The new aircraft will ensure continued growth in tourism in Greenland

The Greenlandic airline Air Greenland has made its biggest investment ever and ordered the new Airbus A330-800neo. The new aircraft will be delivered in 2021. This will result in more seats and increased freight capacity to and from Greenland.

Air Greenland has entered a large three-digit million agreement with aircraft manufacturer Airbus on delivery of a new A330-800neo, which is expected to be in route from 2021. The aircraft is expected to fly primarily between Copenhagen Airport and the new International Airports in Nuuk and Ilulissat.

The acquisition is Air Greenland's largest investment ever and shall ensure that the airline is competitive in the future in order to generate growth in tourism, business exports and at the same time reduce the climate impact.

“Greenland has an unfulfilled business potential regarding tourism, which can create both development and jobs. Combined with new runways in Nuuk and Ilulissat, we will unlock Greenland in a whole new way that will increase tourism and create growth, ”says Chairman of the Board Kjeld Zacho Jørgensen, who expects double-digit growth in tourism when the new aircraft is in operation.

In 2019, the Greenlandic Government took over all shares in Air Greenland and therefore the investment also pleased Greenland's Premier of Greenland, Kim Kielsen.

“I am very pleased that Air Greenland, under the ownership of the Greenlandic Government, now prepare for the future by renewing the aircraft fleet. We are investing heavily in new infrastructure these years, and it is extremely positive that Air Greenland, with this investment in new aircraft, seizes the opportunities and in this way helps to ensure development and growth for the future, ”says Premier of Greenland Kim Kielsen.

At the same time, the increased freight capacity means that Greenlandic companies are facilitated by selling their goods abroad. This applies not least to fresh fish, which will be able to reach consumers faster in the future.

Several direct routes to Greenland

The new aircraft will mean more direct routes to Greenland in the future.

In addition to the direct route between Copenhagen and Nuuk, Air Greenland opens another brand new direct route to Ilulissat in the Disko Bay, which is one of the most popular and sought destinations among tourists. However, the route is first expected to be established after the opening of Ilulissat's new international airport.

“Greater capacity and more routes will mean reduced travel times and lower fares for our customers in the future. Travelers will experience better comfort in the new cabin, and the latest technology makes us the market leader in reducing CO2 emissions per passenger. We are proud of this investment, which will contribute positively to Greenland's development for many years to come, "says Air Greenland CEO Jacob Nitter Sørensen, who expects a direct route from Copenhagen to Ilulissat, which in 2023 will have a new international airport.