Mo i Rana Airport, Røssvoll

Overview

New Mo i Rana airport is the recently upgraded air gateway serving the town of Mo i Rana and the broader Helgeland region in northern Norway. Replacing the older airport at Røssvoll, this modern facility is designed to handle increased passenger traffic and larger aircraft, reflecting the area’s growing importance in business and tourism. The airport primarily serves domestic routes, connecting this remote yet industrially significant part of Norway to major cities like Oslo, Trondheim, and Bodø. Travelers include business professionals linked to the region’s mining, steel, and hydroelectric sectors, as well as tourists drawn to the spectacular Arctic nature, including the nearby Svartisen glacier and the Saltfjellet mountains. With its single terminal and streamlined operations, the airport offers a straightforward, efficient travel experience.

Location & Access

The airport is located about 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) northeast of Mo i Rana city center, making it exceptionally convenient for passengers heading into town. The surrounding landscape is dominated by the Ranfjorden, a deep fjord arm of the larger Ranfjorden system, and the forested hills that characterize this part of Nordland county. Mo i Rana itself sits roughly 80 kilometers south of the Arctic Circle, at the head of the Ranfjorden.

By car: The airport is a short drive from the city center via Riksvei 12 (Rv12). The journey takes about 5 minutes. Taxis are readily available at the terminal, and ride-sharing services may operate depending on local availability. Parking at the airport includes both short-term and long-term lots, with rates typical for Norwegian regional airports. Car rental counters are present in the terminal, with agencies like Avis, Hertz, and Europcar offering vehicles.

By bus: A dedicated airport bus service, operated by the local public transport company (Rana Buss), connects the airport to the city center and the main bus station (Rana Storsenter). The ride takes approximately 10 minutes and aligns with flight schedules. From the city center, onward connections reach nearby towns such as Hemnesberget, Ursviken, and the industrial area of Rossvoll.

By walking or cycling: Given the short distance, some passengers may choose to walk or cycle from the city center, using the pedestrian and cycle paths that run alongside Rv12. However, luggage and weather conditions (frequent rain or snow) make this option less practical for most travelers.

Facilities

As a new regional airport, facilities are modern but basic. While no official list of amenities is published, travelers can expect a small terminal with the following typical services:

• Check-in and security: Self-service kiosks and a small security checkpoint designed for efficient processing.
• Waiting areas: Comfortable seating before the gate, with views of the apron and surrounding hills.
• Café/ kiosk: A small café or convenience store offering snacks, hot and cold drinks, and newspapers. Often operated by a local chain.
• Car rental desks: As mentioned, several major car rental agencies have counters in the arrivals hall.
• Taxi stand: Immediately outside the terminal.
• Toilets and baby changing facilities: Clean and accessible.
• Free Wi-Fi: Available throughout the terminal, with reasonable speed for browsing and messaging.
• Charging stations: USB and power outlets near seating areas.

The airport does not have a hotel on site, but several accommodations are a short drive away in Mo i Rana. There are no VIP lounges or duty-free shops, as the airport primarily handles domestic flights (Norway is part of the Schengen area, so intra-European flights are also possible, but duty-free is not typically sold on domestic routes).

About the Region

Mo i Rana is the administrative center of Rana Municipality in Nordland county. The region, known as Helgeland, is celebrated for its dramatic coastline, deep fjords, and thousands of islands. The economy has historically been based on iron ore mining (the town’s name comes from the Rana ironworks), with the large steel plant (Celsa Group) still operating today. Other industries include hydroelectric power, forestry, and salmon farming.

Tourism is growing rapidly, with visitors attracted to:

• Svartisen Glacier: One of Norway’s largest glaciers, located just 30 kilometers northeast of Mo i Rana. Guided glacier walks and boat trips on the fjord are popular.
• Saltfjellet-Svartisen National Park: A vast wilderness of glaciers, plateaus, and valleys, offering hiking, skiing, and wildlife viewing (reindeer, arctic foxes).
• The Arctic Circle: Many travelers use Mo i Rana as a base to visit the Arctic Circle crossing at Polarsirkelen, about 80 kilometers north, marked by a large globe sculpture.
• Helgelandskysten (Helgeland Coast): A series of scenic ferries and bridges along the coast, including the famous Torghatten mountain with a hole through it.
• Cultural attractions: The Rana Museum tells the story of the ironworks and local Sami heritage; the Havmann sculpture on the waterfront is a modern landmark.

Outdoor activities are available year-round, from summer midnight sun hiking to winter northern lights viewing and cross-country skiing. The region is also known for its excellent fishing in both freshwater and saltwater.

Practical Information

Hours of operation: The airport is not open 24 hours. It operates during flight times only, typically from early morning (around 5:00 AM) until late evening (around 10:00 PM). Passengers should arrive no earlier than one hour before scheduled departures, as the terminal may be closed outside these hours. Security and check-in desks open about 60 minutes before the first departure and close after the last arrival.

Contact: No official phone number or website is listed, but general inquiries can be directed to Avinor, the Norwegian airport operator, at their main customer service line (+47 915 04 700) or via the Avinor website (www.avinor.no). For flight status, check the Avinor website or your airline’s app.

Parking: The airport has a single parking lot near the terminal. Payment is made at automatic machines (credit cards accepted). Rates are reasonably priced compared to larger Norwegian airports; expect around 40–60 NOK per hour or 150–250 NOK per day.

Disabled access: The terminal is fully accessible with level floors, wide doors, and accessible toilets. Assistance can be arranged through your airline or Avinor’s special services center (book at least 48 hours in advance).

Proximity to other airports: The nearest alternative airports are Sandnessjøen (about 110 km south), Mosjøen (about 90 km north), and Bodø (about 220 km north). These are regional airports with connections to Oslo and Trondheim, but the new Mo i Rana airport offers the most modern facilities in the region.

Travel tips: Given the small size of the terminal, allow plenty of time for check-in and security during peak periods (typically weekday mornings and Sunday evenings). Weather can cause delays, especially in winter, so check forecasts and have flexible travel plans. If you have a layover or extended wait, the city center is only 10 minutes away and offers cafés, shops, and a library.

In summary, New Mo i Rana airport is a functional, modern gateway to one of Norway’s most scenic and industrially vital regions. Its convenient location and straightforward services make it a welcome improvement for travelers heading to Helgeland.