STOCKHOLM, Sweden - The number of weddings performed at Stockholm's Arlanda Airport are taking off.

Spokesman Niclas Haerenstam recently said such ceremonies increased by more than 30 percent last year compared with 2003.

"It's mostly couples on their way to their honeymoon that take the opportunity to exchange rings at the airport," Haerenstam said.

Last year, 348 couples married at the airport, compared with 261 in 2003. The weddings took place either in the airport chapel or, more commonly, in a VIP room, where they can check in their luggage, order champagne and catering, and when the wedding ceremony is over, be driven straight up to the aircraft.

"The newlyweds get the same service as, for instance, the royal family when they travel," he said. "This is a good solution for those who want a more simple ceremony and who give priority to the honeymoon trip."