Trollhättan-Vänersborg Airport

Overview

Gothenburg-Stallbacka Airport, also known as Trollhättan-Vänersborg Airport (IATA: THN, ICAO: ESGT), is a regional airport situated in Västra Tunhem, Sweden. It primarily serves the cities of Trollhättan, Vänersborg, and the surrounding area, providing a convenient alternative to the much larger Gothenburg Landvetter Airport for general aviation, flight training, and charter flights. The airport handles a mix of private aircraft, business jets, and occasional seasonal charter traffic, particularly to holiday destinations in southern Europe.

Stallbacka Airport is classified as a regional airport with a single asphalt runway. It is particularly popular among pilots flying for leisure or business, as it tends to be less congested and more straightforward than Landvetter. The airport also hosts flying clubs and aviation-related businesses, making it a hub for local flight enthusiasts. While it does not handle scheduled commercial flights on a regular basis, charter operators sometimes use Stallbacka for direct departures to Mediterranean resorts.

Passengers passing through Stallbacka Airport can expect a calm, no-frills environment. The terminal building is compact and efficient, designed to process travellers quickly. With peak hours typically occurring in the afternoon, particularly around 3–4 PM, the airport can become busier with departing charter flights or returning general aviation traffic. Outside these times, the atmosphere is relaxed.

Location & Access

Gothenburg-Stallbacka Airport is located approximately 8 kilometres north-west of Trollhättan city centre and about 6 kilometres south-west of Vänersborg. It lies in the municipality of Västra Tunhem, which is part of the Västra Götaland County. The airport's address is Stallbacka, 461 94 Trollhättan, Sweden.

Access to the airport is primarily by car. From Trollhättan, follow the E45 highway north or the county road 42 towards Vänersborg, then look for signs to Stallbacka Airport. On-site parking is available, including spaces designated for wheelchair users, and the car park is conveniently located just steps from the terminal entrance. For those using ride-hailing services or taxis, the airport is a short drive from central Trollhättan (about 10 minutes) and about 20 minutes from Vänersborg.

Public transport connections are limited. The nearest bus stop is roughly 2 kilometres away, with infrequent services to Trollhättan and Vänersborg. Most passengers therefore rely on private vehicles, rental cars, or pre-booked airport transfers. The airport's website (gsairport.se) provides up-to-date information on parking and local transport options.

For those arriving from further afield, Gothenburg Landvetter Airport is about 100 kilometres south, with a driving time of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes via the E45 route. Some travellers choose to fly into Landvetter and then connect by road to Stallbacka for onward private flights or charter departures.

Facilities

As a small regional airport, Stallbacka offers a focused set of amenities designed to meet the basic needs of passengers. The terminal building features a waiting area, toilets, and a designated wheelchair-accessible toilet. The airport has been equipped with a wheelchair-accessible car park, entrance, and toilet, ensuring that travellers with reduced mobility can navigate the facility with ease.

For passengers who need to store luggage, baggage storage is available on site. This can be particularly useful for those arriving early or waiting for connecting transport. Note that the airport does not have a restaurant or café, so travellers should bring their own refreshments or plan to eat in town before or after their flight. There are no duty-free shops or retail outlets within the terminal.

The airport operates a small check-in area and a security screening point for charter flights. Parking is free or low-cost, depending on the duration of stay. Overall, the facilities are functional and clean, reflecting the airport's role as a streamlined gateway for general aviation and charter travel.

About the Region

Stallbacka Airport serves a region rich in natural beauty and industrial heritage. The nearby city of Trollhättan is famous for its dramatic waterfalls and locks along the Göta River, known as Trollhättan Falls (Trollhättefallen). These waterfalls are a major tourist attraction, particularly during the summer months when water is released from the hydroelectric dams. The area is also home to the Saab factory (originally SAAB Automobile), a legacy of Sweden's automotive history, though car production ceased in 2011.

Vänersborg, located on the shores of Lake Vänern, Sweden's largest lake, offers a charming old town and access to water-based activities such as fishing, boating, and kayaking. Lake Vänern is also known for its archipelago of islands and the nearby Dalbosjön region, popular for hiking and birdwatching.

The wider Västra Götaland region is a mix of forests, lakes, and agricultural plains. The Göta Canal, a historic waterway connecting Lake Vänern to the Baltic Sea, passes through the area and is a popular route for leisure boats and cyclists. In winter, the region offers opportunities for ice skating and cross-country skiing on frozen lakes.

Charter flights from Stallbacka often depart to southern Europe, reflecting the demand from local residents for sunny holiday destinations. The airport thus plays a key role in connecting this part of Sweden to popular vacation spots, while also serving the business community that values convenient access to private aviation.

Practical Information

Contact and Website:

• Website: http://www.gsairport.se/
• Phone: +46 520 825 00

Opening Hours: The airport is not open every day. Operating hours are limited and typically align with flight schedules or seasonal demand. Travellers are advised to check the official website or call ahead to confirm opening times on the day of travel. Peak activity occurs between 3 PM and 4 PM, so arriving outside these hours may mean the terminal is quiet or closed.

Parking: On-site parking is available, with designated wheelchair-accessible spaces. Parking is generally free, but it is recommended to verify any changes via the airport's website.

Accessibility: The airport is wheelchair-accessible, with an accessible car park, entrance, and toilet. Travellers requiring additional assistance should contact the airport in advance.

Baggage Storage: Baggage storage facilities are inside the terminal, providing a secure place to leave luggage.

Amenities: Toilets and a wheelchair-accessible toilet are available. There are no food or beverage outlets, so plan accordingly.

For the most current information, always refer to the airport's official website or contact them directly by phone.