Overview of Varkaus Airport
Varkaus Airport is a small regional airport located in the city of Varkaus, Finland. It is owned by the state and operated by Finavia, the company responsible for managing Finland’s airports. The airport has a single runway, measuring 1,800 meters in length, and serves both domestic and international flights.
Since its establishment in 1952, Varkaus Airport has played an important role in connecting the eastern part of Finland with the rest of the country. It has also contributed to the economic growth of the Varkaus region by facilitating the transportation of goods and people. The airport’s location near the city center makes it easily accessible by public transportation or taxi.
In recent years, Varkaus Airport has undergone several renovations and improvements to enhance its facilities and services. In 2020, new runway lighting and navigation systems were installed to improve flight safety and efficiency. The airport’s terminal building was also renovated, with improvements made to the check-in, security, and waiting areas.
Despite being a small airport, Varkaus Airport offers a range of amenities and services to make passengers’ travel experience comfortable and convenient. These include a restaurant, a duty-free shop, and free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal building. The airport also provides assistance for passengers with reduced mobility or special needs.
Overall, Varkaus Airport serves as an important gateway to the eastern part of Finland and continues to play a vital role in connecting the region with the rest of the world.
Terminals at Varkaus Airport
Varkaus Airport has one terminal building serving both domestic and international flights. The terminal is modern and spacious, with plenty of seating areas and amenities for passengers.
Upon arrival, passengers can find baggage claim and customs areas easily accessible from the main entrance. The terminal also has a range of shops, restaurants, and cafes, providing plenty of options for those waiting for their flights.
For travelers who need to work before their flight or want to catch up on some reading, there is a business lounge located on the second floor of the terminal. The lounge offers comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and a variety of snacks and beverages.
For passengers with disabilities, the terminal is equipped with elevators, ramps, and wheelchair accessibility throughout the building. There are also designated parking spaces located near the terminal entrance for those with special needs.
The terminal at Varkaus Airport is designed to provide a seamless travel experience for its passengers, from check-in to boarding. Its modern facilities and ample amenities make it a comfortable and convenient airport to travel through.
Airlines and Destinations
The airlines that operate from Varkaus Airport are Finnair, AirBaltic, and Ryanair.
Finnair provides daily flights to Helsinki, the capital of Finland, and to other destinations such as Amsterdam, London, and Paris.
AirBaltic operates flights to Riga in Latvia, as well as seasonal flights to holiday destinations such as Barcelona and Rhodes.
Ryanair offers flights to popular tourist destinations such as Malaga, Crete, and Alicante, as well as to the United Kingdom.
It’s worth noting that some of these routes may be subject to seasonal changes, so it’s best to check with the airline directly for the most up-to-date information.
Transportation Options at Varkaus Airport
Varkaus Airport, located in eastern Finland, provides a variety of transportation options for arriving passengers. One of the most convenient ways to get to and from the airport is by shuttle. Several companies offer shuttle services that can be booked in advance or on arrival.
For those looking to rent a car, there are several car rental companies located at the airport. Booking a rental car in advance is recommended to ensure availability. Additionally, the airport offers ample parking facilities for those who choose to drive their own vehicle to the airport.
A shuttle bus also operates between the airport and the nearby city of Varkaus. This is a cost-effective option for those traveling on a budget. The shuttle bus runs several times a day and can be booked in advance or on arrival at the airport.
Train lines also provide easy access to and from the airport. The nearest train station is located approximately 8 kilometers from the airport, and there are numerous trains departing from the station each day. A taxi or shuttle service can be used to transfer passengers from the airport to the train station.
Overall, Varkaus Airport provides a range of transportation options to suit the needs of all passengers. Whether you prefer the convenience of a shuttle or rental car, the affordability of a shuttle bus, or the efficiency of train travel, there are plenty of options available. Be sure to plan ahead and book your preferred mode of transportation in advance to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Parking at Varkaus Airport
Varkaus Airport provides a range of parking options to cater for the needs of its customers. There are three main parking areas: P1, P2, and P3. P1 is located in front of the terminal building and is ideal for short-term stays whereas P2 and P3 are situated further away from the airport and are more suited for long-term parking.
