Gävle Sandviken Airport (GVX)

Gävle Sandviken Airport, identified by the IATA code GVX and ICAO code ESSK, is a regional aviation facility located in Sweden, situated between the industrial cities of Gävle and Sandviken. Historically a bustling hub for scheduled commercial flights that connected the region to Stockholm and Gothenburg, the airport saw its last regular passenger service in 2001. Today, it serves as a critical piece of regional infrastructure for general aviation, aerial surveying, and specialized flight operations, supporting the local business community and the Swedish National Land Survey. The airport's physical infrastructure remains robust, featuring a 2,000-meter asphalt runway (18/36) that continues to support a variety of light aircraft, executive charters, and emergency medical flights. While the original passenger terminal is no longer utilized for regular commercial transit, it provides a base for several prominent flying clubs, including the Gavle District's Flying Club and the Valbo Flying Club. Essential aeronautical services such as Jet-A and AVGAS fueling are maintained on-site, and the facility remains an important reserve airfield for the region's larger commercial hubs. Currently, Gävle Sandviken Airport operates exclusively under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) and does not host scheduled commercial airline services. Travelers seeking commercial air connectivity for the Gävle area typically utilize Stockholm Arlanda Airport, which is accessible in approximately one hour via high-speed rail or road. Despite the lack of scheduled airlines, the airport remains a vibrant center for the Swedish general aviation community and a vital base for flight training schools. Ground transportation is easily accessible via the nearby E16 and E4 motorways, ensuring the facility is well-integrated into the regional transport landscape.