Olbia Airport Terminal
Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (IATA: OLB, ICAO: LIEO), officially renamed in 2025 as Olbia-Costa Smeralda-Prince Karim Aga Khan IV Airport, is the main gateway to the northeast of Sardinia and the renowned Costa Smeralda region1. The airport serves as a vital hub for both domestic and international travelers, especially during the busy summer season.
Historical Background
The origins of aviation in Olbia date back to 1921 with the opening of a military airfield, followed by a seaplane base in 19271. After World War II, commercial aviation gradually returned, and the local airline Alisarda (later Meridiana) was founded in 1963. The growth of jet travel in the 1970s led to the construction of the current airport, inaugurated in 1974. A major expansion was completed in 2004, resulting in a modern terminal designed to handle up to 4.5 million passengers annually.
Terminal Description
Olbia Airport features two passenger terminals:
- Terminal T1: The main terminal, open 24/7 year-round, covers 43,500 square meters and integrates elegant, modern architecture with Sardinian design elements. It houses most passenger services, shops, restaurants, and VIP areas.
- Terminal T2: Dedicated to charter flight check-in and baggage handling.
Terminal Layout and Zones
- Check-in Desks: 31 in T1, 12 in T2
- Gates: 16 total, with 5 jet bridges
- Airplane Stands: 74
- Public Areas: 17,095 sqm
- Car Parks: Over 2,000 slots, including 33 free spaces for passengers with reduced mobility (PRM)
The terminal’s architecture features indoor gardens with local Sardinian flora, offering a relaxing environment during your wait.
Levels and Areas
- Arrivals (Ground Floor): Baggage claim, customs, lost & found, car rentals, and access to ground transportation.
- Departures (Upper Level): Check-in, security, boarding gates, shops, and restaurants.
Shops and Restaurants
The airport boasts a wide selection of shops and eateries both landside (before security) and airside (after security). Options include:
- Shops: Duty-free, travel essentials, local crafts, and Sardinian specialties.
Restaurants & Bars:
- Grain & Grapes: Fresh pasta and wine bar
- Kara Food Bar: Snacks and sandwiches
- Kara Kiosk Snack Bar & Pizzeria: Wood-fired pizza and BBQ in an open-air setting
- Fish & Wine: Seafood and wine with apron views
- Time in Jazz Music Bar: Breakfast, grill, and vegetarian options
- Algida Store: Gelato and cold treats at the main entrance
Try local Sardinian dishes at Grain & Grapes or Kara Food for an authentic culinary experience before your flight.
VIP Lounges
Olbia Airport offers VIP lounges with amenities such as comfortable seating, complimentary refreshments, Wi-Fi, and dedicated staff. These lounges provide a quiet space to relax or work before departure.
Purchase your pass to Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport lounges
Frequent flyers and business travelers can access VIP areas for added comfort and privacy.
Services and Facilities
- Wi-Fi: Free, unlimited access throughout the terminal. Connect to “Wifi Olbia Airport”.
- Luggage Storage: Baggage room in the arrivals hall, open daily 9:00–20:00; €10 per 24 hours.
- Device Charging: Charging stations are available throughout the terminal for phones, tablets, and laptops.
- ATMs & Currency Exchange: Multiple ATMs in short- and long-term parking areas.
- Shops & Supermarket: Duty-free and travel stores for last-minute purchases.
- Family Services: Baby changing facilities and family-friendly amenities.
- PRM Services: Dedicated support for passengers with reduced mobility, including free parking slots, wheelchair assistance, and accessible restrooms.
- Security & Baggage Control: Efficient security screening and baggage handling.
- Lost & Found: Dedicated counters to assist with lost items; staff provide support for all passengers, including unaccompanied minors.
- Check-in & Boarding: 31 check-in desks in T1, 12 in T2. Priority counters available for some airlines.
For a smoother experience, use online check-in and arrive early during peak summer months.
Popular Flights: Summary Table
| Destination | Airline(s) | Flight Duration (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Milan (LIN, MXP) | AeroItalia, easyJet, Neos, Wizz Air | 1h 15m–1h 30m |
| Rome (FCO, CIA) | AeroItalia, Volotea, Wizz Air | 1h 5m–1h 15m |
| London (LHR, LGW, STN, LTN, LCY) | British Airways, easyJet, Jet2.com, Ryanair, TUI Airways | 2h 30m–2h 45m |
| Paris (CDG, ORY) | Air France, easyJet, Transavia, Volotea | 2h 10m–2h 20m |
| Munich (MUC) | Air Dolomiti, Lufthansa, Condor | 1h 50m–2h |
| Vienna (VIE) | Austrian Airlines, Ryanair | 2h |
| Barcelona (BCN) | Volotea, Vueling | 1h 40m |
| Zurich (ZRH) | Edelweiss Air, easyJet | 1h 35m |
| Dublin (DUB) | Aer Lingus, Ryanair | 2h 55m |
| Madrid (MAD) | Iberia, Volotea | 2h 20m |
Many routes are seasonal and operate mainly between April and October, so always check schedules in advance.
Additional Tips
- Ground Transportation: The airport is well connected by local and regional buses, taxis, and car rentals. Consider booking transfers in advance during the high season.
- Parking: Multiple parking options, including short-term, long-term, and low-cost lots. PRM-designated spaces are available near the terminal.
- Events & Art: The terminal occasionally hosts art exhibitions and cultural events, reflecting Sardinia’s vibrant heritage.
Olbia Airport combines modern efficiency with local charm, making it a comfortable and convenient entry point to Sardinia.