Reaching the Arctic Coast of Finland is easier than you might think. Stretching along the northern Bothnian Bay, the region is served by four airports, each offering a different gateway to the coast. Together, they create an air connectivity network that makes the Arctic Coast accessible both from Finland and from international markets. For a region where distances are part of the experience, good connections matter. And accessibility does not always mean a large international airport. Sometimes, a smaller airport can make the journey surprisingly easy.
Oulu – the main gateway
Oulu Airport is the largest gateway to the Arctic Coast of Finland and the natural choice for many international travellers. Frequent flights connect Oulu with Helsinki, providing easy access to the extensive international network of Helsinki Airport.
Oulu also has a year-round direct connection to Riga, opening an important link to the Baltics and beyond.
From Oulu, the Arctic Coast stretches in both directions, offering easy access to destinations from the urban coastline around Oulu to the wide beaches and coastal landscapes further south.
Kokkola-Pietarsaari – small can be smart
Kokkola-Pietarsaari Airport offers another kind of convenience. With regular connections to Helsinki, travellers can reach the Arctic Coast of Finland without navigating a large airport environment. Smaller regional airports can mean less time spent on arrival and departure procedures – and more time enjoying the destination.
For travellers who appreciate a smooth and uncomplicated journey, that can make a real difference.
Kemi-Tornio – a gateway with room to grow
Further north, Kemi-Tornio Airport provides access to the northern part of the Arctic Coast of Finland and the border region of Finland and Sweden. It is a compact airport, but with decent capacity and the ability to welcome new international connections. This makes Kemi-Tornio an increasingly interesting gateway as international interest in Arctic travel continues to grow. And now there is a new connection to prove it.
A new connection from Brussels
Brussels Airlines has announced direct scheduled flights between Brussels and Kemi, starting on 25 December 2026 and operating up to twice a week during the winter season. The new route adds another direct link between the heart of Europe and the Arctic Coast – and is a sign of the growing international interest in travelling to the north. Brussels Airlines is introducing Kemi alongside Kittilä and Evenes as new destinations in its Nordic network.
For the Arctic Coast, improved air connectivity is about more than getting from A to B. It makes it easier for travellers to discover a region where the Arctic meets the sea – from frozen coastal landscapes and maritime heritage to sandy beaches, archipelagos, local culture and year-round experiences.
Four airports. Different gateways. One Arctic Coast.
And from this winter, Brussels is just a little closer to our home coast.
Welcome, explorers from near and far!
