Greenland Opens New Airport in Qaqortoq, Expanding Access to South Greenland

A new airport has opened in Qaqortoq, giving North American travelers direct access to the main town of South Greenland for the first time.

Previously accessible only by helicopter or boat, Qaqortoq now becomes the main gateway to the south, with year-round flights from Nuuk and seasonal flights from Iceland. The airport replaces Narsarsuaq as the primary access point, significantly reducing travel time to the southern part of Greenland. The 1,500-metre runway can accommodate Dash-8 Q200 and Q400 turboprop aircraft.

“South Greenland offers a rare combination of powerful nature and a living culture shaped over generations,” said Visit Greenland director, Anne Nivika Grødem. Improved access allows us to welcome visitors with greater intention – encouraging travel with curiosity, while creating lasting value for local communities and more meaningful experiences for our guests.”

The opening is part of a wider expansion of Greenland’s airport network, following Nuuk’s airport and ahead of Ilulissat’s new airport later this year — making Greenland increasingly accessible.

Air Greenland expects around two daily flights between Nuuk and Qaqortoq year-round, with up to 17 weekly rotations during the summer period. Icelandair plans four weekly summer flights between Keflavík and Qaqortoq.

“This is a big day for the community. The airport connects South Greenland more closely to both the rest of the country via Nuuk and the world via Keflavik,” said Miki Jensen, CEO of Innovation South Greenland. “It creates new opportunities for tourism and business, while strengthening everyday life in the area.”

Improved air access will support year-round tourism, a key priority for strengthening local businesses, reducing travel times, and contributing to more balanced development across Greenland.