Constable Pynt

Welcome to Constable Pynt, also known locally as Nerlerit Inaat, a remote and fascinating outpost located in the vast wilderness of the Arctic. Unlike typical tourist cities, this settlement primarily serves as a vital transportation hub and a gateway to some of the most isolated and spectacular landscapes on Earth. It offers a unique atmosphere of solitude and adventure, situated far from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

Geographically, the settlement is positioned on the eastern coast of Greenland, within the region of Jameson Land. It sits at the edge of the immense Hurry Inlet, surrounded by rugged mountains and tundra. The climate here is strictly High Arctic, characterized by cold winters and cool, short summers. With a very small permanent population consisting mostly of airport staff, it is a place where nature truly dominates the human footprint.

Although it was established relatively recently in 1985 to support oil exploration activities, the history of Constable Pynt has evolved, and it now plays a crucial role in connecting the outside world to East Greenland. Today, it serves as the primary point of arrival for travelers heading to the nearby village of Ittoqqortoormiit, one of the most isolated settlements on the globe.

For visitors, Constable Pynt offers an unparalleled entry point into the wild. It is the main gateway to the Northeast Greenland National Park, the largest national park in the world. The area is renowned for its rich wildlife, including musk oxen, Arctic hares, and occasionally polar bears, making it a dream destination for nature photographers and expedition enthusiasts. The surrounding landscapes of Jameson Land offer breathtaking views of untouched Arctic terrain.

Whether you are transiting to a remote village or embarking on a wilderness expedition, Constable Pynt marks the beginning of an unforgettable Arctic journey. We invite you to step off the beaten path and experience the raw, majestic beauty of this unique corner of the world.

The climate in this region is distinctly High Arctic, defined by persistent cold and minimal precipitation throughout the year. Travelers planning a trip should consult the detailed forecast for the weather in Constable Pynt to ensure they are adequately prepared for the harsh conditions. Generally, you can expect cool, short summers with very little rain and long, dry, and freezing winters.

Winter dominates the calendar, with temperatures staying well below freezing from September through May. March is typically the coldest month, recording an average temperature of -17.5°C and minimums dipping to around -19.9°C. Despite the biting cold, actual accumulation of snow is limited; precipitation levels are incredibly low, often staying between 1mm and 4mm per month, even though there may be frequent days with light precipitation.

The summer season is brief, spanning mainly from June to August, but it never gets truly hot. Even during the warmest month, July, the average temperature hovers around 3.2°C, and highs rarely exceed 5°C. This constant chill preserves the Arctic landscape, making warm, windproof clothing essential regardless of when you visit.

• A Town Without Citizens: Unlike traditional settlements, Constable Pynt has a permanent official population of zero. The "residents" are exclusively airport staff and support personnel who live on-site in shifts. It is effectively a functional enclave rather than a village, making it one of the few inhabited places on Earth dedicated entirely to maintaining a single transportation link.

• Built for Oil, Not Travel: The airport was not originally constructed for tourism or local transport. It was built in 1985 by the American oil company ARCO to support oil exploration in the Jameson Land region. It was only sold to the Greenlandic government in 1990, repurposing its industrial origins into a vital civilian lifeline.

• The "Road to Nowhere": While the airport serves the town of Ittoqqortoormiit, there is absolutely no road connecting the two. They are separated by approximately 40 kilometers of rugged terrain and water. The only way to reach the town is by a 15-minute helicopter ride or, for the adventurous, a boat transfer in summer or a snowmobile trek across the frozen fjord in winter.

• An Arctic Heat Trap: Despite its location at 70 degrees North, Constable Pynt has recorded surprisingly high temperatures. In July 2021, the thermometer soared to 23.2°C (73.8°F), a record-breaking figure for such a high latitude. The geography of Jameson Land can create a "heat trap" effect, occasionally making this one of the warmest spots in Greenland during the brief summer window.

• Musk Ox Territory: The airport is located in Jameson Land, an area known for having one of the densest populations of musk oxen in Greenland. It is not uncommon for passengers to spot these prehistoric-looking beasts grazing on the tundra just beyond the runway fences, offering an immediate wildlife safari upon landing.

Reaching this remote Arctic outpost is an adventure in itself, primarily relying on air travel due to the lack of road infrastructure connecting the region to the rest of Greenland. For a comprehensive overview of routes and logistics, you can read more about how to get to Constable Pynt.

