 The government supported the construction of Hålogaland Bridge on the condition that Narvik Airport, Framnes be closed.Minister of Transport Magnhild Meltveit Kleppa stated in 2010 that money saved on having to upgrade the runway safety area and the operating deficits of the airport and subsidies for the route could help finance the bridge, estimated to cost NOK 2.2 billion.The bridge will reduce the travel distance by road from Narvik to the Evenes by and 20 minutes, to and 55 minutes.