Ilulissat to Copenhagen Direct as New Airport Opens
Air Greenland will launch a direct Ilulissat–Copenhagen service on 29 October 2026, the same day the new airport in Ilulissat opens. The first flight will be operated by the airline’s A330neo, Tuukkaq. Until now, most journeys between North Greenland and Denmark have required a transfer in Nuuk, making this a notable change in how the region connects with Europe.
After the inaugural service, operations will temporarily pass to Jettime, which will fly the route with a Boeing 737-800 seating 180 passengers. This arrangement will remain in place until Air Greenland receives its Airbus A320neo, Unaaq, expected in spring 2027. The winter timetable extends the structure travellers already know, rather than introducing a completely new system.
“The new route strengthens accessibility to North Greenland, which we are pleased about as it ensures more direct connections for travellers and at the same time contributes to supporting both tourism and business."
Winter timetable details
- One direct Ilulissat–Copenhagen flight every Wednesday
- Two weekly flights during Christmas, New Year and 1–27 March 2027 (Mondays and Wednesdays)
- Connections via Nuuk on other weekdays
- Same-day links to Aasiaat, Uummannaq, Qaarsut and Upernavik on selected days
- Overnight stay required in Ilulissat for some Upernavik and all Qaanaaq journeys
Ilulissat is known for the UNESCO-listed Icefjord and the icebergs that fill Disko Bay, drawing visitors even in the depths of winter. Copenhagen, meanwhile, remains Greenland’s primary European gateway, linking the island with the wider continent. A direct winter service simplifies the journey between the Arctic town and Denmark’s capital, making trip planning more straightforward for visitors heading north.
A single weekly non-stop route may seem limited, yet in Arctic aviation it represents a meaningful shift. Fixed departures provide clarity in a region where weather already affects movement. With the opening of the new airport and the introduction of direct service, North Greenland gains a steadier connection to Europe while preserving its regional network.