The primary entry point for all travelers is Neerlerit Inaat Airport (CNP), which is located within the settlement of Constable Pynt itself. It is a small but vital hub, serving as the main lifeline for the area and the nearby town of Ittoqqortoormiit. The airport is situated approximately 2.1 km from the designated center of the settlement. With an annual passenger volume of around 3,500 people, it is a small regional facility that typically handles flights from Iceland (Akureyri or Reykjavik) and domestic connections from West Greenland.

For clarity, here is a summary of the main airport:

There are no railway networks in Greenland due to the rugged terrain and ice cap, so arriving by train is not an option. Travelers should be prepared to rely exclusively on airplanes for long-distance travel, followed by helicopter or boat transfers to reach surrounding destinations.

While Constable Pynt is primarily a logistics hub rather than a traditional tourist town, it sits in the heart of one of the world's most spectacular and untouched wilderness areas. The attractions here are not museums or monuments, but rather the dramatic landscapes and unique natural phenomena that surround the airfield. Visitors arriving here are immediately immersed in the raw beauty of East Greenland, with several key points of interest accessible directly from the area or via short transfers.

Jameson Land

The settlement is located on the Jameson Land peninsula, a geological anomaly in Greenland. Unlike much of the rugged coastline, this area is not covered by glaciers, revealing a vast, rolling tundra that is geologically fascinating. It is widely considered one of the best places in Greenland to spot musk oxen. These prehistoric-looking animals roam freely here, often visible grazing on the sparse vegetation against a backdrop of reddish sandstone mountains, offering an immediate wildlife safari for arrivals.

Hurry Inlet

Stretching alongside the runway is the majestic Hurry Inlet, a deep fjord that offers breathtaking scenery. In the summer months, the calm waters reflect the surrounding peaks and drifting ice, making it a starkly beautiful location for photography and contemplation. In winter, the inlet freezes solid, transforming into a natural highway for dog sleds and snowmobiles. The changing light over the fjord, especially during the midnight sun or the deep blues of polar twilight, creates an ethereal atmosphere that defines the region.

Ittoqqortoormiit

Although located approximately 40 kilometers away, the village of Ittoqqortoormiit is the primary cultural destination for travelers landing in Constable Pynt. Accessible via a short helicopter ride, this isolated community is famous for its colorful wooden houses perched on rocky slopes and its enduring hunting traditions. It offers a rare and authentic glimpse into High Arctic life, serving as the starting point for many dog sledding expeditions and sea kayaking adventures in the surrounding fjords.

Northeast Greenland National Park

Constable Pynt serves as a crucial southern gateway to the Northeast Greenland National Park, the largest national park in the world. While entering the deep interior requires permits and expedition planning, the proximity allows travelers to experience the fringe of this colossal wilderness. The area is a sanctuary for polar bears, walruses, and millions of seabirds, offering the ultimate experience for those seeking absolute solitude and untouched nature at the top of the globe.

Due to the unique nature of Constable Pynt as a remote airport settlement with no permanent civilian population, the local culinary scene is quite different from a typical tourist destination. There are no commercial restaurants, street food markets, or cafes in the traditional sense. Instead, dining here is a functional and communal experience, primarily centered around the airport's cafeteria and the guest house facilities that serve travelers, pilots, and station staff. However, the food often reflects the surrounding wilderness, offering a taste of the raw ingredients found in East Greenland.

The undisputed king of the local menu is musk ox. Since Constable Pynt is located in Jameson Land, home to one of the largest musk ox populations in Greenland, this lean, dark meat frequently appears in meals. It is renowned for its rich, savory flavor, often described as a blend between beef and venison. Travelers might encounter it served as a hearty steak, a warming stew, or even as dried meat (known locally as nikku), which serves as a high-energy snack perfect for the cold climate.

Another staple of the broader region is suaasat, Greenland's national soup. While the airport canteen may serve more westernized versions, this traditional dish is the heart of local sustenance. It is typically made from seal meat, though reindeer or seabirds can also be used, boiled with onions and potatoes. It is a thick, nutritious broth designed to provide warmth and energy, essential for survival in the High Arctic.

