Hemavan Airport (HMV)

Hemavan Tärnaby Airport (IATA: HMV, ICAO: ESUT) is a regional airport located in the Scandinavian Mountains of Västerbotten County, Sweden. Its primary role is to provide essential air access for the popular twin ski resort villages of Hemavan and Tärnaby, serving as a critical gateway for tourism, particularly during the winter ski season and the summer hiking season. The airport's existence significantly reduces travel time to this remote but popular outdoor recreation area, making it a vital piece of infrastructure for the local economy and community.

Opened in 1993, the airport was specifically developed to bolster the region's accessibility and support its growing tourism industry. A key development in its history was a runway extension in the early 2000s, which enabled the airport to handle larger turboprop aircraft, thereby increasing its capacity and solidifying its importance. Its significance lies in connecting this northern mountain region with Sweden's capital, ensuring reliable transport for both visitors and residents year-round.

The airport is uniquely situated just one kilometer from the center of Hemavan village and its main ski lifts, making it one of the most conveniently located ski airports in Europe. It is approximately 19 kilometers from the neighboring village of Tärnaby. Travelers typically reach their final destinations via pre-booked airport taxis (flygtaxi), rental cars, or local transfer services. Due to the airport's small scale, arranging onward transportation in advance is strongly recommended.

Operations at Hemavan are almost exclusively domestic. The airport facilitates scheduled passenger flights to and from Stockholm-Arlanda Airport (ARN), a route operated under a Public Service Obligation (PSO) to guarantee year-round connectivity. The route is currently served by the airline Amapola Flyg. Passenger volume is modest, fluctuating with the tourist seasons, and typically numbers in the tens of thousands annually.

Facilities at Hemavan are functional and reflect its small size. The airport consists of a single, compact terminal building with a check-in area, a security checkpoint, and a departure gate. Amenities for travelers are limited but include a small café offering light refreshments and beverages, as well as complimentary Wi-Fi. There are no lounges or extensive retail shops. For travelers, it is practical to arrive approximately 90 minutes before departure. Given the limited food options, visitors may wish to eat beforehand. When connecting through Stockholm-Arlanda, it is crucial to allow ample time for transfers, as Arlanda is a large international hub.