Gressholmen Airport: Norway's Aviation Pioneer

Imagine a time when airplanes were a novel sight, and the skies were a new frontier waiting to be explored. Gressholmen Airport, located on the island of Gressholmen in the Oslofjord, Norway, was a key player in this exciting era of aviation. Established in 1927, it served as Oslo's main airport until 1939. This airport was a hub for seaplanes, which were the cutting-edge technology of the time, allowing for international travel and mail delivery across the waters. The airport's strategic location near Oslo made it an ideal spot for connecting Norway with the rest of Europe, fostering both economic growth and cultural exchange.

Gressholmen Airport was operated by the Norwegian airline Det Norske Luftfartselskap (DNL), which later became part of Scandinavian Airlines System (SAS). The airport was primarily used for seaplanes, as its location on an island made it perfect for water landings and takeoffs. During its operational years, it was a bustling center of activity, with flights connecting to cities like Copenhagen, Stockholm, and even as far as Amsterdam. The airport played a crucial role in the development of Norway's aviation industry, setting the stage for future advancements in air travel.

The airport's closure in 1939 was due to the opening of Fornebu Airport, which could accommodate land-based aircraft and handle a larger volume of passengers and cargo. However, Gressholmen's legacy lives on as a testament to the early days of aviation, when daring pilots and innovative engineers pushed the boundaries of what was possible. Today, the island of Gressholmen is a nature reserve, offering visitors a glimpse into the past with remnants of the old airport still visible, a reminder of the pioneering spirit that once soared through its skies.