When it comes to beverages, the most refreshing drink is arguably the water itself. Sourced from nearby glacial streams or melted ice, the tap water here is some of the purest in the world. For something stronger to combat the Arctic chill, Greenlandic coffee is a popular treat in the region. This is not just a morning caffeine fix but a cocktail involving hot coffee, whiskey, Kahlua, and Grand Marnier, topped with whipped cream. It is traditionally set on fire before drinking, serving as a spectacular end to a meal.

Ultimately, the "food culture" in Constable Pynt is one of camaraderie and necessity. Meals are usually taken in the shared dining hall of the airport lodging, where travelers waiting for helicopter transfers to Ittoqqortoormiit mingle with geologists and airport staff. The atmosphere is informal and welcoming, with a focus on hearty, warming comfort food that prepares you for the onward journey into the wild.

Preparing for a trip to Constable Pynt requires a different mindset than visiting a standard tourist destination, as you are entering a remote High Arctic outpost rather than a bustling city. To ensure your journey through this isolated gateway is safe and comfortable, we have compiled a list of essential practical tips tailored to the unique conditions of East Greenland.

1. Clothing and Gear
   The weather here is unpredictable and often harsh, regardless of the season. You must dress in layers. Start with thermal base layers (wool is best), add a warm insulating middle layer, and finish with a high-quality windproof and waterproof outer shell. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are essential, as the terrain is rugged and often snowy. Don't forget a warm hat, gloves, and sunglasses, as the glare from the ice and snow can be intense even on cloudy days.

2. Transportation
   Constable Pynt does not have a public transport network; there are no metros, buses, or taxis here. The settlement is essentially an airport complex, so you will get around on foot between the terminal and the guest house. For onward travel to the town of Ittoqqortoormiit, you will rely exclusively on a helicopter transfer or, in specific seasons, a boat or snowmobile arranged by local tour operators. Always have your transfer booked well in advance.

3. Finances
   The currency used is the Danish Krone (DKK). It is critical to bring sufficient cash with you before arriving, as there are no ATMs or banks in Constable Pynt. While the airport kiosk may accept credit cards, connection issues can occur due to the remote location. Having cash is vital for small purchases or tipping during transfers.

4. Health and Safety
   There is no pharmacy or hospital in Constable Pynt; medical facilities are limited to basic first aid supplies at the airport. You must bring a complete supply of any personal prescription medications you need, along with a basic travel health kit. Safety is paramount here: this is polar bear territory. Never wander away from the settlement buildings alone or without a guide equipped with a rifle. Always stay within designated safe areas.

5. Communication
   The main languages spoken are West Greenlandic and Danish, but airport staff and pilots generally speak excellent English. Mobile phone coverage is provided by Tusass, but it may be limited or non-existent for international roaming depending on your provider. Wi-Fi might be available at the airport guest house, but it is often slow and expensive. It is wise to download offline maps and entertainment before you arrive.

6. Local Etiquette
   Constable Pynt is a workplace and home for the staff who keep the station running. Be respectful of their space and privacy. It is customary to remove your boots when entering accommodation buildings or private living quarters to keep the interiors clean from mud and snow. A friendly greeting and patience go a long way in this small community.

7. What to Avoid
   Avoid getting impatient with delays. Weather in this region changes rapidly, and flights or helicopter transfers are frequently postponed for safety reasons. Complaining loudly about the schedule is considered poor form; locals respect the weather above all else. Also, do not attempt to pet or approach any sled dogs you might see nearby; they are working animals, not pets.

8. Additional Tip
   Pack a "delay kit" in your carry-on luggage. Since getting stuck in Constable Pynt for a few hours (or even a day) due to fog or storms is a real possibility, having a good book, a power bank, and some snacks accessible will make the wait much more pleasant. Embrace the slow pace of the Arctic.

Visiting Constable Pynt is a true adventure into the wild, offering a glimpse of life at the edge of the habitable world. By packing wisely and respecting the raw nature of the environment, you will be perfectly positioned to enjoy the stunning silence and majestic scenery of this unique Arctic hub.

Travelers arriving in Constable Pynt expecting a vibrant urban nightlife scene with thumping bass and neon lights will be in for a surprise. As a remote airport settlement with no permanent civilian population, there are absolutely no nightclubs, cocktail bars, discos, or commercial entertainment districts here. The "nightlife" in this High Arctic outpost is defined not by parties, but by the profound silence of the wilderness and the spectacular natural light shows in the sky.

