Overview of Vágar Airport
Vágar Airport is the only airport in the Faroe Islands and serves as the main gateway for visitors traveling by air. It is located on the island of Vágar, which is part of the westernmost group of islands in the archipelago.
The airport is operated by the state-owned company, Avinor, and has a single runway that measures 1,799 meters in length. Its terminal building was opened in 2014 and offers modern facilities for passengers, including a restaurant, a duty-free shop, and a lounge for VIP travelers.
Vágar Airport offers direct flights to several cities in Europe, including Copenhagen, Reykjavik, Edinburgh, and Billund. It also serves as a hub for the local airline, Atlantic Airways, which operates flights to destinations within the Faroe Islands and neighboring countries.
Despite its small size, Vágar Airport has played a crucial role in the development of tourism in the Faroe Islands. Its location in the picturesque village of Sørvágur and its proximity to popular attractions like the Múlafossur waterfall and the village of Bøur make it an ideal starting point for exploring the islands.
Whether you’re visiting the Faroe Islands for business or pleasure, Vágar Airport provides a convenient and efficient way to get there. With its modern facilities and range of flight options, it’s no wonder that it has become such an important hub for air traffic in the North Atlantic region.
Terminals at Vágar Airport
Vágar Airport, located in the Faroe Islands, has one main terminal building that serves both domestic and international flights. The terminal is relatively small, with only four gates, but it offers all the necessary amenities for travelers.
Inside the terminal, passengers will find a variety of shops and restaurants, including a duty-free store, a coffee shop, and a restaurant serving traditional Faroese cuisine. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, and there are several seating areas where passengers can relax before their flight.
The airport also offers several services to make travel easier, such as baggage storage, a lost and found office, and a currency exchange. Passengers with disabilities can take advantage of designated parking spaces, wheelchair assistance, and accessible restrooms.
In addition to the main terminal, Vágar Airport has a separate building for private jet and helicopter flights. This facility, known as the VIP Terminal, provides a luxurious and exclusive experience for passengers who require additional privacy and comfort.
Overall, while Vágar Airport may not be the largest or most modern airport in the world, it offers everything travelers need to make their journey comfortable and convenient. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, the airport’s terminals provide a welcoming and stress-free environment.
Airlines and Destinations
The following airlines operate from Vágar Airport:
Atlantic Airways – domestic flights to Copenhagen, Billund, Paris, Reykjavik, Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Barcelona, and seasonal flights to Faroe Islands.
SAS – direct flights to Copenhagen.
FLYVISTA – seasonal flights to Edinburgh and Bergen.
Icelandair – direct flights to Reykjavik.
Wizz Air – seasonal flights to Gdańsk and Warsaw.
KLM – direct flights to Amsterdam.
British Airways – seasonal flights to London-Heathrow.
Air Iceland Connect – domestic flights to Reykjavik.
There are also charter flights that operate occasionally to and from Vágar Airport.
Transportation Options at Vágar Airport
Vágar Airport is located on the Faroe Islands and serves as the main international airport for travelers visiting this remote archipelago. Despite its small size, the airport offers a variety of transportation options to help travelers navigate the island.
One of the most popular transportation options from Vágar Airport is the shuttle service. Several companies offer shuttle services to the major towns on the islands, including Tórshavn, the capital city. These shuttles are often shared with other passengers and can be a cost-effective way to get around.
For those who prefer to have more flexibility in their transportation, car rentals are readily available at Vágar Airport. There are several car rental companies located within walking distance of the terminal, making it easy to pick up and drop off a vehicle. It’s important to note that driving in the Faroe Islands can be challenging due to narrow and winding roads, so drivers should exercise caution and take their time.
Another option for getting around is the shuttle bus system. While not as extensive as the shuttle service, the bus system does offer affordable transportation to several destinations on the island. There are also several taxi companies operating on the islands, and many can be found outside the airport terminal.
