Local transportation
Air support
Kangerlussuaq is a large airport with significant capacity for visiting aircraft. It has the most stable weather in Greenland and there are very few days when aircraft are unable to take off or land. This is why the SAR helicopters are stationed here and is why it has served as the primary international airport for Greenland until 2024.
There are several air support options available:
- Air Greenland Charter – helicopters that are not specifically dedicated to fieldwork. The Eurocopter AS 350 has a maximum take-off weight of 2,250t and can carry up to 5 passengers
- Norlandair – Icelandic company with planes adapted to rough terrain and with skis for landing on snow/ice. The Twin Otter planes have a maximum take-off weight of 5,5t and can carry up to 10 passengers
- Bring your own plane or helicopter – particularly if specialized configurations are required. Contact the airport manager (Ivaaq Christensen, ipec@airports.gl) to discuss accommodating your aircraft at Kangerlussuaq airport.
Car Rental
The road infrastructure around Kangerlussuaq makes it very easy for field workers to access different terrestrial ecosystems as well as the edge of the Greenland Ice Sheet. The Ice Road is generally open all year (though may be temporarily closed after adverse weather), and it is possible to rent a car or larger vehicle in town:
- for a car without a driver: JMM Gruppen
- for a car with a driver: Albatros Arctic Circle, Arctic Ice Tours, Kang Mini Tours, or Tundra Adventures.
- for a bus with a driver: Albatros Arctic Circle
- for a truck with a driver: Entreprenørservice SFJ
Boat charter
During the summer, the Kangerlussuaq fjord is free of ice for those who need access to the fjord system. There are two boat charter options:
These companies have the requisite permits to sail with passengers and are accustomed to supporting researchers and other visitors to the area. Do not sail with a company who does not have a passenger permit.
