic. The terminal has been expanded and navigation systems improved, which is particularly important in harsh Arctic conditions with polar nights and unpredictable weather. Today, Svalbard Airport proudly holds the title of the northernmost airport in the world with regular civil flights, serving as a vital artery for locals, tourists, and international scientific expeditions.

Svalbard Airport in Longyearbyen, despite its modest size and remote location, offers passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait. In the single terminal, you will find a small café where you can have a snack, or drink hot coffee or tea. There is also a shop offering souvenirs, books about Svalbard, warm clothing, and essential items. It is an excellent place for last-minute gift shopping.

For those who need to stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. There are also power outlets for charging electronic devices, although their number may be limited. Regarding financial services, there is an ATM within the airport building. However, there is no full bank branch or currency exchange office, so it is recommended to exchange money in advance in Longyearbyen.

The airport is equipped to serve all categories of passengers. For travellers with children, changing tables are provided in the restrooms. Passengers with reduced mobility can count on staff assistance as well as an accessible environment, including specially equipped restrooms. Basic medical assistance can be provided by airport staff, who will call specialists if necessary.

Svalbard Airport does not have dedicated VIP lounges, business centres, or conference halls, which corresponds to its status as a small regional air hub. There are also no hotels on its premises. The nearest accommodation options are located in the town of Longyearbyen, just a few minutes away by bus or taxi. The general waiting area is sufficiently cosy and offers a wonderful view of the surrounding Arctic landscapes.

Svalbard Airport in Longyearbyen is the gateway to the Arctic, and the dining options here reflect its unique, intimate character. Do not expect a large food court with global chains; instead, a cosy space awaits where you can warm up and have a snack before your flight or immediately upon arrival.

The main and, in fact, the only place for dining at the airport is the Rabbalder Café. It is located in the general hall of the terminal, before security control (landside), making it accessible to both departing passengers and those meeting them. A relaxed atmosphere reigns here, perfect for enjoying a cup of coffee and sharing impressions of your journey through Svalbard.

The café menu offers a good selection for the traveller. Here you will find fresh pastries, sandwiches, salads, and of course, hot beverages such as coffee and tea. For a more substantial meal, a "dish of the day" is often available—for example, a hearty soup or a simple hot meal that warms you up perfectly in the Arctic climate. Sometimes the menu features items with local flair, so it is worth asking about special offers.

Regarding practical aspects: vegetarian options are usually available (for example, sandwiches with cheese or vegetables), but choices for vegans or those on a gluten-free diet may be limited—it is best to check the availability of such dishes with the staff. Prices correspond to the general level in Norway. The café's opening hours are directly linked to the flight schedule: it opens a few hours before the first departure and closes after the last aircraft departs.

Thus, if you are looking for a quick snack, feel free to grab a coffee and a Norwegian waffle or sandwich. If you have time for a full lunch, consider the hot dish of the day. Rabbalder Café is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the final moments of Arctic hospitality before returning to the "mainland".

Travelling through Svalbard Airport is a gateway to a unique Arctic world. Despite its modest size, the airport in Longyearbyen has its own specific features; knowing them will make your trip as comfortable as possible. We recommend arriving at the airport at least 2 hours before departure. Although it is small, all flights heading to mainland Norway undergo procedures similar to international ones due to the special status of Svalbard.

The check-in and security screening process at Svalbard Airport usually proceeds quickly and without fuss. However, do not be complacent: security rules here are standard. When choosing a seat on the plane, we strongly advise taking a seat by the window. The views of glaciers, fjords, and endless snowy expanses revealing themselves during takeoff and landing are truly unforgettable and will be an excellent start or finish to your Arctic adventure.

In your hand luggage, besides the standard set of items, be sure to pack a portable charger and keep electronics (phones, cameras) close to your body, as batteries drain much faster in the cold. It is also useful to have a change of warm clothes in your hand luggage, especially if you are flying with connections. Prohibitions are standard: liquids over 100 ml, sharp objects, and other dangerous substances.

A key feature of the airport relates to customs control. Svalbard is a duty-free zone and is not part of the Schengen Area. This means that when flying from the archipelago to mainland Norway (for example, to Oslo or Tromsø), you will have to undergo full passport and customs control upon arrival. Please be mindful of regulations regarding the import of duty-free goods purchased on Svalbard.

If you have a planned connection, it will likely be in Oslo or Tromsø. Please note that you will require extra time to pass border control and possibly to collect and re-check your luggage. Passengers transiting through Norway to other Schengen countries will need to pass border control at the first airport of arrival on the mainland.

To save time, always complete online check-in for your flight. To save money, remember the duty-free status of the archipelago—some goods are indeed cheaper here. However, always check your purchases against the customs limits of your destination country. The most reliable way to get to or from the airport is the dedicated shuttle bus (Flybussen), which operates before every flight.

Flight delays due to severe weather conditions are not uncommon in the Arctic. In the event of a delay, remain calm and follow information from the airline. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers such instances. The airport itself has a small cafeteria and souvenir shop, but it is not designed for long waits. Always have a backup plan and necessary items in your hand luggage.