P1 is the most expensive option with rates starting at €3.50 for the first hour and increasing incrementally up to €25 for 24 hours. P2 and P3 have lower rates, with daily rates starting at €15 for P2 and €10 for P3. Both P2 and P3 have free shuttle services that operate regularly between the parking lots and the terminal building.
For those who require extra convenience, Varkaus Airport also offers VIP parking spaces right next to the terminal building. The VIP spaces cost €35 per day and provide easy access to the terminal building.
Overall, Varkaus Airport provides a variety of parking options to suit different needs and budgets. Whether you are travelling for a few hours or a few days, you can be sure to find a suitable parking spot at Varkaus Airport.
Check-In Procedures
At Varkaus Airport, passengers have several options for checking in. The most convenient option is online check-in, which allows passengers to check in and select their seats from the comfort of their own home or office. Online check-in is available 24 hours prior to departure and closes two hours before departure time.
For those who prefer a more traditional method, Varkaus Airport offers self-service kiosks located in the terminal. Passengers can use these kiosks to check in, print boarding passes, and select seats. Self-service kiosks are available four hours prior to departure and close 45 minutes before departure time.
Alternatively, passengers can check in with a member of the airport staff at the traditional check-in counters. These counters are available three hours prior to departure and close 45 minutes before departure time. Checked baggage can only be dropped off at the traditional check-in counters.
Regardless of the check-in method chosen, it is important for passengers to arrive at the airport with enough time to complete the necessary procedures. Passengers should arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to departure time for domestic flights and three hours prior to departure time for international flights. This will ensure that there is enough time to get through security, drop off baggage, and make it to the gate before the flight departs.
Security Procedures and Tips at Varkaus Airport
At Varkaus Airport, security is taken very seriously to ensure the safety of all passengers and staff.
All passengers are required to go through a security check before boarding their flight.
To make the process smoother, it is recommended to arrive at the airport well in advance of the flight.
Be sure to check the list of prohibited items before packing your luggage to avoid delays at security.
Wear easy-to-remove clothing and shoes to pass through security quickly.
Follow the instructions of the security officers and place all belongings in bins provided at the screening area.
By following these tips and cooperating with security procedures, passengers can have a stress-free experience at Varkaus Airport.
Customs and Immigration
Upon arrival at Varkaus Airport, passengers must first pass through immigration control, where they will be required to present their passport or travel document. They may also be asked questions about the purpose of their visit and the length of their stay.
After passing through immigration, passengers will collect their luggage and proceed to customs control, where they may be required to declare any items they are bringing into the country. If a passenger is found to be carrying prohibited items or goods that exceed duty-free limits, they may face penalties or confiscation.
When departing from Varkaus Airport, passengers will present their passport or travel document at the check-in counter. They will then proceed through security screening and may be subject to additional checks if deemed necessary. It is important to arrive early to allow plenty of time for these processes.
Amenities
- Restaurants and cafes where passengers can grab a bite to eat before their flight
- Shops that offer souvenirs, clothing, and other items for travelers to purchase
- Baby changing facilities for parents with young children
- Free Wi-Fi throughout the airport for passengers to stay connected
- ATMs and currency exchange services for easy access to cash
- Conference rooms and meeting spaces available for business travelers
- Assistance for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair rental and dedicated parking spots
Accessibility Services
Varkaus Airport offers a range of facilities and services for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues.
These include reserved parking spaces near the main entrance, wheelchair ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
Assistance dogs are also permitted in the terminal building and on flights, and staff members are available to provide additional support upon request.
Passengers are encouraged to inform their airline or the airport in advance if they require any special assistance, such as boarding or deplaning assistance, or the use of a wheelchair.
Overall, Varkaus Airport strives to ensure that all passengers can travel comfortably and safely, regardless of any disability or mobility issue they may have.
