The ongoing climate debate, in combination with air taxes and increased prices of aviation fuel, seems to have made an impact. New figures from Swedavia, which owns Sweden's ten largest airports, show that domestic traffic has fallen by eight percent so far this year. In addition to Swedavia's airports, there are 34 non-state airports, which are largely owned by municipalities and regions. There the tap is double.

- We have distinct domestic destinations, and then the consequences of flight tax and flight comb as notion become noticeable. Swedavia may pick up some of its decline on international flights, but we cannot, says Peter Larsson, CEO of the Swedish regional airports association SRF, which represents Sweden's non-state airports.

Airports are at a loss

All 34 airports, except one of two privately owned, are at a loss. But Peter Larsson does not think it should be seen that the smaller airports are doomed.

- We also have a responsibility towards the state for socially beneficial activities such as ambulance flights and other things. There are many small flights that are of great importance.

"Don't have any options"

Lapland airport in Gällivare, which is owned by the municipality, is one of all airports that has noticed the trend with fewer travelers. The airport was hit hard by Nextjet's bankruptcy last year and stood without a flight for almost four months. But there is no risk of the airport being closed down, according to Michael Gustafsson, airport manager.

- We have state traffic obligations, Gällivare must have air traffic in order for the state accessibility targets to be met.

Michael Gustafsson does not think that discussions about flying combs have bearing in Lapland.

- We must be able to get to Stockholm which is the hub, so for our part it will be strange to be part of that discussion, as we have no alternatives. But I understand that a discussion is needed where there are alternatives to aviation.