Sweden, a country renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and innovative spirit, relies heavily on a robust aviation network to connect its population of over 10 million to both domestic and international destinations. With a thriving tourism industry and a strong economy, Sweden’s airports are essential hubs that facilitate travel, trade, and connectivity. In this article, we explore the top 8 busiest airports in Sweden, ranked by passenger traffic based on 2023 estimates, and highlight their unique features, locations, and significance. From the bustling Stockholm Arlanda to the remote Kiruna Airport in the far north, these airports showcase Sweden’s commitment to efficient and sustainable aviation.
1. Stockholm Arlanda Airport (ARN)
- Location: Sigtuna Municipality, 37 km north of Stockholm
- Passenger Traffic (2023): ~21.8 million passengers
- Key Airlines: Scandinavian Airlines (SAS), Norwegian Air Shuttle, Finnair
- Notable Features: Stockholm Arlanda is Sweden’s largest and busiest airport, serving as the primary international gateway to the country. With four terminals—Terminal 5 being the main hub for international flights—it connects to over 180 destinations worldwide. The airport is well-known for its excellent transport links, including the Arlanda Express, a high-speed train that reaches Stockholm Central Station in just 20 minutes. Arlanda is also a leader in sustainability, targeting fossil fuel-free operations by 2030.
2. Göteborg Landvetter Airport (GOT)
- Location: Härryda Municipality, 25 km east of Gothenburg
- Passenger Traffic (2023): ~5.2 million passengers
- Key Airlines: SAS, Norwegian Air Shuttle, Ryanair
- Notable Features: Göteborg Landvetter, Sweden’s second-busiest airport, serves Gothenburg, the nation’s second-largest city. It operates a single terminal handling both domestic and international flights, with routes primarily to European destinations and a few long-haul options. Known for its eco-friendly initiatives, such as biofuel use in ground operations, Landvetter is a key hub for western Sweden and a convenient entry point to the scenic west coast.
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3. Stockholm Bromma Airport (BMA)
- Location: Bromma, 7.4 km northwest of Stockholm
- Passenger Traffic (2023): ~2.5 million passengers
- Key Airlines: BRA (Braathens Regional Airlines), Norwegian Air Shuttle
- Notable Features: Located just minutes from Stockholm’s city center, Bromma Airport is a favorite for domestic and business travelers. Specializing in regional flights with smaller aircraft, it offers a compact layout for quick check-ins and minimal walking. However, its proximity to residential areas has sparked debates about noise pollution, with some calling for its closure in the future.
4. Malmö Airport (MMX)
- Location: Svedala Municipality, 28 km southeast of Malmö
- Passenger Traffic (2023): ~1.5 million passengers
- Key Airlines: Wizz Air, Ryanair, SAS
- Notable Features: Malmö Airport, once called Sturup Airport, ranks fourth in passenger traffic. It caters mainly to low-cost carriers, offering budget-friendly flights to European cities. Located in southern Sweden, it serves the Öresund Region, including nearby Copenhagen, Denmark. The airport has seen steady growth with new routes, making it an affordable travel option for the south.
5. Luleå Airport (LLA)
- Location: Kallax, 7 km southeast of Luleå
- Passenger Traffic (2023): ~1.2 million passengers
- Key Airlines: SAS, Norwegian Air Shuttle
- Notable Features: The largest airport in northern Sweden, Luleå Airport connects the Norrbotten region to the rest of the country. It’s a vital gateway to Swedish Lapland, popular for its winter tourism and natural beauty. Primarily serving domestic routes, especially to Stockholm, it also supports the region’s mining and tech industries.
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6. Umeå Airport (UME)
- Location: Umeå, 5.5 km south of the city center
- Passenger Traffic (2023): ~1 million passengers
- Key Airlines: SAS, Norwegian Air Shuttle
- Notable Features: Umeå Airport serves the Västerbotten region and is a key domestic hub in northern Sweden. Located near the city center, it offers modern facilities and efficient operations. Popular for travelers seeking the northern lights or outdoor adventures, it also provides some international charter flights alongside frequent Stockholm connections.
7. Åre Östersund Airport (OSD)
- Location: Frösön, 11 km west of Östersund
- Passenger Traffic (2023): ~0.5 million passengers
- Key Airlines: SAS, BRA, easyJet
- Notable Features: Serving Östersund and the nearby Åre ski resort, this airport is a seasonal favorite for winter sports enthusiasts. It offers domestic flights and international routes, including direct easyJet connections to Denmark and the UK. Located on the scenic island of Frösön, it provides stunning views of mountains and lakes, enhancing the travel experience.
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8. Kiruna Airport (KRN)
- Location: Kiruna, 9 km east of the city center
- Passenger Traffic (2023): ~0.3 million passengers
- Key Airlines: SAS, Norwegian Air Shuttle
- Notable Features: Sweden’s northernmost airport, Kiruna serves a remote region known for its mining industry and the iconic Icehotel. It connects to Stockholm regularly and is a starting point for tourists visiting Abisko National Park or experiencing the midnight sun and northern lights. Despite its small size, it plays a critical role in linking the far north to the rest of Sweden.
Conclusion
Sweden’s top 8 busiest airports reflect the country’s diverse geography and economic needs. Stockholm Arlanda stands out as a global hub, while regional airports like Luleå and Kiruna connect remote areas to the broader network. These airports support tourism, business, and trade, contributing significantly to Sweden’s growth. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant cities of the south or the wild beauty of the north, these aviation hubs offer a gateway to explore all that Sweden has to offer.
Sources: Passenger traffic data is estimated based on trends from Swedavia (the state-owned company managing most Swedish airports), airport websites, and industry reports from 2023. Specific figures may vary slightly depending on final annual reports.
Image Credits- Stockholm Arlanda Airport