The primary form of evening entertainment during the winter months (September to April) is hunting for the Aurora Borealis. Located far from any light pollution, Constable Pynt offers some of the clearest and most intense views of the Northern Lights on the planet. Stepping just outside the accommodation buildings provides a front-row seat to dancing ribbons of green and purple. Conversely, during the summer, the Midnight Sun keeps the landscape illuminated 24 hours a day, creating a surreal atmosphere where "night" is merely a concept, and the sun never sets below the horizon.

Social life in Constable Pynt is concentrated entirely within the Nerlerit Inaat Airport complex. The Airport Cafeteria serves as the de facto community hub, bar, and lounge. Here, pilots, airport staff, and travelers waiting for helicopter transfers gather in the evenings to share stories, play cards, or enjoy a warm drink. The atmosphere is casual and communal; the "dress code" invariably consists of wool sweaters and thermal trousers. It is a place to swap tales of Arctic expeditions rather than to dance the night away.

Regarding alcohol and supplies, options are extremely limited. There are no liquor stores or supermarkets. The airport facility may offer a limited selection of beer or wine with meals, but prices can be high due to the logistics of importing goods. It is generally advisable for travelers to bring their own duty-free supplies if they wish to enjoy a specific drink during their stopover, though consumption is strictly confined to the guest house areas.

Safety is the most critical consideration for any nighttime activity here. You must never wander beyond the immediate vicinity of the airport buildings after dark. This is prime polar bear territory, and the animals are known to roam the darkness of the tundra. If you need to move between buildings at night, ensure you have a flashlight and, ideally, are accompanied by staff. There are no taxis or public transport; your feet are your only mode of transit, and walking alone into the dark is genuinely dangerous.

As for daytime entertainment, do not look for museums, theaters, or amusement parks, as none exist. The entertainment here is purely raw nature. Visitors often spend their layover hours scanning the surrounding Jameson Land tundra for musk oxen, which frequently graze near the runway. For those with a few hours to spare, short walks near the perimeter (always checking with staff for safety) offer incredible photographic opportunities of the Hurry Inlet and the stark, mountainous horizon.

Unlike traditional tourist destinations, Constable Pynt does not feature manicured city parks, botanical gardens, or brick-and-mortar museums. Instead, this remote outpost serves as a gateway to some of the most expansive and untouched natural reserves on the planet. The "parks" here are vast wildernesses without fences, and the "museums" are the living history of the Arctic landscape and the nearby settlements that preserve the region's heritage.

Northeast Greenland National Park

Constable Pynt sits on the southern edge of the Northeast Greenland National Park, which holds the title of the world's largest national park. Covering an area larger than France and Great Britain combined, this is a protected wilderness of colossal scale. There are no paved paths, ticket booths, or park rangers greeting you at a gate. Instead, it offers a raw, unfiltered experience of the High Arctic, home to polar bears, walruses, and thousands of musk oxen. It is a place of silence and grandeur, where the ice sheet meets the sea in a dramatic display of nature's power.

Jameson Land Tundra

The settlement is located within Jameson Land, a unique geological area that functions as a massive natural reserve. Unlike the steep, glaciated mountains typical of East Greenland, this area is characterized by rolling sandstone hills and vast open tundra. In summer, the ground transforms into a subtle garden of Arctic wildflowers, mosses, and lichens, providing a stark contrast to the barren ice. It is an exceptional area for hiking and wildlife observation, serving as a natural sanctuary for the region's dense musk ox population.

Ittoqqortoormiit Museum (Regional Culture)

Since Constable Pynt is strictly a transit hub with no permanent civilian community, it does not host its own museums. However, travelers passing through are typically en route to the nearby town of Ittoqqortoormiit, where the region's cultural heart beats. The local museum there is a key repository of East Greenlandic history, housed in one of the town's oldest buildings. It features photographs, traditional hunting tools, and costumes that tell the story of the hardy Inuit communities who have thrived in this harsh environment for centuries. It is the essential cultural companion to the natural wonders of the airport's surroundings.

