Kardla Airport

The Small But Mighty Kardla Airport: A Hidden Gem in Estonia

When people think of airports, they often think of huge and bustling airports in major cities like New York, London, or Tokyo. These airports are often seen as symbols of modern technology and transportation, handling millions of passengers and cargo every year. However, in the heart of the tranquil island of Hiiumaa in Estonia lies an airport that may not seem as grandiose as the ones previously mentioned, but it definitely holds its own unique charm and importance – the Kardla Airport.

Opened in 1963, the Kardla Airport is the only airport on the island of Hiiumaa, making it a crucial gateway for locals and tourists alike OpenedHost.Com. Despite its small size, it serves an important role in connecting the island to the rest of Estonia and the world. In this article, we will delve into the history and features of this airport that may be small in size, but certainly not in significance.

The Beginnings of Kardla Airport

The construction of Kardla Airport began in the early 1960s, as part of a larger project to connect all the major islands in Estonia by air. It was initially meant for military use, but the airport was eventually opened to civilian flights in 1963. However, due to its remote location and limited infrastructure, the airport did not attract a lot of traffic and was mainly used for emergency and charter flights.

In 1999, the airport underwent major renovations and expansions, with the construction of a new terminal building, extended runway, and upgraded facilities. This led to an increase in air traffic, especially with the introduction of regular flights to the Estonian capital, Tallinn. Today, Kardla Airport is managed and operated by Tallinn Airport Ltd., along with four other regional airports in Estonia Korla Airport.

Features and Facilities

At first glance, Kardla Airport may seem like any other small airport one might come across. But a closer look will reveal some unique features that make this airport stand out. For starters, the airport has a limited number of passenger gates – only four, to be exact. However, this is not a hindrance as the airport mainly serves small commuter planes and private jets. This also gives the airport a more intimate and personal feel, which is a refreshing change from the usual hectic nature of larger airports.

As for cargo operations, Kardla Airport does not have any designated cargo gates. However, delivery of small packages and urgent cargo can be arranged with the airline operating at the airport, Nordica. This is a testament to the airport's commitment to serving the needs of its passengers and the island's community.

Kardla Airport is currently served by one airline, Nordica, which operates daily flights to and from Tallinn. With six daily flights, travelers have ample options to plan their trips and connect to other destinations. This makes it easier for both tourists and locals to travel to and from the island without having to rely on ferries or other means of transportation.

Another highlight of Kardla Airport is its VIP lounge, which provides a luxurious and comfortable experience for travelers. Here, passengers can relax, catch up on work, or enjoy a range of complementary snacks and beverages. The lounge also offers a panoramic view of the airport, providing a pleasant and unique spot for plane spotting.

The airport also has parking facilities for those who prefer to drive to the airport. The parking lot is conveniently located just outside the terminal building, making it easy to access for those with heavy luggage. For travelers who require a vehicle during their stay on the island, car rental facilities are also available at the airport.

For those looking for a quick bite before their flight, Kardla Airport has one restaurant and cafe within its premises. This restaurant offers a variety of local and international dishes, giving passengers a taste of Estonian cuisine before they even leave the island. The airport also has one duty-free shop, perfect for last-minute souvenir shopping or stocking up on essentials.

Convenience and Accessibility

One of the main advantages of Kardla Airport is its close proximity to the island's city center. At just 2 km away, it takes only a short 5-minute drive to reach the airport from the heart of Kardla. This makes it convenient for those who are staying in the city or for travelers who need to catch a connecting flight.

But the convenience of Kardla Airport doesn't just end at its proximity to the city center. For business travelers, the airport is also located only 45 km away from the nearest business hub – the capital, Tallinn. This makes it easy for them to fly in for meetings or conferences, saving them time and effort from having to take a ferry or drive for several hours to reach Hiiumaa.

The People Behind Kardla Airport

Behind every successful airport is a dedicated team of employees, and Kardla Airport is no different. At just ten employees, the staff at Kardla Airport may not be as numerous as those in larger airports, but they are just as dedicated and hardworking. From managing the air traffic control tower to ensuring the facilities are well-maintained, the employees of Kardla Airport play a crucial role in keeping the airport up and running smoothly.

For those who may need assistance or have inquiries about the airport, the official contact number of Kardla Airport is available for anyone to call. The friendly staff will be more than happy to provide any information needed or help with any concerns.

Conclusion

The Kardla Airport may not be the biggest or busiest airport in Estonia, but it certainly holds its own unique charm and importance. As the only airport on the island of Hiiumaa, it plays a crucial role in connecting the island to the rest of Estonia and the world. With its modern facilities, convenient location, and dedicated staff, it offers a pleasant and hassle-free travel experience for both locals and tourists. So the next time you're planning a trip to Estonia, consider flying into Kardla Airport and discover the hidden gem of Hiiumaa.