Agreement on Air Traffic Control Signed in Nuuk

by Heiner Kubny
12/28/2025
In light of Nuuk’s growth as Greenland’s commercial and administrative center, as well as increasing tourism, there was a need for improved flight connections to the capital. The previously required transfer in Kangerlussuaq for most international flights has now been eliminated. (Photo: onemileatatime)

Greenland Airports and the Danish state-owned air navigation service provider Naviair have officially signed their agreement on the future provision of air traffic control at Nuuk Airport. As announced in advance, Naviair will assume responsibility for providing air traffic controllers for Nuuk Airport. The background to this move is the need to expand air traffic control services at the capital’s airport in order to meet growing demands in air traffic.

The new runway, with a length of 3,200 meters, was opened on November 28, 2024. Following this, Air Greenland relocated its hub from Kangerlussuaq Airport to Nuuk. (Photo: Wikipedia)

“This agreement is an investment in the future. The new air traffic control solution creates a solid foundation for growth and efficiency at Nuuk Airport. We have great confidence in Naviair’s expertise and look forward to a good cooperation,” said Jens Lauridsen, CEO of Greenland Airports.

At the core of the agreement is the introduction of a so-called TMA solution (Terminal Maneuvering Area), also known as shared air traffic control. Under this system, air traffic controllers monitor aircraft up to a defined handover point. After that, the existing AFIS services in Nuuk take over. AFIS operators do not issue direct instructions but provide pilots with relevant flight information.

Nuuk Airport is an international airport serving Greenland’s capital. It functions as a hub and technical base for Air Greenland. International routes are served year-round by Icelandair and seasonally by SAS and United Airlines. (Photo: Pexels)

The new air traffic control system is expected to become operational in May 2026. According to Greenland Airports, this should also lift the capacity restrictions introduced by the Danish Transport Authority in September. The aim is to significantly increase the airport’s handling capacity without compromising safety.

Naviair brings extensive experience in Greenlandic airspace and is already responsible for air traffic control at several major Danish airports. The company is fully state-owned.

“We are very pleased to be able to contribute to the future traffic management at Nuuk Airport, for the benefit of airspace users and the Greenlandic population. Naviair has been providing air traffic services in Greenland for many years, and we look forward with great anticipation to continuing and expanding the good cooperation with Greenland’s airports,” said Naviair CEO Anders Rex.

The companies did not disclose any information regarding the costs or financing of the new air traffic control solution.

Heiner Kubny, PolarJournal