Arlanda Airport Plans Faster Baggage and New Pier Amid Travel Optimism

Arlanda Airport is set to implement a new baggage system and construct a new pier as part of its ongoing modernization efforts. Mats Johannesson, the new CEO of Swedavia, the state-owned company operating Arlanda and nine other airports, views the upcoming travel season with optimism. However, he acknowledges concerns regarding the ongoing crisis in the Middle East and its potential impact on fuel prices and availability. Johannesson aims to downplay immediate threats of disruptions, stating that while the Middle East situation remains a risk factor for fuel supply, it is not currently affecting operations.

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But it is nothing we see at the moment.

Johannesson, who took the helm in March, has been navigating a turbulent start, marked by rising oil prices and initial fears of fuel shortages. He emphasized that Swedavia monitors fuel access closely and is not experiencing issues at present. The airport's "marketplace," featuring shops and eateries, is also under review, with Johannesson assuring that contracts with vendors include clauses regulating pricing to ensure a range of options, from fine dining to more affordable choices. Swedavia actively monitors these prices.

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But it is also about us having a breadth of offerings. So that there are both 'fine dining' and cheaper, simpler alternatives.

Despite global uncertainties, Swedavia anticipates a strong summer travel season, with booking levels appearing robust, according to dialogue with airlines. The airport has already launched 26 new routes this year, including 16 new destinations, with China Eastern Airlines set to begin flights to Shanghai in late June. Johannesson indicated that Swedavia is unlikely to lower airport fees, despite proposals from airlines like Ryanair, which suggested new routes in exchange for reduced charges. Discussions regarding future fee structures are planned for 2027.

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We absolutely do. We follow it continuously by being out and keeping an eye on prices in both shops and restaurants.