Building new airports in Greenland

Building New Airports in Greenland: Key Considerations and Potential Locations

Developing new airports in Greenland requires careful planning, taking into account factors like climate conditions, economic feasibility, local community interests, and regional development strategies. Here are some potential locations for new airports:

1. Northwest Greenland (Thule, Qaanaaq)

Investing in infrastructure in this remote part of Greenland could provide a significant boost to tourism and Arctic research. Better connectivity would support scientific expeditions and attract visitors to the unique landscapes of the far north.

2. West Coast (Ilulissat, Disko Bay)

This area is already a popular tourist destination due to its icebergs and fjords. Enhanced accessibility could help increase the number of tourists visiting, making it a prime candidate for airport development to support the growing demand.

3. Southwest Greenland (Nuuk, Qeqertarsuaq)

With Nuuk’s existing airport and its strategic position, the development of an aviation hub in this area could support cargo transport and improve connections with Europe. This would facilitate trade and enhance the region’s economic potential.

4. Southeast Greenland (Tasiilaq, Kulusuk)

This region stands to benefit from improved aviation infrastructure, especially as tourism and mineral extraction are expected to expand. Greater connectivity would make it easier to access Greenland’s rich resources and promote its natural beauty.

5. Central Greenland (Inland Areas)

Although currently unlikely, future climate changes and advancements in airfield construction technology might open the door for new routes across the ice sheet, connecting the central region with other parts of Greenland and the world.

Challenges and Considerations

The main challenges of building airports in Greenland include:

  • Harsh weather conditions

  • Remoteness

  • High construction costs

  • Environmental impact

However, developing aviation infrastructure would significantly enhance Greenland’s economy and quality of life by improving access to trade, tourism, and other resources.

Estimated Costs of Building an Airport

The cost of constructing an intermediate airport varies greatly depending on factors such as location, infrastructure, materials, and climate conditions. Based on recent airport construction projects, here is a rough estimate:

Approximate Cost Range

  • Remote or extreme climate areas (e.g., Greenland, Arctic regions): $300 million – $1 billion+

  • Due to challenges like permafrost, harsh weather, and logistical difficulties, costs can be 2–3 times higher than those in temperate regions.

  • This estimate includes a 2,000–3,000-meter runway, terminal, control tower, and basic facilities for commercial and cargo operations.

Given Greenland’s challenging terrain, extreme weather, and logistical challenges in transporting materials and labor, the cost of building airports in the region would likely be on the higher end. Recent airport expansion projects in Nuuk, Ilulissat, and Qaqortoq were estimated to cost around $400 million – $600 million each.