Wondering how a runway can also mark a geographical border? Right here at Rovaniemi Airport, the Arctic Circle intersects the runway near its northern end. Rovaniemi Airport is more than just a place to catch a flight. It’s a gateway to Lapland’s magic and a testament to Finnish design and resilience.
Rovaniemi Airport stands as the second busiest airport in Finland. It welcomes travelers from across the globe. This is especially true during the peak winter season. Many come seeking the enchanting allure of Lapland and of course, Santa Claus.
Construction of Rovaniemi Airport began in 1939. By 1940, two grass landing strips were ready. Aero airlines launched a route from Helsinki to Petsamo. This route included stops in Tampere, Vaasa, and Rovaniemi. The total flight time was a lengthy 8.5 hours.
The airport suffered damage during the war. Rebuilding started in 1948. Regular air traffic resumed in June. A third airport and air traffic control building was completed in 1953. The Northern Finland Air Navigation Centre moved here from Kemi in 1961.
In 1974, the Hame Air Command moved from Tikkakoski to Rovaniemi. It became the Lapland Air Command. The runway was extended to 3000 meters in 1981. A new air traffic control building opened in 1984. The current airport building was completed in 1992.
Expansions and improvements have continued over the years. Jet bridges were added in 2000. A new air traffic control system was completed in 2006. Runway renovations including new pavement and LED lights happened in 2016. The airport building saw its third enlargement completed in 2019.
Mikko Heikkinen and Markku Komonen designed the airport. These architects are internationally renowned. The airport’s design earned it the Steel Structure of the Year award in 1992. Finavia recognized it as Airport of the Year in 2006 and 2015.
The runway isn’t just for civilian planes. The Lapland Air Command’s F-18 fighter jets also use it. The Air unit of the Frontier Guard of Lapland is located nearby.
In 2017, Rovaniemi Airport served around 580000 passengers. Charter traffic peaks from late November to mid-January. Many visitors come from Great Britain and other European countries. Russian tourists arrive in January.
Today, Rovaniemi Airport continues to evolve. It adapts to the growing demands of modern air travel. It stands ready to welcome visitors to the magical realm of Lapland.
So, as you pass through Rovaniemi Airport, remember its story. It is a story of war and rebuilding. It is a story about architectural achievement. More than anything else, it is your gateway to the enchanting Arctic. Whether you’re here for Santa, the Northern Lights, or the unique beauty of Lapland, Rovaniemi Airport is where your adventure truly begins.