The "Open-Air" Geology Gallery

In the absence of art galleries, the landscape around Constable Pynt serves as a geological exhibition. The cliffs and canyons of the Hurry Inlet display millions of years of Earth's history in their exposed rock strata. Geologists and photographers often view these formations as natural sculptures, carved by wind and ice over millennia. The play of light on the reddish sandstone and the white icebergs in the fjord creates a visual spectacle that rivals any curated art collection.

For an authentic experience, take a moment to simply stand at the edge of the settlement and listen. The absolute silence of the Arctic, broken only by the wind or the call of a raven, is a rare treasure. While you won't find a souvenir shop or a ticketed attraction, the profound sense of isolation and the pristine environment offer a connection to nature that is increasingly rare in the modern world.

When discussing the public transport system in Constable Pynt, it is essential to adjust expectations immediately. As this is a remote airport settlement rather than a traditional city, there is absolutely no conventional urban public transportation. You will not find subways, trams, city buses, or trolleybuses here. The infrastructure is designed exclusively to support aviation operations and the transfer of passengers to the nearby village of Ittoqqortoormiit.

The primary and practically only form of "public transport" connecting this hub to the nearest civilization is the scheduled helicopter service. Operated by the national carrier, this 15-minute flight acts as the local shuttle, bridging the 40-kilometer gap across the fjord to Ittoqqortoormiit. These flights are timed to connect with arriving fixed-wing aircraft. During the summer months, boat transfers may occasionally serve as an alternative, but the helicopter remains the standard mode of transit for locals and tourists alike.

Regarding payment and tickets, there are no travel cards, tap-to-pay terminals, or zone-based passes. Travel here is treated as aviation, not ground commuting. Tickets for the helicopter transfer must be purchased well in advance, typically as part of your broader flight itinerary. Prices are fixed and can be quite high due to the operational costs in the Arctic. You cannot buy a ticket from a driver or a machine upon arrival; everything is digital and must be secured before you land.

Within the settlement of Constable Pynt itself, the only way to get around is on foot. The area is small, consisting of the runway, the terminal building, and the guest house, all located within a few hundred meters of each other. There are no paved sidewalks, so you will be walking on gravel or hard-packed snow. Luggage carts are generally available near the terminal to help move heavy bags to the accommodation block.

Tourists looking for alternatives like taxis, ride-sharing apps, or car rentals will find none. There are no private commercial vehicles for hire. The few trucks and jeeps you see belong to the airport authority and are for operational use only. If you have arranged a specialized expedition, your tour operator might meet you with a snowmobile or dog sled in the winter, but these are private arrangements and not part of a public network.

A crucial piece of advice for navigating this system is to be prepared for delays. The "operating hours" of the transport network are entirely dictated by the weather. Fog or high winds can ground the helicopter shuttle for hours or even days. Travelers should always have a flexible schedule and keep their booking confirmation documents handy, either printed or saved offline on a phone, as internet connectivity for last-minute checks can be unreliable.

Finding accommodation in Constable Pynt requires a significant shift in expectations compared to typical travel destinations. As this location is primarily a remote airport facility (Nerlerit Inaat) rather than a residential town, there is no commercial hotel sector, luxury resorts, or network of backpacker hostels. The options are strictly functional, designed to house airport staff, pilots, and travelers in transit, rather than to serve leisure tourists seeking amenities.

The accommodation landscape is concentrated entirely within the airport complex. There are no "neighborhoods" or tourist districts to choose from; your location is determined by the proximity to the runway and the main terminal building. This setup ensures that travelers are safe and close to their transport connections in an environment where weather conditions can change rapidly.

The Airport Guesthouse

The primary and practically sole option for visitors staying overnight is the Nerlerit Inaat Airport Guesthouse. Located just a short walk from the terminal, this facility offers basic but comfortable lodging. Rooms are typically simple, often with shared bathrooms and communal living spaces. The atmosphere is akin to a research station or a base camp, fostering a sense of camaraderie among the few guests who are usually waiting for helicopter transfers to Ittoqqortoormiit or onward flights to Iceland.

Booking and Availability

Due to the extremely limited capacity—often fewer than 20 beds available for transients—booking in advance is not just recommended, it is mandatory. You will not find this property listed on standard global hotel booking platforms or apps. Reservations are typically managed directly through the airport authority, the airline (Air Greenland or Norlandair), or the tour operator organizing your expedition. It is common for accommodation to be arranged as part of a broader travel package.

