The new terminal at Norway’s Bergen Airport Flesland exemplifies contemporary design and operational efficiency, wrapped in a refined expression of Norwegian place and atmosphere.
The main lobby is anchored by an expansive screen that cycles calming scenes of the Norwegian landscape, creating a relaxed mood for check-in and security. The terminal emphasizes seamless passenger flow: self-service check-in kiosks and bag-drop stations reduce queueing, while circulation routes are planned to avoid bottlenecks and maintain steady movement. Clear signage and numerous comfortable waiting areas and workstations support a sense of ease and purpose for both leisure and business travelers.
The terminal emerged from an international architectural competition in 2009. The winning concept established a flexible building that integrates smoothly with the pre-existing terminal, allowing for phased expansion and operational continuity. Construction began in 2014, and the new facility opened on August 17. The project team included Nordic Office of Architecture, COWI AS Team_T3 AS, Norconsult AS, Aas/Jakobsen, Cowi AS and Ingeniør Per Rasmussen AS, who oversaw design and implementation.
Attention to passenger comfort extends to practical details: restroom facilities feature private cabins, touchless water and soap dispensers, and surface sanitation options that reduce unnecessary contact. Interior finishes reinforce a connection to the surrounding landscape — slatted wood ceilings and wall panels evoke a forest canopy, while large windows frame views of runways, distant mountains, wooded slopes and coastal mist. When it rains, the sound of water on the terminal’s expansive roof produces a gentle, rhythmic backdrop that many travelers find calming before departure.
Overall, Bergen Airport Flesland’s new terminal balances aesthetics with functionality. Its clear wayfinding, plentiful amenities and thoughtfully designed public spaces create an environment that supports efficient operations while reflecting the local character and natural beauty of western Norway.