Kuressaare Airport has suspended scheduled flights through the end of August
The Kuressaare Airport on the Estonian island of Saaremaa has closed its runway for renovations from August 10 to 31. Regular flights have been suspended for the time being, but rescue and medical helicopters will still be able to operate. Air traffic is scheduled to resume on September 1, according to ERR News.
During the work, the runway’s asphalt surface and markings will be renewed, the existing lighting will be replaced with energy-efficient LED lighting, and a Pilot Controlled Lighting system will be installed. This system will allow pilots to turn on the airfield lighting themselves as needed.
Tormi Loide, Operations Manager at Tallinn Airport, explained that the work was scheduled for August due to the limited window of suitable weather for laying asphalt, applying markings, and performing electrical work. According to Maaleht, the risk of delays and reduced work quality due to weather conditions increases in September and October.
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Tour operators fear that closing the airport in the middle of the summer season could affect the number of visitors to Saaremaa. August is the second busiest month of the year after July. Anu Lomp, head of tourism and marketing for the Saare County local government, noted that the length of the overland journey to the island has already deterred some potential visitors.
The airport operates flights to Tallinn and Helsinki. According to Lomp, more than 2,300 passengers have used the Helsinki–Kuressaare route this year, and flights for next year have already been announced. Air service to Tallinn is also important for island residents and business travelers due to its speed and convenience.