Connecting Flights at Varkaus Airport
If you have a connecting flight at Varkaus Airport, there are some important things to keep in mind. Firstly, check-in for your connecting flight as soon as possible. This will give you enough time to navigate through the airport and make it to your gate on time.
Check the departure time of your connecting flight before leaving home and plan your travel accordingly. Once you arrive at Varkaus Airport, follow the signs to the connecting flights area. You may need to go through security again before reaching your gate.
Be sure to know your gate number and departure time before leaving the connecting flights area. Give yourself enough time to grab food or use the restroom before boarding your flight. By following these tips, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free experience when catching your connecting flight at Varkaus Airport.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
Upon arrival at Varkaus Airport, passengers can proceed to the baggage claim area. Baggage will be available for pick-up on the conveyor belts.
If a passenger’s baggage is lost or damaged during transit, they should report it immediately at the Lost and Found counter located in the baggage claim area. The staff will assist in filling out a report and provide further instructions on the next steps to take.
Passengers should keep their baggage tags and flight itinerary handy as they will need to provide these details during the reporting process. It is important to file a report as soon as possible as the airlines have specific timeframes for claims.
If a passenger realizes that they have left behind an item on the flight or in the airport, they should also contact the Lost and Found counter for assistance. The staff will take down details of the lost item and keep a lookout for it.
In case a passenger finds someone else’s lost item, they should notify the Lost and Found counter immediately, so it can be returned to its rightful owner.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
In case of an emergency, Varkaus Airport has a well-equipped response team trained to handle a variety of situations. The airport’s emergency services comply with national and international regulations and are on standby 24/7.
Medical facilities can be found in the terminal building, where first aid is provided by trained personnel. If further medical attention is required, the airport can arrange for an ambulance to transfer the passenger to the nearest hospital.
In addition, the airport has a defibrillator on site, which can be used in case of sudden cardiac arrest. All staff members are trained to operate the defibrillator, and it is regularly checked and maintained to ensure it is always in good working condition.
Overall, passengers can feel secure knowing that Varkaus Airport takes emergency and medical situations seriously and is well-prepared to handle them efficiently.
Hotel Accommodations
There are several hotel options available within or near Varkaus Airport to suit every budget and preference.
1. Scandic Oscar, located just 5.8 km away provides standard rooms as well as superior suites.
2. Spa Hotel Kuntoranta is 6.5 km away and offers wellness facilities, a gym, and sauna.
3. Best Western Hotel Savonia is 4.7 km away with modern amenities and versatile conference facilities.
4. Original Sokos Hotel Vaakuna is a 10-minute drive from the airport and includes an on-site restaurant offering a Finnish menu.
5. Cumulus City Airport Varkaus is located only 1.4 km from the airport, providing great convenience for travelers.
Useful Tips
Here are some insider tips to help you navigate and enjoy your time at Varkaus Airport.
Firstly, make sure to arrive early to avoid any potential delays or long lines.
Consider bringing a portable charger for your electronic devices in case you need to recharge during your stay.
If you’re traveling with children, take advantage of the airport’s play area to keep them entertained.
Remember to pack any liquids or gels in a clear plastic bag and place them in your carry-on bag.
Lastly, don’t forget to grab a snack or coffee from one of the airport’s cafes before boarding your flight.
Contact Information
Customer Service: +358 40 455 7044
Lost and Found: +358 40 455 7044
Baggage Claims: +358 40 455 7044
Airport Police: +358 71 876 6543
Emergency Medical Services: +358 112
Airport Manager: +358 40 455 7044
ATM: Located in the terminal building.
Airports Near Varkaus Airport
There are several airports within a reasonable distance from Varkaus Airport:
- Kuopio Airport – located 83km away, it can be reached by taking a taxi or renting a car.
- Jyväskylä Airport – located 137km away, it can be reached by taking a train or bus, or renting a car.
- Helsinki-Vantaa Airport – located 279km away, it can be reached by taking a train or bus, or renting a car. There is also a shuttle bus that runs between Varkaus and the airport.
If you are planning to use one of these airports for a connecting flight or as an alternative departure point, check with your airline for specific transportation options and schedules.