The Arctic archipelago Svalbard can be reached easily thanks to the world’s northernmost airport that receives scheduled flights. Here’s what you need to know about flying to Svalbard.
It’s one of those places that inspire wonder no matter when you visit. Norway’s Arctic archipelago Svalbard is a mass of ice and snow during the winter and a stunning example of our changing world in the summer.
A visit to Svalbard tops the bucket list of many travellers around the world – and with very good reason. If you’re keen to travel to the high north, you’ll likely need to fly there.
Who flies to Svalbard?
There is only one airport on the islands capable of receiving international flights: Svalbard Airport Longyearbyen (LYR).
It is served by regular, scheduled flights operated by both SAS and Norwegian. These flights leave from Oslo Airport Gardermoen (OSL), with some SAS departures calling at Tromsø Airport (TOS) on the way.
The flights leave Oslo Airport from the international terminal. As Svalbard is outside the Schengen Area, passengers are required to clear passport control in Oslo. This means that all passengers regardless of citizenship should take their passport.
What to expect on the flight
The flight duration direct from Oslo to Longyearbyen is about three hours, but can be as short as 2.5 hours. This will of course increase if you are on the SAS flight that stops at Tromsø.
For much of the flight you will be passing over open ocean. The views once you finally get to Svalbard however, can be truly spectacular. They are highly weather dependent, of course!
On my recent trip we only cleared the clouds a couple of minutes before landing. However, my departure was on a beautifully clear day. It ranks up there with one of my most memorable flights!
As you’ll see from the video above, the flight path after take-off takes you over some stunning landscape. Fast-forward to around 8 minutes for the good stuff! The scenery will of course look different depending on the time of year. I flew in early March. In the darkness of early winter, you won’t see anything.
Do I need a visa for Svalbard?
Because of the Svalbard Treaty, anyone can visit Svalbard without the need for a visa. There is however one big condition.
It’s almost practically impossible to get to Svalbard without transiting via Norway. This means that to visit Svalbard, you’ll need to meet the entry requirements for Norway. This applies even if you are only transferring through Oslo Airport.
Citizens of any EU/EEA country along with the USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand are able to enter Norway visa-free for up to 90 days.
Svalbard Airport Longyearbyen
You won’t be surprised to hear that the airport on Svalbard is small. That said, there is a kiosk for snacks, drinks and last-minute souvenirs. It’s also possible to rent a car here, although booking in advance is recommended.