Price Range and Tips

Despite the basic nature of the amenities, the cost of staying in Constable Pynt falls into the mid-to-high price range. This reflects the immense logistical challenges of maintaining heated, serviced facilities in the High Arctic. Travelers should be prepared to pay in Danish Krone (DKK). A crucial tip for anyone passing through is to confirm your accommodation status before boarding your flight to Greenland, especially if your connection to the nearby village is not immediate. If you are stuck due to weather, the airline usually assists, but space can fill up instantly.

For those looking to explore the surroundings, Constable Pynt serves as an excellent base for day trips to several interesting nearby locations:

Ittoqqortoormiit
Located approximately 40 kilometers from the airport, this is the only permanently inhabited settlement in the immediate vicinity and the primary destination for visitors. Accessible via a scenic 15-minute helicopter ride, Ittoqqortoormiit offers a genuine insight into traditional Inuit culture. Visitors can stroll among the brightly colored wooden houses, visit the local museum, and witness the daily life of a hunting community living on the edge of the world.

Hurry Inlet and Jameson Land
For nature enthusiasts, the "city" to visit is the wilderness itself. The area immediately surrounding Constable Pynt, known as Jameson Land, is ideal for short guided hikes or photography excursions. The shores of Hurry Inlet offer spectacular views of icebergs and the chance to spot musk oxen grazing on the tundra. Unlike the steep, glaciated terrain elsewhere, the rolling hills here are accessible and provide a unique opportunity to experience the High Arctic landscape up close.

Northeast Greenland National Park
While not a city, the southern boundary of the world's largest national park lies just north of the settlement. For those with arranged logistics, a day trip into the fringes of this protected zone offers unparalleled opportunities to see polar bears, walruses, and pristine untouched nature. It is a bucket-list experience for eco-tourists and adventurers stationed at the outpost.

These nearby destinations offer a glimpse into the diverse culture and landscapes of the region.

Shopping in Constable Pynt is strictly functional and extremely limited, reflecting its status as a remote airport outpost rather than a residential town or tourist resort. Travelers arriving here should adjust their expectations immediately: there are no boutiques, souvenir shops, or grocery stores. The retail experience is essentially confined to the basic amenities provided within the airport terminal to support passengers in transit.

Main Shopping Areas

There are no shopping streets or commercial districts in Constable Pynt. The entire "shopping" zone is contained within the small Nerlerit Inaat Airport terminal. Here, a small service kiosk or counter typically offers a very modest selection of goods. This is generally limited to travel necessities, snacks, soft drinks, and perhaps a small selection of reading materials. It serves as a lifeline for immediate needs rather than a place for browsing.

Shopping Malls

Visitors will not find any shopping malls, department stores, or fashion outlets in this High Arctic wilderness. The infrastructure is built solely for aviation and logistics. If you need specialized gear, clothing, or electronics, it is absolutely essential to purchase these items in larger hubs like Reykjavik or Akureyri before your arrival in Greenland.

Markets

There are no food markets, flea markets, or craft bazaars in Constable Pynt. The settlement does not have a local population to sustain such trade. However, travelers continuing their journey to the nearby town of Ittoqqortoormiit will find a small local store (Pilersuisoq) there, which acts as the general supplier for the community, though it is still not a "market" in the traditional tourist sense.

Souvenirs

Finding souvenirs directly in Constable Pynt is difficult. The airport kiosk may occasionally stock a few postcards or small trinkets, but the selection is minimal. Authentic Greenlandic handicrafts, such as tupilaks (carved figures) or beadwork, are best sought in the village of Ittoqqortoormiit if your itinerary takes you there. For those only transiting through the airport, the best "souvenir" is often the unique stamp in your passport or the photos taken of the surrounding landscape.

Opening Hours and Payment

The limited sales facilities at the airport operate strictly according to the flight schedule. If there are no flights landing or taking off, the counters are likely to be closed. In terms of payment, the Danish Krone (DKK) is the official currency. Cash is king in this remote location. While credit cards might be accepted, connection reliability can be sporadic due to the satellite links. It is highly recommended to carry sufficient cash for any small purchases.

Tax-Free

Due to the lack of dedicated retail stores, there is no formal tax-free shopping or VAT refund system available for tourists in Constable Pynt. Any duty-free goods (such as alcohol or tobacco) should be purchased at your point of departure before flying into Greenland.