Bornholm Airport

Gateway to the Baltic Island

Bornholm Airport stands as Denmark's sole state-operated civilian airport, a distinction that underscores its strategic importance to the island's connectivity. Located 5 kilometers southeast of Rønne, the island's largest town, the airport occupies a compact but functional facility with a single asphalt runway measuring 2,002 meters. Operated by the Danish Transport and Construction Agency, the airport serves as the primary air gateway for the approximately 40,000 residents and thousands of annual visitors to Bornholm, a picturesque island in the Baltic Sea known for its dramatic granite cliffs, artistic heritage, and distinctive architecture.

A Century of Aviation Heritage

The airport's history reflects Denmark's early commitment to modern aviation. In 1935, representatives from Rigsdagen, Rønne municipality, and Det Danske Luftfartsselskab (DDL)—which later became part of Scandinavian Airlines—agreed to establish an air connection between Rønne and Copenhagen. Construction began in 1937, and the first route commenced in 1939, though it was suspended after several days due to runway problems. The airport was officially opened on November 16, 1940, with DDL operating a daily Copenhagen service. A temporary terminal was erected in 1941, followed by a proper terminal building in 1961. The Danish state assumed control in 1947, initially renaming it Rønne Airport before adopting the name Bornholm Airport in 1992 to enhance its appeal as a holiday destination.

Modern Routes and Seasonal Connectivity

Today, Bornholm Airport operates scheduled and charter flights through multiple carriers. Danish Air Transport (DAT) provides the backbone of service with year-round flights to Copenhagen and seasonal routes to Aalborg, Aarhus, and Billund. Scandinavian Airlines and Norwegian Air Shuttle offer seasonal Copenhagen connections, while Sunclass Airlines operates seasonal charter flights to Mediterranean and Spanish destinations including Chania, Gran Canaria, Kos, Palma de Mallorca, Rhodes, and Skiathos. Alsie Express provides seasonal service to Sønderborg. The Copenhagen route remains the busiest, averaging over 32 weekly departures and accounting for more than 92 percent of all scheduled traffic from the airport.

Facilities and Passenger Services

The airport terminal provides essential amenities for travelers. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the facility, and a duty-free shop caters to international passengers. Parking is available near the terminal at approximately 1.34 euros per hour. Taxis operate outside the terminal, offering direct transport to Rønne and surrounding areas. The airport features accessible facilities including ramps and assistance for passengers with reduced mobility, restrooms throughout the terminal, and a small lounge with basic amenities. A lost and found office operates at the information desk. The terminal also houses a restaurant offering French cuisine, and designated smoking areas are available outside the building.

Practical Access and Operating Hours

The airport is conveniently situated just 6–7 minutes by car from Rønne via Route 38. Public transportation options include Bus 3 and Bus 5, which connect the airport to the town center and surrounding areas. The airport operates on a limited schedule: Monday through Friday from 05:00 to 21:45 UTC, Saturday from 07:00 to 15:00 UTC, and Sunday from 07:00 to 21:45 UTC. Passengers are advised to arrive at least 60 minutes before domestic flights and 90 minutes before international flights. The airport also serves as a base for the Danish Air Force, reflecting its dual civilian-military role in Denmark's aviation infrastructure.