The opening of Ilulissat’s new international airport marks the end of the airport package with new airports in Nuuk, Qaqortoq and Ilulissat. It creates new opportunities for tourism, business and international relations, says Naalakkersuisoq for infrastructure, Iddimanngiiu Jensen Bianco (IA).
Today marks the opening of Ilulissat’s new international airport an important milestone for Greenland. With a direct flight connection from Copenhagen and a 2,200 meter long runway, the airport opens up new opportunities for tourism, business and travel between North Greenland and the rest of the world.
This is emphasized by Naalakkersuisoq for housing, infrastructure, outer districts and preparedness, Iddimanngiiu Jensen Bianco (IA), in his speech at the opening at Copenhagen airport on Thursday morning.
– With the new airport, it will not only be easier to travel between North Greenland and Denmark. The whole world is opening up to North Greenland, she said, adding:
– It will be important for business, tourists, education seekers and not least for citizens who need treatment in the Danish health system.
Aviation is crucial for Greenland
In Greenland, aviation plays a special role because there are no road connections between the cities and because the long distances place special demands on the transport system.
Air connections are therefore not only important for tourism and passenger traffic. They also connect families and friends and play a central role in education, workplaces, business and public services.
But even if the infrastructure is now established, it requires a joint effort to take advantage of the opportunities.
– The airport creates the framework. It is our shared responsibility to seize the opportunities that come, she said.
Thanks to business partners
The airport package has been the subject of extensive debate over the years. With the opening in Ilulissat, the three airport projects have now been completed.
In his speech, Iddimanngiiu Jensen Bianco thanked the many employees, contractors, advisers, authorities, local companies, Avannaata Kommunia and Greenland Airports who have contributed to the projects.
She also thanked the Danish governments and members of the Danish Parliament for their contribution to the realization of the airports in Nuuk and Ilulissat.
With the agreement from 2018, the Danish state contributed capital and access to loan financing. According to naalakkersuisoq, the support has had a significant impact on the implementation of the projects.
In addition, she highlighted Greenland Airports’ director, Jens Lauridsen, for his central role in the work with the airport projects prior to his resignation as director.
Now the daily operation begins
With the opening day, a new phase follows, where the focus shifts from construction work to operation.
In future, the airport must handle passengers and air traffic safely and efficiently, while the opportunities for tourism and business development must be translated into concrete results.
– Because when the opening day is over, everyday life begins, said Iddimanngiiu Jensen Bianco.
She ended her speech by congratulating Copenhagen, Ilulissat, Avannaata Kommunia and all of Greenland with the new airport.
– Congratulations to Copenhagen – to Ilulissat. Congratulations to Avannaata Kommunia. And congratulations to all of Greenland. Qujanaq.
