Dala Airport (BLE)

Dala Airport (BLE/ESSD), also known as Borlänge Airport, is a regional aviation facility located approximately seven kilometers southeast of Borlänge in the Dalarna province of Sweden. Situated at an elevation of 504 feet, the airport serves as an essential gateway for both business travelers and tourists, particularly those heading to the region's popular year-round resorts such as Sälen and Idre, or visiting the scenic Lake Siljan area. The airport transitioned from military to civilian use in the 1960s, with a modern terminal building completed in 1972 when Dala Airport AB took over operations. The airport features a single 2,310-meter runway (designated 15/33) capable of handling regional jets and narrow-body aircraft, equipped with modern navigation aids including approach lights, runway lights, and PAPI systems. The runway's 45-meter width and substantial length make it suitable for charter operations to Mediterranean destinations during peak holiday seasons. The facility is designated as an Airport of Entry, allowing international flights, and operates Monday through Friday from 05:30 to 22:15, with weekend operations scheduled based on demand. The passenger terminal, though compact, is designed for maximum efficiency with both domestic and international operations housed within the same building. Upon entering the main hall, travelers find check-in counters immediately accessible, leading through a streamlined security process to the departure lounge. The terminal includes a landside restaurant and café known locally for its lunch buffet, a small duty-free shop past security, and basic passenger amenities including free Wi-Fi and a children's play area in the departure lounge. The facility's intuitive layout ensures minimal walking distances, making it ideal for quick transfers. Currently managed by the Dalaflyget consortium, which also oversees Mora Siljan Airport, Dala Airport primarily handles charter flights, private aviation, and general aviation operations. While the airport once reached peak passenger volumes of 210,000 in 1989, current traffic is more modest, with scheduled services having ended and the focus shifting to seasonal charter operations. The airport recorded 1,212 passengers in January 2024, reflecting its role as a specialized facility serving specific market segments rather than regular scheduled traffic, though it remains vital for the region's tourism industry and business connectivity.