Stavanger Airport, Sola

Overview

Stavanger Airport, known locally as Stavanger lufthavn, Sola, is the main international airport serving southwestern Norway. It is a hub for both scheduled and charter flights, connecting the region with major European cities and domestic destinations. The airport plays a critical role in supporting the oil and gas industry, which is centered in Stavanger, but also serves leisure travellers heading to the scenic fjords and coastal areas. With a single terminal, the airport is compact and efficient, handling millions of passengers annually. It is operated by Avinor, the state-owned airport operator.

Location & Access

Stavanger Airport is located on the Sola peninsula, about 15 kilometres southwest of Stavanger city centre. The airport is situated along the North Sea coast, offering panoramic views of the sea and nearby islands. Access to the airport is straightforward: by car, the journey from the city centre takes approximately 20 minutes via the E39 motorway and Rv509. Taxis are readily available at the terminal, with fixed rates to Stavanger city centre. Public transport includes the Kolumbus bus service, with routes such as the Flybussen airport express coach operating frequently between the airport and key stops in Stavanger, including the bus terminal and hotels. There is also a local bus route (line 42) connecting Sola and Stavanger. For those driving, the airport offers a paid parking lot with both short-term and long-term options, including a wheelchair-accessible car park. The airport is also easily reachable from other towns in Rogaland county, such as Sandnes, which is about 20 minutes by car, and from the ferry terminals that link to islands like Utsira.

Facilities

Stavanger Airport provides a range of facilities designed to make travel comfortable and convenient. The terminal is wheelchair-accessible, with accessible entrances, toilets, and a wheelchair-accessible car park. There are also changing tables in the restrooms, making it family-friendly. Baggage storage is available for passengers who wish to explore the area during a layover. Toilets are well-maintained and located throughout the terminal. The airport has a selection of shops, including a tax-free store for international travellers, cafés, and restaurants serving Norwegian and international cuisine. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal. For business travellers, there are meeting rooms and lounges, including the OSL Lounge. The airport also features a viewing deck where visitors can watch aircraft movements. Services like car rental desks are located in the arrivals hall, with major companies represented. Note that the airport is open all days, but peak hours are typically around 3 pm and 4 pm, when the influx of flights from European hubs arrives. Passengers should plan accordingly for security queues during these times.

About the Region

Stavanger is known as the oil capital of Norway, but it is also a gateway to some of the country's most stunning natural landscapes. The city itself boasts a charming old town with white wooden houses (Gamle Stavanger), vibrant cultural scenes, and the renowned Norwegian Petroleum Museum. Beyond the city, the region is famous for the Lysefjord, a spectacular fjord with sheer cliffs such as Preikestolen (the Pulpit Rock) and Kjeragbolten, a boulder wedged between two cliffs. Hiking to these viewpoints is a major draw for outdoor enthusiasts. The airport also serves the coastal areas of Jæren, with long sandy beaches popular for wind sports. Stavanger is a hub for the oil industry, so many passengers are business travellers heading to offshore installations or company offices. Additionally, the region is a starting point for cruises through the fjords. The climate is maritime, with mild winters and cool summers, but rain is common year-round. The Sola area itself is historic — the airport occupies land that was once a military airfield, and the nearby Sola Strand Hotel is a landmark.

Practical Information

Stavanger Airport Sola is open daily, 24 hours, though services in the terminal may have limited hours outside of flight times. The official website is avinor.no/flyplass/stavanger/, where travellers can find real-time flight information, parking bookings, and details on services. The airport phone number is not listed, but general inquiries can be made through the Avinor contact form online. For lost and found, passengers should contact the airport directly via the website. Security screening is standard, and passengers are advised to arrive at least two hours before international flights, especially during peak hours (3 pm and 4 pm). The airport has no hotel on site, but there are several hotels within walking distance, such as the Clarion Hotel Air and Scandic Forus. Currency exchange and ATMs are available in the terminal. For passengers with reduced mobility, assistance can be pre-booked through the airline or by contacting Avinor.