The opening of the first-ever international airport in Greenland has marked a new chapter in the country's bid to grow its tourism market. It was welcomed by travel experts at the Baltic Travel Company, which focuses on unique, experiential, and memorable travel experiences to some of the world's most remote landscapes.
Last October, Nuuk opened the doors of its brand new aviation space, introducing the first civilian airport. This will make Arctic travel more accessible to explorers and adventurous travellers from around the world.
The Significance of the Opening of Nuuk International Airport
Greenland has long been a go-to destination for Arctic expeditions, festive travel experiences, and immersive tours that allow guests to venture into the pristine wildernesses, scenery and natural wonders that the country is known for – but its position in the Arctic Circle has presented travel challenges even for ardent winter sports lovers.
The worlds’ largest island and second largest ice sheet is renowned for its vast unspoiled vistas, unparalleled Northern Lights viewing, and treasured Inuit culture, with high demand visitor experiences ranging from glacier hiking to fjord kayaking, whale watching, heading to the UNESCO World Heritage Ilulissat Icefjord, and more relaxing options such as indulging in the natural hot springs.
Last winter, the newly renovated and expanded airport became the first major airport in the Arctic. Based in the capital of Nuuk, it incorporates a terminal for international arrivals, a longer runway, and the infrastructure to support larger planes and airlines in taking flights into the heart of the territory.
The benefits are anticipated to be significant, with previous Greenland travel experiences widely dependent on transport connections by small aircraft, boat and cruise ship. This will make it faster, more affordable, and considerably more convenient for guests to fly straight into the Danish territory.
Impacts of Greenland’s New International Airport on Arctic Travel
The Greenlandic tourism market is vital and contributes to sustainability projects and efforts to conserve and protect the delicate Arctic ecosystems. It helps to maintain national parks and heritage sites which are home to rare species from fin whales and narwhals to ivory gulls, Arctic foxes and white-tailed eagles alongside wolves, polar bears, walruses and seals.
Amid US President Trump's repeated intention to acquire Greenland, the self-governing territory has invested significant effort in scaling up tourism infrastructure to welcome international guests, while focusing on developing the industry in a way that has a minimal footprint on traditional ways of life and the scenery that so many travel to see.
Premier Múte B. Egede has announced further developments and stated that the airport isn’t solely a route to a more robust, independent economy but a pathway that will help Greenland become a truly autonomous country with less reliance on Denmark.
The sector plan aims to ensure that by 2035, tourism will contribute 40% of Greenlandic exports and establish Greenland as a viable, competitive destination where ecotourism is at the heart of every traveller's experience.
How Greenland’s First Civilian Airport Will Broaden Access for Global Travellers
Birthe Nielsen, Managing Director of the Baltic Travel Company says, ‘Nuuk International has long been in planning, and it has been wonderful to see the innovative, forward-facing and environmentally sensitive way in which this special destination in the Arctic has created greater opportunity for tourism to expand, while protecting the ice sheets and wildlife that call Greenland home.
The benefit for travellers is significant, with options for larger aircraft to land directly in the country for the first time ever and a longer runway that can support some of the best-known airlines, including Icelandair.
While more air travel seems counterintuitive, the effects are incredibly positive. It reduces travel times, lowers dependence on multiple domestic transfers, and ensures guests can begin their Arctic adventures without delays and without the need to depend on connecting flights, followed by road journeys, sea voyages, or ferries.
Previously, a majority of passengers would, for example, have flown to airports such as Kangerlussuaq and booked onward air travel through a smaller aircraft, or flown into Copenhagen or Keflavik before taking a connecting flight.
Our Greenland holiday packages have always attracted sustained interest, with greater demand for immersive experiences in the world's last wilderness. However, this modern, efficient new airport means that more guests can join an Arctic adventure, spend New Year's watching the Northern Lights, or experience the magic of the Midnight Sun in the Greenlandic summer than might have had the opportunity before. ‘
Read more about Baltic Travel Company - The Baltic Travel Company Experts Explain Why Northern Lights Travel Is Growing 9.8% Year on Year
About Baltic Travel Company
We specialise in crafting unique, tailor-made travel experiences that showcase the diverse wonders of Europe and the Baltic region. With over 15 years of experience, our dedicated travel experts are committed to providing exceptional service and unparalleled expertise to ensure your Baltic adventure exceeds your expectations. From cultural city breaks to the inspiring northern lights and breathtaking natural landscapes, our carefully curated itineraries highlight the very best of the Nordic Region, Scandinavia, The Baltic Region, Poland, Slovakia and more. Whether you're a solo traveler, couple, or group, embark on a journey of discovery with Baltic Travel Company – your ultimate travel partner in exploring the hidden gems of the Baltics.
Media Contact:
Birthe Nielsen
Baltic Travel Company
Tel:+44 (0)2082332875
Published by: Steve OBrien