Avinor reports improved first-half profit as passenger traffic grows

Avinor delivered improved results in the first half of 2026 despite geopolitical uncertainty, higher energy prices and continued cost pressures.

The Norwegian airport operator recorded operating income of NOK 7.1 billion, up 8.6% on an adjusted basis, supported by higher revenue per passenger and a 2.1% increase in passenger numbers. Adjusted operating profit rose by NOK 288 million to NOK 1.1 billion. Operating expenses increased by 4.7% to NOK 4.6 billion, mainly due to wage inflation, general price increases and higher energy costs.

Avinor’s airports handled 25.9 million passengers during the six-month period. International traffic grew by 3.6% and domestic traffic by 1.2%, with international passengers accounting for 41.5% of the total. Bergen Airport recorded the strongest growth among the larger airports, at 6.9%, while regional airports grew by 4.8%, led by Tromsø, Bodø and Harstad/Narvik.

Aircraft movements increased by only 0.4%, including an 8.4% rise in offshore operations. Domestic movements declined by 0.2%.

Operational performance also improved, with average punctuality reaching 87%, two percentage points higher than a year earlier and above Avinor’s 85% target. Regularity remained at 98%.

Avinor said it would continue reducing costs while financing major government-mandated projects, including new airports at Bodø and Mo i Rana, upgraded security controls, defence-related work at Evenes and Andøya, and new air-navigation systems.

The company expects moderate long-term growth, with passenger numbers reaching approximately 59 million by 2032. International tourism is expected to drive most of the increase, while domestic traffic is forecast to remain broadly stable. However, geopolitical tensions, energy prices, fuel availability, airline capacity and growing defence requirements remain important risks.