For those who prefer public transportation, there are train lines linking the major towns on the Faroe Islands. The trains are clean and efficient, making them a popular choice for visitors who want to explore the islands without worrying about driving.
Overall, there are a variety of transportation options available at Vágar Airport to suit every traveler’s needs and budget. Whether you choose to take a shuttle, rent a car, or hop aboard a train, you’ll be able to explore all that the beautiful Faroe Islands have to offer.
Parking at Vágar Airport
Vágar Airport offers several parking options for travelers. The airport provides a large car park area located directly in front of the terminal building for short-term and long-term parking. The car park is equipped with surveillance cameras for safety and security.
For those who require extra convenience, the airport offers a premium parking service that allows travelers to park their vehicles closer to the terminal entrance. Payment can be made upon arrival or departure at the pay station located in the car park.
The airport also provides free parking for up to 15 minutes for those who are dropping off or picking up passengers. After 15 minutes, standard parking rates apply. The standard parking rate starts at 40 DKK for the first hour and increases by 10 DKK per hour thereafter. The maximum daily rate for standard parking is 180 DKK.
There is also a discounted weekly rate available for long-term parking at 850 DKK per week. Travelers can pre-book parking spots online or pay at the pay station in the car park upon arrival.
Check-In Procedures
The check-in process at Vágar Airport is designed to be as smooth and efficient as possible, offering a range of options to suit the needs of different passengers. Firstly, it is important to note that online check-in is available for most flights departing from the airport. This allows passengers to check in from the comfort of their own home or office, saving time and avoiding queues at the airport.
For those who prefer to check in at the airport, there are several self-service kiosks located in the terminal building. These kiosks allow passengers to check in, print their boarding pass, and even choose their seat if they haven’t already done so online. Self-service check-in is quick and easy, allowing passengers to avoid the traditional queue at the check-in desk.
Finally, for those who prefer the traditional method of checking in at the desk, there are several check-in desks located in the terminal building. Passengers can approach any desk to check in and drop off their bags, and the staff will be happy to assist with any queries or special requests.
Regardless of the method chosen, it is recommended that passengers arrive at the airport at least two hours before their scheduled departure time, to allow plenty of time for check-in and security procedures. With a range of check-in options available, getting to your destination from Vágar Airport has never been easier.
Security at Vágar Airport
At Vágar Airport, security is taken seriously to ensure the safety of all passengers and staff.
Before entering the security checkpoint, make sure to remove all items from your pockets and place them in your carry-on or personal item.
Be prepared to remove your shoes, belt, jackets, and any objects from your pockets, such as phones and wallets.
Laptops and liquids must also be taken out of your bag and placed in a separate bin for screening.
Follow the instructions given by security personnel and cooperate with them during the process.
Remember to stay calm and patient, as everyone else is going through the same procedure.
By following these guidelines, you can help make the security check process go as smoothly as possible.
Customs and Immigration
Upon arrival at Vágar Airport, passengers will go through passport control and present their travel documents. Non-EU citizens may need to obtain a visa beforehand.
After passport control, passengers will collect their luggage and proceed through customs. Goods that are not allowed into the country, such as certain foods and weapons, will be confiscated.
For departing passengers, they will need to present their travel documents at the check-in desk and go through security screening. They will then proceed through passport control before entering the departure lounge.
Amenities
– Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport.
– There are several restaurants and cafes, including Burger King and Starbucks.
– Duty-free shopping is available in the departures area.
– A currency exchange is located in the arrivals hall.
– There is a play area for children near Gate 3.
– Vágar Airport also offers rental car services and taxi companies are readily available.
Accessibility Services
Vágar Airport strives to provide a comfortable and accessible environment for all passengers, including those with disabilities or mobility issues.
The airport offers a range of facilities and services, such as wheelchair assistance, accessible parking spaces, and adapted restrooms located throughout the terminal.
Passengers who require special assistance should notify their airline or travel agent at least 48 hours before their scheduled departure time.
A trained airport staff member will then be available to assist with check-in, boarding, and any other necessary arrangements.
