Taxi Scam Concerns Raised at Oslo Airport
Oslo, Norway – Reports of potential taxi scams at Oslo Airport are prompting concern among travelers and raising questions about oversight of transportation services. Investigations by Romerikes Blad reveal allegations that some drivers are offering inflated fares to unsuspecting passengers, bypassing the official booking system.
The concerns stem from multiple accounts of drivers approaching passengers directly in the arrival hall, offering rides without utilizing the established taxi queue or app-based booking system. According to these accounts, drivers have quoted fares significantly higher than those available through the official channels. In one instance, a passenger was offered a ride to Oslo Central Station for between 1,400 and 1,500 Norwegian kroner (approximately $130-$140 USD), while the official booking system showed a fare of around 800 kroner (approximately $75 USD).
One driver reportedly claimed the official booking system was only for pre-booked rides, suggesting a lengthy wait for those without a reservation. Another driver allegedly stated that those who had paid for breaks or meals at the airport were permitted to pick up passengers directly. These claims are disputed by Avinor, the company that manages Oslo Airport.
Avinor stated that offering or completing taxi rides outside of the official booking system is not permitted. Christian Øgaarden, Avinor’s head of commercial operations, emphasized the importance of the established system for ensuring predictability, fair treatment, and safe operations. “Rule violations that undermine this are unacceptable,” Øgaarden said in a statement.
The allegations echo similar reports from travelers in recent years. A Reddit user posted in February 2026, detailing an experience where a taxi driver charged 1,500 kroner for a ride from the airport, claiming the initial quoted fare of 650 kroner was merely a fee “to the office.” Tripadvisor reviews also reveal complaints of being scammed by Oslo taxi drivers.
The issue centers on the unregulated pricing practices of some taxi companies in Norway. According to The Norway Guide, taxis are generally expensive in Norway, and certain companies have been known to charge exorbitant rates, particularly to tourists unfamiliar with local pricing structures. Touristscams.co warns visitors to verify a driver’s credentials and agree on a rate before beginning a journey.
Avinor says It’s aware of the challenges and has implemented measures to improve compliance with regulations, including increased enforcement and sanctions for unauthorized activity. The operational responsibility for the booking and logistics system rests with Fast Travel, which declined to comment beyond Avinor’s statement.
Travelers arriving at Oslo Airport are advised to utilize the official taxi queue or the taxi booking app to avoid potential scams. Agreeing on a price beforehand, whether through the app or with the driver before starting the journey, is also recommended.
