On December 18, 2025, Travel Retail Norway (TRN) announced that it had begun accepting Bitcoin payments at Oslo Airport through the Lightning Network, marking a major step toward digital currency adoption in European travel retail.
The move enables passengers to complete duty-free purchases more quickly and at a lower cost, strengthening Norway’s position as a forward-thinking destination in the global cryptocurrency landscape.
The new payment option is integrated into TRN’s Click & Collect (Klikk & Hent) service, which allows travelers to pre-order duty‑free goods online and pick them up at the airport.
This system already reduces waiting times and ensures product availability, and the addition of Bitcoin payments aims to make the process even more seamless. Transactions are settled instantly in Norwegian kroner, with no additional fees charged by the retailer.
Bitcoin Payments Go Live at Oslo Airport
TRN partnered with Satoshi Consult to enable Lightning Network payments, ensuring high-speed, low-cost transactions suitable for busy airport environments.
The Lightning Network is designed to process Bitcoin payments in seconds, making it ideal for retail settings where speed is essential. With more than 30 million passengers passing through Oslo Airport annually, the integration could significantly increase crypto payment visibility.
Haakon Dagestad, Deputy CEO of TRN, called Bitcoin an “exciting” addition to the company’s payment ecosystem. He emphasized that the initiative aligns with TRN’s mission to operate and develop Norway’s tax‑free stores in a way that supports national aviation funding.
Dagestad added that the move is expected to generate buzz within the global Bitcoin community and highlight Norway as a leader in digital innovation.
Crypto Adoption Expands in European Travel Retail
The introduction of Bitcoin payments comes at a time when digital currency usage is rising across Europe.
While several online retailers and fintech platforms already support crypto transactions, airport retail adoption remains limited. TRN’s decision positions Oslo Airport among the first major European hubs to embrace Lightning‑powered payments.
According to Crypto Briefing, TRN plans to expand Bitcoin payment options to additional services in the future. The company believes that offering digital currency payments will attract tech‑savvy travelers and enhance customer convenience.
As global interest in Bitcoin continues to grow, TRN’s adoption of Lightning Network payments signals a broader shift toward integrating digital assets into everyday commerce. With instant settlement, low fees, and strong consumer interest, Oslo Airport’s new payment option may set a precedent for other airports across Europe.