Vágar Airport is committed to ensuring that all passengers have a comfortable and stress-free travel experience regardless of their physical abilities.
Connecting flights at Vágar Airport
If you have a connecting flight at Vágar Airport, the process is relatively straightforward. You’ll arrive at the airport and go through security as usual.
Then, depending on the airline and your destination, you may need to check in again and get your boarding pass for your next flight. If your luggage has been checked through to your final destination, you won’t need to pick it up and check it in again.
Make sure you pay attention to any announcements or displays showing your flight’s gate number and boarding time. If your first flight is delayed, alert airport staff as soon as possible to see if there are any options to catch your connecting flight.
It’s also recommended to have a buffer of at least an hour and a half between your flights, just in case there are any delays or unexpected issues. Finally, be sure to double-check any visa requirements for your connecting destination before traveling.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
Upon arrival at Vágar Airport, proceed to the baggage claim area to retrieve your checked luggage.
In the event that your baggage is missing, damaged, or delayed, immediately report it to the airline representative located in the baggage claim area.
Complete a lost or damaged baggage report, providing any necessary details such as flight information and baggage description.
If your baggage is found, the airline will arrange to have it returned to you. If it remains missing, the airline may provide compensation for the lost items.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
In case of an emergency at Vágar Airport, passengers and staff can contact the airport authority or emergency services through the phones available throughout the terminal.
The airport has a first aid kit readily available and trained personnel to assist in medical emergencies. However, for more serious cases, an ambulance will be dispatched from the nearby hospital – Klaksvík Hospital.
The hospital is located approximately 40 km away from the airport and has a fully equipped emergency department and medical personnel available 24/7.
Hotel Accommodations
There are various hotel accommodations available near Vágar Airport for travelers who need to stay overnight. One of the closest hotels is the Hotel Vágar, which is located just 400 meters from the airport terminal building.
Another nearby option is the Hotel Streym, which is located approximately 3 kilometers away from the airport. Those who prefer to stay in a more rural setting may want to consider the Gásadalsgarður Guesthouse, which is about 7 kilometers away from the airport.
For those who are looking for a luxurious stay, the Hilton Garden Inn Faroe Islands is located about 40 kilometers away from Vágar Airport, while the Hotel Tórshavn is located about 45 kilometers away.
Insider Tips for Navigating and Enjoying Vágar Airport
– Arrive early to allow time for security procedures and check-in.
– Use the self-service kiosks to save time and avoid long queues.
– Grab a bite to eat at the airport cafe before your flight.
– Take advantage of the free Wi-Fi to stay connected with family and friends.
– Shop for last-minute souvenirs at the airport’s duty-free store.
– Relax in the comfortable seating areas while waiting for your flight.
– Don’t forget to enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and sea.
Contact Information
– Airline Information: +298 35 20 60
– Lost and Found: +298 23 41 00
– Duty Manager: +298 23 41 00
– Car Rentals: +298 23 41 34
– Parking Assistance: +298 23 41 28
– Airport Information: +298 23 41 00
– Customs: +298 56 40 02
– Police: +298 35 14 00
– Fire and Rescue: +298 23 99 04
Airports Near Vágar Airport
If you’re planning on flying into the Faroe Islands, there are a few other airports in the vicinity that you may want to consider. Here are some options and their distance from Vágar Airport:
- Sørvágur Heliport: This heliport is only 1.5 km away from Vágar Airport, and is accessible by taxi or on foot.
- Tórshavn Heliport: Located 33 km away from Vágar Airport, this heliport can be reached by car or taxi.
- Stord Airport: This airport is located across the sea in Norway, but if you’re willing to make the journey, it’s about a 3 hour drive from Vágar Airport. You could also take a ferry to reach Norway, which takes around 5 hours from Tórshavn.
While these options may not be as convenient as flying directly into Vágar Airport, they could be useful for those seeking alternative flights or connections. It’s important to research transportation options ahead of time to ensure a smooth journey.