Plans announced for low-emission air traffic between Kokkola–Pietarsaari Airport in Finland and Skellefteå Airport in Sweden

Plans are underway to establish low-emission air traffic between Kokkola–Pietarsaari Airport in Finland and Skellefteå Airport in Sweden, according to a joint statement from the airports’ authorities. While private and taxi flights already operate on the route, there has been no scheduled commercial service until now.

The municipal-owned Kruunupyy Airport company, dedicated to developing air traffic in the region, has entered into a partnership with Skellefteå Airport with the aim of launching regular commercial flights. Initially, these flights will utilize 50% renewable aviation fuel, primarily biobased e-fuel. As technology advances, the transition to electric flights is planned.

Kokkola–Pietarsaari Airport is set to become home to Finland’s first charging station for electric aircraft. Meanwhile, developments in Skellefteå focus on fossil-free aviation technologies, ranging from drones to electric and hydrogen-powered airplanes.

In mid-August, Nordic transport ministers agreed to introduce fossil-free flights on regional routes by 2030 as part of a broader initiative to enhance collaboration among Nordic countries. This agreement aims to position the region as a leader in initiating fossil-free commercial air traffic.

In the coming years, there will be a growing need for additional connections between Sweden and Finland. Kokkola is also launching an appeal to attract new workers, as substantial investments in the region—including lithium production and processing—are anticipated to increase workforce demand. Notably, the major investment project by mining company Keliber, a chemical plant in the Kokkola industrial area, is set to begin operations soon. Lithium is a vital raw material for the battery industry in Northern Sweden and the factory being constructed in Skellefteå, further underscoring the requirement for swift air connections in the region.