Civil Airfield Olbia / Costa Smeralda (LIEO)

Olbia (LIEO) features a large, upscale General Aviation Terminal (GAT) with mandatory handling, typically arranged easily via email at handling@eccelsa.com. Operations are generally professional and efficient, though the airport can be very busy, leading to delays for clearances, taxiing, and fuel. Handling is required for all GA traffic; arrival and departure slots are not needed for general aviation. The release procedure before startup is enforced: obtain release on the designated operator frequency (commonly 131.405), then request startup from ground, and expect to wait for a follow-me car to guide you even short distances.

Fees are considered low to moderate for the quality of service and facilities. Multiple recent examples show total costs (landing, handling, parking for 3–6 days) ranging from about €60 to €250. Example: landing, handling, and six nights about €110; another example: landing, handling, and three nights about €70. Shorter stays or single-day visits may be higher per day; Example: one day with one passenger about €180.

The GAT offers high-end amenities and attentive staff. Luggage is often transported by golf cart directly to or from the aircraft. Rental cars from major agencies such as Sixt and Goldcar are available at or near the terminal; car handover can be arranged at the GAT or main terminal (about 15–20 minutes on foot). Taxis into Olbia cost around €20–€30.

Fueling can be problematic: Avgas is available but expensive (about €3–€3.50/liter), with frequent long waits due to prioritization of jets and military traffic; payment by credit card is accepted. Jet A1 incurs a surcharge of about €60 if less than 500 liters are uplifted. Refueling may require taxiing to a distant apron and waiting for staff; delays of up to 90 minutes have been reported.

Parking is usually on Apron 3 for smaller GA aircraft during peak season; parking space is generally sufficient but expect busy periods in summer. No NVFR permitted; see AIP for details.

Overall, Olbia is highly regarded for its facilities and service quality despite occasional operational delays and high fuel prices. The airport is suitable for non-commercial general aviation flights seeking efficient access to Sardinia with premium ground services.