Kiruna’s airspace is attractive

The Esrange space rocket base, which provides services in space and atmospheric research, is located in Kiruna. The Icehotel in nearby Jukkasjärvi attracts many visitors, as does the world’s largest underground mine. The transformation of Kiruna, which is being relocated, has received considerable coverage in the international media.

The airport’s location in northern Sweden means that there is ample free airspace around the airport, which is greatly appreciated by both companies and researchers that come to Kiruna to conduct research and test products in the extreme climate there. For instance, NASA, the US space agency, has conducted ozone research many times in the town. Boeing and Airbus have cold-tested their aircraft while the Met Office, the UK’s national weather service, has conducted research there.

An important part of the town

Kiruna Airport was inaugurated in 1960. The town’s geographical location means that residents and businesses are dependent on good transport, which is where the airport enters the picture. In recent years, the airport has become increasingly important given the increase in business development, tourism and research facilities in the area. Mining operations, space research, magnificent nature, the northern lights and perhaps above all the Icehotel attract people from all around the world.

Facts about the airport
Inaugurated in 1960
Number of passengers 2012: 197,935
Number of landings: 1,238
Terminal floor space: 2,500 square metres
Size of runway: 2,500 metres x 45 metres
Total number of employees at the airport: 60
Number of companies at the airport: 8
Travel time to the centre: 10 minutes