Maniitsoq is currently experiencing significant challenges with air service. Following the opening of the new international airport in Nuuk, flights to Maniitsoq have been significantly reduced. Changes in Air Greenland’s schedule mean that there is now only one daily weekday departure between Maniitsoq and Nuuk – with varying departure times and limited opportunities for onward connections. This creates significant problems for businesses, citizens, and public functions in the area.
According to Arctic Circle Business and Maniitsoq Airport, the current structure has already had concrete consequences. Travelers to and from Denmark and other international destinations often have to stay overnight in Nuuk, which entails extra costs and loss of working hours. At the same time, the business community in Maniitsoq is hit hard – especially the growing trawler and fishing sector, which needs rapid crew changes and timely delivery of spare parts and equipment. Deliveries that previously could be made within 1–2 days have now become both uncertain and delayed.
The challenges are reinforced by the fact that Maniitsoq Port has just been completed and is ready to receive larger trawlers. Without stable and predictable air connections, the town risks losing both business and socio-economic opportunities – precisely in a period when the infrastructure otherwise supports growth and new investments.
Arctic Circle Business and Maniitsoq Airport therefore propose that efforts be made towards a more differentiated and stable schedule. Specifically, two daily departures between Maniitsoq and Nuuk on weekdays are recommended – one in the morning and one in the afternoon – possibly with a seasonal division between summer and winter. Such a model would strengthen connections for business travelers, tourists, and freight alike, while ensuring better utilization of capacity.
Dialogue with Air Greenland is already underway. The company has pointed out that the current capacity, in their assessment, matches historical demand. At the same time, supplementary initiatives have been launched, including cooperation on boat transport between Maniitsoq and Nuuk in the summer season. Arctic Circle Business acknowledges these measures but emphasizes that they cannot replace the need for stable and predictable air connections – especially not for business, official travel, and critical freight.
Arctic Circle Business will continue to contribute constructively to the dialogue and is now working to shed broader public light on the matter. The goal is to find solutions that take into account both commercial conditions and the regional development in Qeqqata Kommunia, where well-functioning air transport is a prerequisite for growth, settlement, and business development.
For further information:
Arctic Circle Business
Naasunnguaq Beck Kristensen, 863500 and naasu@acb.gl
