Sammendrag
This study investigates the catalytic impact of airports in Norway. In particular, it investigates the impact
that airports have on regional accessibility, social development and economic competitiveness. The
findings are based on two phases of research. The first phase consists of desk research on the findings of
previous studies in Norway and of original analysis of published data for Norway. The second phase
consists of a case study on two airports in Norway; Ålesund Airport and Brønnøysund Airport. The case
study compares the opinions of residents and businesses served by the respective airports and is based
on the findings of a postal survey that was completed by over 2 000 residents and an online survey that
was completed by over 350 businesses.
The analysis finds that airports play an important role in securing the accessibility of regions in Norway.
Regional accessibility as a result of having a local airport is able to enhance opportunities for the social
development of residents such as being better able to: travel for work and leisure; maintain contact
with friends or relatives; attend or participate in sport or cultural activities and events; and, access basic
services such as health and education. Regional accessibility as a result of having a local airport is also
able to enhance regional economic competitiveness by: providing opportunities for the development of
businesses; promoting the export of products or services; enhancing business operations and
production; and, influencing business investment decisions. Local airports also have a wider impact on
their region by influencing the location and retention of residents and businesses.
The analysis finds that impacts vary for the different airports and tend to reflect the size and scope of
services at the airport and the specific characteristics of the region.
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