How Will New Direct Routes and Expanded Facilities at Rovaniemi Airport Enhance Lapland Tourism in Finland by Winter 2025?
The heartbeat of Finnish Lapland, Rovaniemi Airport, is undergoing a significant transformation. In response to a striking surge in tourism over recent years, Finavia has announced a strategic €3 million investment to extend the airport terminal by 1,000 square meters.
Scheduled for completion before the start of the 2025–2026 winter season, this expansion marks a decisive step toward securing Lapland’s status as a world-class winter travel destination.
With tourism numbers reaching historic highs — including a 29% increase in passenger volume at Rovaniemi Airport alone in 2024 — Finavia’s initiative is a timely, calculated move designed to enhance operational efficiency, improve passenger experiences, and further fuel economic prosperity in the region.
Located just eight kilometers from the Arctic Circle, Rovaniemi Airport serves as the primary gateway for tourists flocking to Lapland’s winter wonderlands. It is renowned as the official hometown of Santa Claus, making it a magnet for international travelers, particularly during the Christmas season.
In 2024, Rovaniemi Airport handled 948,000 passengers, with international visitors accounting for 44% of the total. The airport’s portfolio expanded to include 41 direct international routes, linking Lapland to major cities across Europe such as London, Paris, Milan, and Amsterdam.